Talus Reserve ownership transfers to NSW Aboriginal Land Council

Last modified on 13 January 2022

Willoughby City Council welcomes the momentous decision to transfer land ownership of Talus Street Reserve, Naremburn to the NSW Aboriginal Land Council under the Aboriginal Lands Rights Act.

The decision by former Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Rob Stokes MP, transfers land ownership of Talus Reserve, including the tennis facilities, from the Crown to the Metropolitan Land Council, where it will be transferred over the coming months to the Land Council. This process is expected to take six to 12 months.

Willoughby City Council managed and maintained the Reserve as the Crown Reserve Manager, and this role will cease with the transfer to the Land Council.

Public access to bush tracks and stormwater management remains unchanged by the decision. The land grant excluded small areas of land deemed necessary for essential public purpose – including public walkways, road access and stormwater drainage – which will remain accessible for Council to manage for public purpose, either as Crown Land or as an easement, granted by the Land Council.

Mayor of Willoughby, Cr Tanya Taylor, expressed the Council’s resounding support, “We respect and support the NSW Government’s decision to grant the claim made by the Land Council as the owners and custodians of this beautiful land. Willoughby Council is committed to working collaboratively and positively with the Land Council to ensure a smooth transition,” Mayor Taylor said.

“On behalf of the community, Council acknowledges the rich indigenous history of the Gammeraygal people in the area. The transfer will embed this significant indigenous heritage, drive cultural and social outcomes as it affirms Aboriginal Land Rights and supports reconciliation,” added Mayor Taylor.   

Talus Street Reserve, at the headwater of Flat Rock Creek, features bushland, walking tracks, picnic tables, eight tennis courts, a clubhouse and parking area.

The existing arrangements between Council and the Northern Suburbs Tennis Association remain in place and the courts will continue to be available for use until the transition is completed.