SAFETY and maintenance work was carried out on Wednesday on the Wollumbin/Mt Warning Summit Walking Track which was closed for the day.

National Parks and Wildlife Service Tweed Area Manager, Damien Hofmeyer, said that work focussed on enhancing drainage and stabilising loose sections of the track and slopes.

"Due to the volume of material, we required a helicopter to lift material to the upper sections of the track," Mr Hofmeyer said.

Sixteen loads of gravel, each estimated at 400kg a load, tools and other material were lifted into position where five NPWS staff waited to receive the loads.

"Due to the location of the airlift, the operation could only take place if the weather was clear with light winds," Mr Hofmeyer said.

The work was due to be done last week but the rainy weather and cloud cover on the mountain forced NPWS to postpone until yesterday.

"This was the second planned lift for this current program which will incorporate the removal of all construction waste associated with the maintenance works." Mr Hofmeyer said

"To ensure the safety of visitors, it was necessary to close the track while the helicopter operation was in progress.

"Wollumbin National Park attracts approximately 100,000 visitors each year including many who attempt the walk to the summit. Track maintenance is therefore ongoing."