Arakwal National Park, Nature reserve in Byron Shire Council, Australia
Arakwal National Park is a nature reserve along the Byron Shire coast that stretches for about three kilometers across Tallow Beach and includes surrounding sand dunes and coastal heathland. The landscape is defined by nearby Cape Byron Lighthouse and contains several different habitats with varied plant communities.
The protected area was established in 2001 through a land agreement between the New South Wales government and the Arakwal Aboriginal Community. This agreement marked a significant step in recognizing the Bundjalung People's rights and knowledge in managing their traditional coastal lands.
The Bundjalung People maintain a strong connection to this coastal land and hold important roles in making decisions about how the park is managed. Their involvement reflects the deep relationship between this community and the environment they have inhabited for generations.
The beach is accessible for swimming, surfing, and fishing, while the coastal waters offer good opportunities for whale watching. Time your visit according to the season, as whales pass along the coast during specific periods.
The area contains specialized habitats where several rare native frog species depend on the particular conditions found here. These amphibians are tied to the specific features of the Wallum landscape, making this coastal strip an important refuge for their survival.
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