Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has secured $2.2 million in Federal Government funding for stage one of an all abilities boardwalk and concrete path in the heart of Lakes Entrance.
Mr Chester said the indigenous themed boardwalk and shared pathway known as the Krautungalung walk would provide a circuit around the eastern end of Cunninghame Arm, linking Main Beach to Eastern Beach.
“The construction of the path consists of four stages that will link missing sections on both sides of the water,” Mr Chester said.
“The project will use local artists to tell the story of the traditional owners of this special place, creating an opportunity for better understanding of indigenous culture.
“The circuit will deliver long term social, cultural, economic and environmental benefits and entrench Lakes Entrance as a peak destination.”
Mr Chester said he had always been a strong advocate for a healthy lifestyle and encouraging Gippslanders to get more active, more often.
“The circuit is designed to be inclusive and inspire people of all abilities to be more active and encourage locals to use the circuit as part of their regular exercise routine,” Mr Chester said.
“Investing in better facilities on public land is good for tourism and the liveability of our local communities.
“Further investment in infrastructure like shared pathways, exercise tracks and bike trails in Lakes Entrance will complement natural attractions and boost local jobs.”
Mr Chester said the new walk would create jobs during construction and improve the opportunities for locals and visitors to enjoy the eastern section of Cunninghame Arm.
“Our region’s rich indigenous heritage is poorly understood and rarely presented in a public environment to locals and the many visitors who travel to Lakes Entrance,” Mr Chester said.
“Having a raised boardwalk along the lakeside would minimise environmental impacts and allow people in wheelchairs, mobility scooters and families with prams to enjoy a 4.5-kilometre circuit in complete safety.”
This announcement is part of a $7 million funding package through the Federal Government’s Regional Recovery Partnership (RRP) that supports five East Gippsland community-based projects that will boost the regional economy.
Mr Chester secured $50,000 in Federal Government funding for the development of the concept plans as part of the Active Gippsland initiative that improves the liveability of local towns and grows the visitor economy.
