Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says he’s ’pleased with the progress’ on the next critical stage of the Krauatungalung Walk (KW) in Lakes Entrance.
Local firm DesignCo Builders has won the contract for the ‘missing link’ section of boardwalk which will connect the esplanade pathway with the existing track behind the Eastern Beach Caravan Park.
“There’s major work underway at the moment with the construction of an environmentally-friendly outer barrier, followed by sand re-nourishment along the foreshore and the installation of the boardwalk,” Mr Chester said.
“After some long delays during the planning stages, I’m pleased with the progress and looking forward to the completion of this important link.
“It’s great to see the work being done by a local firm which was involved in the first stage near the surf lifesaving club and there’s a great deal of anticipation around the finished product.”
East Gippsland Shire Council is managing the project with funds secured from the previous Federal Government.
“In total, I secured $5.8 million from the previous Coalition Government, which has allowed the first stage of work to be completed near the aqua park, involving a boardwalk and indigenous-themed sculptures, including the popular Borun and Tuk seat.
“The full social, economic, environmental and cultural benefits of the KW project will only be delivered if the entire circuit is successfully completed around Cunninghame Arm, and I will keep working on grant opportunities in Canberra.
“When we sought community feedback several years ago, there was overwhelming support for this section of boardwalk because it will allow access to the foreshore and a continuous link between our two most popular beaches, without needing to cross a road.
“The vision for this project has always been about providing families pushing prams, people on mobility scooters, or those with disabilities in wheelchairs with a scenic circuit around a small section of the Gippsland Lakes, complete with significant indigenous art installations, to benefit locals and the visitor economy.”
