About NPA
National Parks Association of NSW (NPANSW)
The NPA was founded in 1957 on the conviction that humanity has a deep need for, and responsibility towards, natural places and all of the biodiversity, ecosystems, waters, landforms and heritage they contain.
NPA has 16 branches throughout New South Wales, run by dedicated volunteers who care deeply about nature. Branches differ in the types of activities and functions they fulfil but all are focused on enjoying and protecting our wonderful landscapes.
We derive our strength from our members and supporters, share knowledge and experience of nature enthusiastically and have a commitment to evidence-based research.
We respect that all land in NSW is Aboriginal land and acknowledge First Nations peoples’ continuing custodianship and connection to the land and waterways.
Our mission is to protect nature through community action.
Donations to NPANSW are tax deductible.
“Regional environmental advocacy can create powerful narratives that resonate far beyond geographic boundaries, reminding us all to pause and truly listen to nature's voice.”
NPANSW President Liz Jeremy
The Coffs Coast Branch
The NPA’s Coffs Coast Branch operates on the Mid North Coast in the Coffs Harbour surrounds, Bellingen Shire, Nambucca Valley and parts of Clarence Valley local government areas.
This is a region renowned for its outstanding natural values, biodiversity, scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.
Branch members enjoy access to a wide range of activities.
We are a friendly easy going group with a wide range of skills and backgrounds. New members are always welcome! Join NPA today and be part of the Coffs Coast branch.
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Bushwalking has the benefits of exercise and connecting with the natural environment.
Bushwalking with NPA fosters appreciation of the rich environment of Gumbaynggirr Country and support for our National Parks plus the pleasure of sharing enjoyable bushwalks with the group.
Favourite walks include Bongil Bongil National Park trails where old growth forest stands tall, Dorrigo Rainforest Centre with trails along pristine, high creeks and waterfalls, whale watching at Woolgoolga, the Solitary Islands great walk seascape, Yuraygir National Park heathland colours and Yarriahappini Mountain to Sea trail.
NPANSW is developing a phone app that will put its statewide bushwalking program at your fingertips, but for now the bushwalking calendar, which includes Coffs Coast Branch walks can be viewed at https://bushwalk.npansw.org.au/calendar-view.
To book to join a Coffs Coast Branch walk please email coffs@npansw.org.au or register to sign up to the branch here.
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Join us in searching for threatened plants and animals in the Coffs Coast region and be part of building local records and knowledge to help improve conservation and land management practices.
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Join members in preparing submissions that advocate for the management of National Parks and Reserves and the creation of new parks and reserves, helping shape positive environmental outcomes for the future.
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We have a fantastic market stall and team, popping up at various regional markets and events throughout the year, selling merchandise and raising awareness of NPA’s environmental campaigns. We’d love you to join us.
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Join fellow members in campaigning and lobbying for environmental protection, helping to safeguard the unique natural landscapes of the Coffs Coast for future generations.
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Support and take part in grant-funded projects, with our branch securing funding each year to deliver inspiring nature-based initiatives that benefit the Coffs Coast environment and community.
The Coffs Coast
The Coffs Coast is home to richly diverse landscapes and ecosystems. Subtropical and warm temperate rainforests, including parts of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia along with sclerophyll forests play a crucial role in maintaining healthy water catchments, protecting soils and providing critical habitat for threatened species.
The region is also home to the Solitary Islands Marine Park, where warm tropical currents meet cooler temperate waters to create one of Australia’s most biologically rich marine environments. Coral reefs, seagrass beds, rocky shores, and estuaries support a wealth of marine life, including migratory whales, dolphins, seabirds and threatened shorebirds.
On land, the Coffs Coast supports exceptional biodiversity, with more than 370 threatened species recorded in the broader NSW North Coast bioregion. A key conservation priority is the koala, with the Coffs Harbour area home to one of NSW’s most significant populations.
This landscape is also Gumbaynggirr Country, home to one of the largest coastal Aboriginal Nations in New South Wales. The Gumbaynggirr people maintain a living cultural connection to the land; its forests, rivers, estuary and marine environments. Traditional knowledge continues to guide caring for Country. Sacred sites, songlines and language are embedded across the region, reinforcing its cultural as well as ecological importance.
Become a member
Membership of the National Parks Association is open to everyone.
When you join NPA for a small fee, you become part of the National Parks Association of NSW, and your postcode automatically connects you with your local branch.
If you’re in the Coffs Harbour area, Bellingen Valley, Nambucca Valley, or parts of the Clarence Valley region, you will be automatically connected with our Coffs Coast branch and added to our list of up and coming events.
Do I need to be a paid member to be involved in the Coffs Cost Branch?
No you don’t need to be a paid member, there are lots of ways you can be a part of what’s on, so be sure to sign up to our monthly news to stay in touch. Or follow us on our social channels.
