Residents in Lakes Entrance now have an opportunity to provide their feedback on plans for an all-abilities accessible walking circuit linking Main Beach and Eastern Beach.
The public consultation period for the project, known as the Krauatungalung Walk, is now open.
Local MP Darren Chester has encouraged anyone with an interest in the project to read the concept design and pre-construction proposal and provide their feedback.
“This is an exciting project that will improve opportunities for locals and visitors to get outside and enjoy a picturesque part of Cunninghame Arm, while creating jobs during construction,” Mr Chester said.
“The walk will have an Indigenous theme and will improve understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage by featuring artwork and stories of the traditional owners and the township which has developed over the past 170 years.”
Local consultants Archistyle and Lake Tyers Beach Design have worked with Lakes Entrance Action and Development Association (LEADA) and stakeholders to develop the preliminary concepts.
President of the Lakes Entrance Action and Development Association Bruce Hurley said the proposal would complement other infrastructure works in the town.
“LEADA has successfully advocated for a number of exciting projects in Lakes Entrance, including the viewing platform under construction at Kalimna, the Bullock Island redevelopment and the streetscape upgrade along the Esplanade,” Mr Hurley said.
“Like these other projects, the Krauatungalung Walk promises to further enhance the attractiveness of our town for the enjoyment of both locals and visitors for years to come. The recognition the walk will give to the Lakes Entrance Aboriginal community is an important step towards local reconciliation.”
Mr Chester secured $50,000 in funding from the Federal Government to develop the plans, investigate the environmental impacts and provide cost estimates.
“This walking circuit would fill the ‘missing link’ along Cunninghame Arm and joining the existing shared pathway with the track which runs alongside the Eastern Beach Caravan Park,” Mr Chester said. “The circuit would also improve access between Eastern Beach and Main Beach.
“This project will support growth in the regional tourism industry, provide for practical environmental works to rehabilitate the estuary and become an outstanding exercise opportunity for all ages, especially people with mobility issues.”
Mr Chester said he would work to secure funding needed for the circuit – estimated to be around $6.5 million – from the Federal Government as part of its bushfire recovery initiatives to boost and strengthen the visitor economy.
The proposal for the Krauatungalung Walk can be viewed at www.leada.com.au.
Comments and feedback should be emailed to admin@leada.com.au before 5pm Wednesday, September 30.
