New boardwalk brings bushland and Aboriginal heritage to life

Published on 13 November 2025

Ku-ring-gai Council has officially opened the newly upgraded Banks Track at the Wildflower Garden. 

One of the most popular walks in the Wildflower Garden, the Banks Track was upgraded to improve safety and accessibility while protecting the natural environment, thanks to a $1 million grant from the NSW Government.

Located in St Ives, the Wildflower Garden is one of Sydney's best kept secrets, set across 123 hectares of pristine untouched bushland with bush trails, picnic areas, nature play space and a nursery. Entry is free all year round.  

The revamped track features a modern boardwalk and sandstone pathway connecting Lamberts Clearing picnic area with Caley’s Pavilion, the Garden’s function centre. The surrounding bushland has also received additional protection for endangered species including the Eastern Pygmy Possum.  

Ku-ring-gai Mayor Christine Kay said the new boardwalk had made one of Ku-ring-gai’s most treasured natural spaces even better. 

“The upgraded boardwalk makes our Wildflower Garden accessible to everyone while protecting and preserving our unique and precious bushland,” Mayor Kay said. 

“Constructed from durable recycled plastic, the boardwalk blends seamlessly with the surrounding natural environment, and new interpretive signage provides fascinating information about the cultural significance of this special site. 

“The project was made possible through a $1 million grant from the NSW Government’s Places to Roam Regional Trails Program, and we are grateful for their support.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the Banks Track in the Wildflower Garden is a wonderful example the NSW Government helping communities create more accessible, sustainable and enjoyable public spaces.

“This million-dollar investment has delivered lasting improvements to one of Ku-ring-gai’s most popular bushwalks, enhancing safety and accessibility while protecting the surrounding environment and endangered species such as the Eastern Pygmy Possum.”

“The new boardwalk and interpretive signage will give visitors connection to the area’s rich Aboriginal heritage.”

The interpretive signage showcases the area’s rich Indigenous heritage and native flora and fauna. Visitors can scan a QR code to watch a video featuring Aboriginal Elder Brendan Kerin, who shares stories about the plants and animals along the track.

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Enquiries: media@krg.nsw.gov.au or 9424 0000