Passers-by can now get a good idea of how the new viewing platform at the western gateway into Lakes Entrance will look when it is complete.
Wooden batons have been fixed to the curved steel frame that extends out from the hilltop as the modern, fully-accessible lookout continues to take shape.
Local MP Darren Chester, who secured Federal Government funding for the project in March last year, has been an interested observer of the changes at the site by the Princes Highway.
“We are now getting our first look at how the finished platform will appear from its commanding position above the town, the entrance and the lakes,” Mr Chester said.
“The timber complements the surrounding vegetation to create what will be an eye-catching landmark where people will want to stop and enjoy the view.
“Like many people in East Gippsland, I’m looking forward to enjoying the platform when it’s complete and I’m sure it will become a must-visit attraction for locals and visitors to our region.”
The platform, which includes seating for visitors along its internal curve, will provide a 270-degree view of the Gippsland Lakes, the Ninety Mile Beach and the ocean.
It is part of a $1.5 million investment comprising the construction of two viewing areas 400 metres apart: this one by the highway near the Kalimna Hotel turn-off and the other at Lookout Road,
Jemmy’s Point. East Gippsland Shire Council is managing the project.
The creation of the viewing areas is funded with equal contributions from the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund and East Gippsland Shire Council.
