The model turned businesswoman and property investor – who grew up in Holmesville – described the site as spectacular and desirable.

“As a local girl, I think Trinity Point is going to be really special,’’ Ms Hawkins said.

‘‘To have a destination that people can visit, live [in] and escape from their busy lives is something that truly appeals to me.’’

Trinity Point developer Keith Johnson said Ms Hawkins was the ‘‘perfect fit’’ for the project.

‘‘She’s a successful businesswoman, with a true understanding and personal experience of property and its potential,’’ Mr Johnson said.

Ms Hawkins was a Newcastle Knights cheerleader before shooting to fame in 2004 when she was crowned Miss Universe.

Nowadays, she is based on Sydney’s northern beaches where she has designed and built waterfront properties with husband Jake Wall.

‘‘Growing up around the beautiful Lake Macquarie created some cherished childhood memories,’’ she said.

‘‘The community and the spirit is lovely.’’

Mr Johnson will officially launch the Trinity Point project, with Alan Jones as host, at Circular Quay in Sydney on Wednesday.

Celebrity real estate agent John McGrath will speak at the launch and market the project’s apartments.

Mr Johnson said he had ‘‘the best team of professionals in the business to bring this together’’. 

He vowed to make Trinity Point the Circular Quay of Lake Macquarie.

‘‘We want it to be a meeting place for the whole community,’’ he said.

‘‘Everybody I take there says Lake Macquarie is the biggest secret in NSW.

‘‘We want to make it a destination point.’’

The NSW government approved a concept plan five years ago for the 23-hectare site, including a 188-berth marina, 150 apartments, a restaurant, boardwalk, conference centre and shops.

Mr Johnson plans to increase the number of apartments to 250 and add a 60-room hotel.