Thanks for having your say!

In 2017, we asked for your thoughts on the future of the Supercars track - whether you'd prefer it returfed to create open greenspace or if we should explore adding temporary elements to activate the space.

Following your support, we created a temporary activation space with flexible elements that could be easily removed for major events. With something for everyone, these features have become well-loved parts of this iconic site.

Now that Supercars has concluded, we’re required to develop a plan to rectify Camp Shortland. As part of this process, we once again reached out to the community to understand what matters most to you. Through recent consultation, we asked whether there are any elements you’d like to see retained, and your feedback will help shape the next chapter of this space.

Between 17 April and 6 June 2025, we invited you to share your feedback by:

  • Viewing the information available on this page
  • Providing your feedback via the survey available (now closed)
  • Speaking to our team at a pop-up event.

Your feedback on this project will help us determine if we retain any of the following elements:

  • Half basketball court
  • Exercise combination 1 - push-up / sit-up / box jump / bench
  • Exercise combination 2 - balance bar / steps
  • Exercise combination 3 - pull-up / chin-up / dips / monkey bars
  • Kids play climber
  • Hop scotch
  • Maze
  • Sprint track

There are some things that you are not able to influence for Camp Shortland, these include:

  • Upgrades to existing infrastructure
    Regardless of element retention, existing infrastructure will be upgraded including BBQs, seating and shelters, with additional trees to be planted. Historical signage will also be developed in consultation with Environment and Heritage NSW.
  • Horseshoe Beach
    We acknowledge the concerns surrounding illegal camping at Horseshoe Beach. While we take these issues seriously, it’s important to note that City of Newcastle is not the responsible authority for these matters. The site is owned and managed by Transport for NSW. State Government laws do not provide councils with the regulatory powers to move on overnight campers, this is the responsibility of NSW Police. We try to take a compassionate approach to people living rough and work with the locally based agencies to support solutions that enhance the safety and wellbeing of our community.
  • Trial pedestrian crossing on Horseshoe Beach Road
    We are installing a trial pedestrian crossing on Horseshoe Beach Road, adjacent to the site. The location and crossing type for this trial has already been determined.
  • Additional infrastructure
    We are unable to consider significant changes to the site. A significant change might include the addition of a playground or amenities block. This is due to heritage requirements, other infrastructure in close proximity and operational needs.
  • Upgrades in surrounding areas
    We are only looking to rectify the Camp Shortland site. Any works beyond this location are outside of scope for this project. View the related projects to find out more about other projects in the area.
  • Timing
    With this site being state heritage listed, there are a number of additional assessments required before we begin construction. Funding for the rectification works will be confirmed when consultation is complete, and project scope is finalised.
A City of Newcastle marquee set up outdoors at Nobbys Beach at sunrise. City of Newcastle staff are seen engaging in conversation with a local running club and others passing by.
A City of Newcastle marquee set up outdoors at The Station. City of Newcastle staff are seen engaging in conversation with market attendees, in front of project signage..
A table set up indoors at NUSPACE. City of Newcastle staff are seen engaging in conversation with students.

What we heard

You can find out more about what we heard through the community engagement by viewing our Engagement Summary Report which provides a high-level summary of what we heard, if you want more detail - you can read the Detailed Engagement Report.

Key highlights of the report are:

Next steps

We know that the best outcomes are generated when we work together. Your feedback is essential in shaping this next phase of the design. As we move forward, we'll need to consider a wide range of perspectives alongside the social, cultural, financial, environmental, heritage and technical constraints.

Your feedback will be vital in making changes to the landscape plan. This is a technical document, required by NSW Environment and Heritage (NSWEH). Once this plan has been refined, we will then consult with NSWEH to seek their feedback.

There will be another opportunity to have your say on the plan, so we can ensure it meets the community’s needs for Camp Shortland, before it is submitted to NSWEH for final endorsement.

We will continue to keep the community updated as the project progresses.

Background

Camp Shortland has long been a valued community space. In recent years, temporary elements were introduced to activate the area while maintaining flexibility for major events. These features, designed with community input have become popular and well-used.

With the conclusion of Supercars, we’re now required to restore the site. This includes upgrading existing infrastructure such as BBQs, shelters, seating and historical signage to enhance the space’s functionality and appeal.

As we incorporate community feedback and plan for the future, we’ll also explore green solutions that contribute to a cooler, more resilient environment while helping to mitigate vandalism risks.

What's there now?

Click below to discover what temporary elements are currently at Camp Shortland.