Hundreds of community volunteers, along with Port Stephens Councillors and staff, have worked night and day to rejuvenate the Anna Bay town centre thanks to the 7 Day Makeover program, which came to an end with a community celebration this morning.

New bus stops with local artwork, new moveable seating, refreshed pedestrian crossing bollards and planter boxes are some of the projects that have brought new life to the town centre.

Anna Bay resident, business owner and Port Stephens Central Ward Councillor Sarah Smith has praised the efforts of the community.

“What has been achieved this week has just been amazing — I’m so proud of Anna Bay and everyone who has been out here all day, every day.

“People of all skill levels are working together to do a little or a lot. We’ve achieved so much by working together.

“This program has shown us the power of people and community working together with Council to bring out the best in our beautiful town,” Cr Smith said.

While the activity of the past week has been driven by the 7 Makeover program, this is just the beginning for Anna Bay.

“There is still lots to be done but the Anna Bay community has the passion and the motivation to keep this going,” Cr Smith said.

“The 7 Day program has real potential for all of Port Stephens — town centres like Tilligerry, Lemon Tree Passage, Raymond Terrace, even Medowie could really gain a lot from the community-powered approach.”

David Engwicht, the brains behind the 7 Day program, said the Anna Bay makeover has been the most successful.

“This has been our biggest ever both in terms of volunteers and what we’ve attempted to do — we’ve been ambitious,” Engwicht said.

“But the best thing to have come out of this for Anna Bay, as with every Makeover, is the community spirit and seeing locals take a sense of ownership with the work that’s been done.”