Long time supporters of the concept Christine Hamilton and Pip Marshman thanked Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Bega MP Andrew Constance for the announcement, one a string made by the government for the region this week.

”It’s fantastic, it’s been a long journey,” Ms Hamilton said.

Ms Marshman said she was “ecstatic” the project, linking the iconic wharf with the township, will become a reality.

“We’ve always seen the value, because it’s an underutilised part of the coast,” she said.

Local resident Chris Sparks said wheelchair accessibility is a key component of the project, and was pleased the announcement was made alongside the state government’s $10million bushfire care package and $100,00 in tourism promotion funding.

“Today’s an outstanding day for the community, it will go a long way to helping things heal quickly,” he said.

Ms Berejiklian said the walkway, which will incorporate a whale watching platform, could attract an extra 9000 tourists to the town each year.

“The events of the past week have been devastating for the community of Tathra and this grant is positive news that will hopefully help lift community spirits and get the local economy back on track at this very difficult time,” she said.

“The coastal walk is more than an investment in timber and concrete.”

​Mr Constance said the project will turn the headland into a “new tourism hot spot”.

“This new walkway will showcase Tathra’s beautiful scenery as well as its incredible history and culture,” he said.

The proposed funding will come from the state government’s $300 million Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund.

According to the government, 50,000 visitors to the region walk into the Tathra Visitor Information Centre each year.