The Gaagal Wajaarr Sea Country IPA area is located in the Gumbaynggirr coastal region surrounding Coffs Harbour. The IPA includes the Solitary Islands, rivers, estuaries and headlands all of which are of immense cultural value to the Gumbaynggirr people.
The area contains intermittently open and closed lakes and lagoons, mangroves and reefs at varying depths, and is home to over 20 protected species and communities, including humpback, blue and southern right whales.

NWAC employs upto five Gumbaynggirr Land and Sea Rangers to manage and protect the cultural and environmental values within the IPA,. The IPA Rangers undertake surveys and monitoring of shore birds, undertake shorebird breeding protection, monitor seagrass, undertake cultural mapping of the IPA, provide input into the development of catchment management plans, and undertake environmental works on estuaries. The IPA Rangers also undertake a range of education programs with elders, young people and the wider community on the importance of caring for our sea country.
The IPA is supported by its project partners, the Gumbaynggirr Wenonah Aboriginal Corporation (Prescribed Body Corporate), Southern Cross University - National Marine Science Centre and Ocean Warriors Australia.