Major upgrades at Bullock Island, Lakes Entrance are complete with visitors now able to better enjoy this stunning location close to the famous entrance to Bass Strait.

East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Cr Tom Crook said it has been great to see the completion of Stage 1 of the Bullock Island Masterplan.

“Bullock Island is now - with its shared trail system, picnic tables, seating, accessible boardwalk and toilets, a destination with infrastructure that complements its iconic location and supports people to stay and enjoy the area,” Cr Crook said.

The special values of the island and Entrance, and the opportunity to create an iconic destination for tourists and locals have been well documented. The work follows many years of planning and advocacy. A major step was completed in late 2019 with Council taking on management of a large portion of Bullock Island, allowing Council to seek funding opportunities and progress planning and designs.

“The design process recognised that views and access to the spectacular waterfront and Entrance are what locals and visitors value about Lakes Entrance. This project has been designed to complement the natural beauty of Lakes Entrance by improving accessibility and providing high quality amenities,” Cr Crook said.

Included in the project was replacement of the ageing bridge (incorporating a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists), formalised car parking, public art, solar lighting, drainage, signs and telecommunications.

Eye-catching public art in the form of murals painted on two ocean buoys are now a striking landmark on Bullock Island. The buoys were donated by Gippsland Ports and painted by artist Lukas Kasper.

“Solar lighting ensures accessibility at night and demonstrates Council's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Council has a growing emphasis on green infrastructure and eco-friendly urban development,” Cr Crook said.

Installing toilets on the island was a key part of the project, as the lack of facilities impacted the length of time people could spend in the area.

"As a tourist hub, Lakes Entrance attracts over 500,000 visitors annually, and the completion of this Bullock Island project further solidifies its appeal as a top tourist destination," Cr Crook said.

"Council would like to thank our lead contractor, Whelans Group Investments, for their collaboration on this project. Whelans' professional conduct resulted in a smooth delivery of works without delay or challenges," Cr Crook said.

“Council also appreciates the community’s patience during the construction period, and also the businesses who were affected by road closures and delays: Lakes Entrance Fishermen's Co-op, Gippsland Ports, TAFE Gippsland - Lakes Entrance (Seamec),” Cr Crook added.

The Bullock Island Masterplan Implementation Project Stage 1 was funded by generous grants from the Australian and Victorian Governments. Council also made a substantial contribution.