Locals and tourists alike can now explore the beautiful Tuggerah Lakes Estuary in stunning detail, thanks to a new app launched by Central Coast Council. The app can be used to plan your next adventure, as a companion guide along your journey or as a virtual expedition without ever having to get your feet wet!

The Tuggerah Lakes Estuary ‘Explore’ app is an innovative phone and tablet app boasting interactive maps, information about different tracks and trails, species guides for local wildlife and updates on activities at the lake.

Mayor Jane Smith said the app is another way Council is helping the community better understand the complexity and uniqueness of the Tuggerah Lakes estuary.

“Whether it’s birdwatching, fishing or walking and bike riding on the shared pathways, Tuggerah Lakes Estuary ‘Explore’ can also help you to identify the many bird and fish species which occupy the lakes and surroundings, and what time of year you are likely to find them,” Mayor Smith said.

“It complements our existing multi-touch books that take an in depth look into Tuggerah Lakes, how they work and the various projects that have been undertaken by community groups and us, including Waterwatch and Landcare, while encouraging people to better care for the estuary.

“We know that the way people access technology continues to evolve and this app is the modern equivalent of the encyclopaedia of Australian birds that used to be in every house.”

“Anything that encourages learning and love of the natural environment is to be celebrated.”

The existing multi-touch books are a fantastic resource for schools and community groups to explore some of the environmental issues associated with the estuary and understand the management strategies underway to protect this vital ecosystem.

With photos, videos, audio clips and comprehensive information available at your fingertips, the multi-touch books can be found by searching for Central Coast Council in the Apple Books app.

The new Tuggerah Lakes Estuary ‘Explore’ app is available to download for free from Apple’s iTunes store and Android’s Google Play.

This project received grant funding from the Australian Government under the Improving Your Local Parks and Environment program.