Port Stephens Council is introducing a free shuttle bus service this summer to help ease traffic congestion and improve access to the region’s most popular holiday destinations.
The Tomaree Shuttle will be trialled from 24 December 2025 to 6 January 2026, running daily from 9am to 4pm (excluding Christmas Day). The shuttle will operate a continuous loop between Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Tomaree Headland, and Fingal Bay approximately every 30 minutes, providing a quick, convenient, and stress-free alternative to finding limited parking near the beach.
Tomaree Headland and the Shoal Bay area routinely attract large numbers of visitors over summer, contributing significantly to the local economy but also creating congestion and longer travel times.
Last summer, Shoal Bay welcomed more than 29,000 visitors, bringing an estimated $3.7 million into Port Stephens.
Mayor Leah Anderson said the trial demonstrates Council’s proactive approach to managing high-demand periods and reflects what the community has been asking for.
“We know how popular these areas are and how limited the parking can be. This free shuttle makes it easier for families and visitors to enjoy their day without the stress of traffic delays or trying to find a parking spot,” Mayor Anderson said.
Port Stephens Councillor Mark Watson, who put forward the Notice of Motion, said the community has been calling for practical solutions on the Tomaree Headland for many years.
‘We know our local community are frustrated by traffic delays and that’s why I recommended Council trial a holiday shuttle, to give people a simple, reliable and cost-effective way to get around,” Councillor Watson said.
“This new free service has the potential to reduce congestion, ease parking pressure and decrease the number of cars on the road during peak season. It’s a safe and convenient way to reach popular destinations without the parking hassle,” Councillor Watson added.
Jo Thomas, Chief Executive Officer of Destination Port Stephens welcomed the proactive service that will enhance the visitor experience and safety.
“Destination Port Stephens welcomes the introduction of the free holiday shuttle and applauds Port Stephens Council for this proactive initiative to enhance both visitor experience and safety during one of our busiest times of the year,” Ms Thomas said.
“Shoal Bay and the Tomaree Headland are among the most breathtaking parts of our region. This is a fantastic step toward improving accessibility, protecting our environment, and ensuring everyone can experience the very best of Port Stephens this summer,” Ms Thomas added.
The trial program is funded from Shoal Bay smart parking revenue and is part of our commitment to reinvest in local projects. The trial sits along a range of actions such as carpark improvements and new shared pathways committed to in the Shoal Bay Place Plan.
Council will use insights from the trial to assess the effectiveness of the service to inform future planning for the Tomaree Headland.
Council encourages everyone to hop on board and enjoy a stress-free holiday period exploring the beautiful Tomaree Headland and surrounding areas.
For more information, visit https://pscouncil.info/shuttle-bus.
