After much anticipation from the community, East Gippsland Shire Council will start work on the Lakes Entrance Foreshore Park and Krauatungalung Walk Stage 1 boardwalk on 15 April 2024.
These developments are set to enrich the community experience and further establish Lakes Entrance as a premier destination for residents and visitors alike.
The Foreshore Park development will feature a destination playground, pathways and landscaping, catering to people of all ages and abilities. With elements like water-play and nature-play, alongside universally accessible equipment, the park aims to promote outdoor activities and foster a healthier lifestyle among residents and visitors.
Krauatungalung Walk Stage 1 (Surf Club precinct) commenced in 2023 with the installation of an Indigenous Garden representing the five Gunaikurnai clans and a beautiful seat featuring Gunaikurnai creators Borun the pelican and Tuk the musk duck, to enhance the cultural experience for all.
Partnering with the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) underscores the commitment to engage and listen deeply to Traditional Owners. GLaWAC will design and install cultural art pieces, ensuring that the project remains deeply rooted in cultural heritage.
Council is about to commence the construction of a boardwalk extending approximately 300 metres from the toilets, past the Aqua Park, providing accessible access, cultural information, and a viewing platform looking back toward the township.
Mayor Cr Tom Crook emphasised the importance of these initiatives.
“Lakes Entrance draws over 500,000 visitors per year with around 30 per cent of the local economy tied to tourism. As an iconic destination, it has a 'pull through' effect on neighbouring towns. The enhancements to the foreshore through these two important projects are poised to further establish Lakes Entrance as one of Victoria’s top tourism destinations," Cr Crook said.
The works, funded by all three levels of government, the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions, as well as the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, are anticipated to take around six months to complete.
"These developments are a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance Lakes Entrance for both residents and visitors. We look forward to seeing these projects come to fruition and the positive impact they will have on our community," Cr Crook said.