Lakes Entrance Action and Development Association’s (LEADA) attempts to gain agreement on what the infrastructure priorities are for Lakes Entrance are being achieved, according to the chair of LEADA’s Infrastructure committee, Bruce Hurley.
“LEADA is collaborating with East Gippsland Shire Council (EGSC) and local Ministers of Parliament so that we can collectively advocate for funding. The infrastructure priorities are also based on feedback from residents and businesses,” he
said.
“We regularly meet with East Gippsland Shire Council mayor (Cr John White) and chief executive officer (Fiona Weigall), Federal MP Darren Chester and keep in touch with State MP Tim Bull and other authorities.”
Earlier this month the foreshore playground was officially opened, as well as the pavilion that supports water activities including the Aqua Park and Stage One of the Krauatungalung Walk.
“Over the holiday period this area was buzzing with activity with the Aqua Park, the Servo, the new playground and the carnival coming to life,” Mr Hurley said.
The first infrastructure priority is the construction of a Sports Stadium in Lakes Entrance.
“The State Government has agreed to fund the design and planning of this facility. It is to be located next to the Aquadome with LEADA establishing a working group to assist with the design of the stadium,” Mr Hurley said.
“It is expected the design will be completed in time for the lead up to the 2026 State Election. During this period LEADA together with council will advocate to both major political parties to commit to construct the stadium during 2027-28.”
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The second priority is the completion of the Krauatungalung Walk. Mr Chester is actively seeking Federal funding together with the EGSC to complete this walk.
“This all abilities walk will tell the story of the Lakes Entrance Aboriginal community. The estimated cost for these two projects is over $20 million,” Mr Hurley said.
Another high priority is the completion of two masterplans: one for Palmers Road and the other for the surf club precinct.
The development of Palmers Road was discussed at the February meeting of LEADA’s Infrastructure committee. The Palmers Road site adjoins the area set aside for a large residential area called the Northern Development.
“The meeting agreed that LEADA would give strong support for an Emergency Services Centre on the site and for the development of a plan for the remainder of the Palmers Road site that included consideration for botanical gardens, convention centre, cultural centre including performance and art display space and a discovery centre,” Mr Hurley said.
“Those at the meeting said there needed to be more consultation with the community about the priorities for this iconic public site with its magnificent views. LEADA will continue to raise this project with council and is seeking a community meeting to be held in the Palmers Road council building later this year to explore the potential of this site and to gain the views of the community.
“The surf club area is central to Lakes Entrance for both residents and visitors and urgently needs a face lift. Significant maintenance work needs to be done, together with landscaping, provision of shade and path improvements.”
The issue of shade sails in many of the newly renovated and developed sites is also high on LEADA’s agenda.
“We have met with council to advocate for more shade sails, particularly at the end of the Krauatungalung Walk platform that has been completed, but also in many other areas including Bullock Island, the Slipway and the new playground,” Mr Hurley said.
LEADA also has a list of priorities for minor projects such as Myer Street CBD upgrade, improved trails as well as requirements for other plans such as the further development of the Slipway site and the need for the industrial estate to be expanded.
LEADA also continues to monitor the progress of projects already funded such as the development of Jemmys Point footpath and improvements to the outlook intersection on Jemmys Point.
“Feedback on any projects is welcomed. We also encourage the local community to become members. This can be done online by visiting LEADA’s website. Presently, LEADA has 660 members with our target 1000,” Mr Hurley said.
