A major step has been taken towards creating a permanent home for the Port Macquarie Surf Museum, with a development application (DA) lodged for a proposed museum project at Oxley Reserve, Port Macquarie. The project aims to preserve the region’s rich surfing history and create a dedicated space celebrating beach culture, local surfers and the evolution of surfing on the Mid North Coast.

The Port Macquarie Surf Museum has been working for several years to establish a permanent location after operating through temporary sites and pop-up displays. The organisation was formed to collect and protect surf-related artefacts, photographs, stories and historical records connected with Port Macquarie’s surfing community.

The proposed museum at Oxley Reserve is planned to become a major cultural and tourism attraction for the region. The facility is expected to showcase historic surfboards, memorabilia, competition records and stories from generations of local surfers who have contributed to Port Macquarie’s strong surfing identity.

Museum supporters say the project will provide more than a display space. The vision includes educational programs, surf safety awareness, community events and opportunities for visitors to learn about the history and traditions of surfing. The museum also aims to recognise the connection between surfing, coastal lifestyles and the local community.

The proposed site at Oxley Reserve has been identified as a significant location because of its close connection to Port Macquarie’s coastline and surfing culture. The area near Oxley Beach has long been associated with community recreation, ocean activities and local heritage.

The museum project has received support from members of the local community and surfing organisations. Previous council discussions included consideration of the museum’s expression of interest for use of land near Oxley Oval and Oxley Beach precinct.

Funding and community support have also helped move the project forward. Supporters have contributed towards costs associated with progressing the development application, helping the museum committee continue planning for a permanent facility.

If approved, the museum is expected to become one of the key attractions highlighting Port Macquarie’s surfing heritage. The region has a long connection with surfing, bodyboarding and coastal sports, with many local athletes and surf communities contributing to Australia’s broader surf culture.

The development application will now go through the formal assessment process, where planning considerations, environmental impacts, community feedback and design requirements will be reviewed before any final decision is made.

Supporters believe the project could deliver cultural, educational and tourism benefits for Port Macquarie by preserving stories from the past while inspiring future generations of surfers and visitors.

The proposed Surf Museum represents a long-term effort by local volunteers and enthusiasts to ensure Port Macquarie’s surfing history is documented and celebrated for years to come.