The future of Broke’s much-loved parklands has reached its final stage of consultation, with the community invited to review and comment on the draft Plan of Management for McNamara Park, Stewart McTaggart Park and Herbert Park.
Rich in Indigenous and European history and nestled along the banks of Wollombi Brook on Wonnarua, Wanaruah Country, the three parks are central to village life in Broke — providing open space for community events, recreation, remembrance and connection.
Developed in line with relevant state legislation, the draft Broke Crown Lands Plan of Management has been shaped through extensive consultation with local user groups, the wider community and Singleton Council staff. The plan has now received Ministerial Consent from the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment and will be placed on public exhibition from 9 February – 26 March 2026.
A drop-in information session will also be held at Broke Community Hall on Monday 2 March from 6pm to 8.30pm, where residents can learn more about the plan, ask questions and provide feedback.
Conor Byrne, Singleton Council’s Manager Infrastructure Services said the draft plan would guide how the parks are managed, developed and enjoyed into the future.
“These parklands cover almost 20 hectares of Crown land managed by Council and play an important role in Broke’s identity,” he said.
“The draft Plan of Management provides a clear framework to protect the character and heritage of these spaces, while ensuring they continue to meet the needs of the community — now and for generations to come.”
The parks collectively feature a village green, primitive camping, event and gathering spaces, skate park, war memorial, Rural Fire Service shed and open areas for informal recreation, all within a landscape shaped by thousands of years of Aboriginal significance and early European settlement.
Mr Byrne said community input had been vital throughout the planning process.
“This exhibition is the final opportunity for the community to review the draft plan and ensure it truly reflects local values, aspirations and priorities before it is presented to Council for adoption,” he said.
The Draft Crown Lands at Broke Plan of Management is available for public comment until 26 March 2026 and can be viewed online at www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/publicexhibition or in hard copy at the Singleton Council Administration Building, Singleton Library and Singleton Visitor Information Centre. All interested residents are encouraged to review the draft and have their say.
Image: Singleton Council’s Manager Infrastructure Services Conor Byrne at McNamara Park in Broke.