Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has taken the fight for funding to finish the Krauatungalung Walk (KW) project to Canberra.
Mr Chester said he has lobbied senior Coalition colleagues to seek a funding commitment ahead of the federal election, which will be held on May 3.
With the first stage of the walk already open and attracting visitors, Mr Chester has urged East Gippsland Shire Council to move as quickly as possible to use existing funding and then plan for the next stage.
“I secured $5.8 million from the previous Federal Government, which has allowed the first section of KW to be completed, along with the sculptures and artwork,” Mr Chester said.
“That funding will also complete the ‘missing link’ in front of the houses along the esplanade, but we will need more money to do the major boardwalk joining Eastern Beach to Main Beach.
“Building an all-abilities accessible walking circuit and boardwalk will support a healthy, outdoor lifestyle and boost the visitor economy.
“The Shire needs to finish the sections in front of the houses and alongside the Eastern Beach Caravan Park to ensure we have a continuous link along the foreshore, then we can concentrate on linking the boardwalk between Eastern Beach and Main Beach.”
Mr Chester said he was optimistic the Coalition would support the final stage of the project if it wins government.
“It’s an exciting project, and I will continue to fight for the funding to see it delivered as soon as possible,” Mr Chester said.
