Construction on a critical “missing link” of the Krauatungalung Walk in Lakes Entrance is officially set to begin, following East Gippsland Shire Council’s decision to award the long-awaited project tender.
The impending stage of the foreshore trail will feature a raised boardwalk and sand re-nourishment along the esplanade, seamlessly connecting the existing shared footpath to the Eastern Beach trail.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester welcomed the announcement, noting that while the project had faced significant delays, the contract marked a massive win for regional accessibility.
“It has taken several years longer than we expected, but council has awarded the tender for this critical part of the project, which will result in an all-abilities accessible link along Cunninghame Arm between Main Beach and Eastern Beach,” Mr Chester said.
“Permits are in place, and East Gippsland Shire Council is confident the next section of boardwalk behind the houses can be delivered by Christmas this year, which is great news for locals and visitors.”
Mr Chester previously secured $5.8 million from the former Federal Coalition Government to kickstart the project. That initial injection funded the completed first stage near the local aqua park, which features an accessible boardwalk and Indigenous-themed sculptures. However, the MP stressed that the project’s true potential hinges on finishing the entire loop.
“The full social, economic, environmental and cultural benefits of the Krauatungalung Walk project will only be delivered if the entire circuit is successfully completed,” he said.
Public consultation for the incoming over-water section yielded strong backing, with residents championing the design because it allows families pushing prams, individuals on mobility scooters, and wheelchair users to move continuously between the town’s two most popular beaches without having to cross a road. Addressing potential friction regarding residential boundaries, Mr Chester noted that extensive consultation had been undertaken with adjacent neighbours to minimise privacy impacts.
Despite celebrating the tender breakthrough, the Federal MP levelled sharp criticism at the shire over ongoing delays on the final eastern stretch of the loop. Mr Chester confirmed he is continuing to apply pressure on council to urgently upgrade the remaining trail network adjacent to the Eastern Beach Caravan Park.
“Council has been slow to act on this section, and there’s no excuse for the delays,” Mr Chester said. “The existing gravel track needs to be sealed… council has had five years to finalise the design. I will keep the pressure on until we complete the circuit because Krauatungalung Walk has the potential to become an iconic attraction for our region.”
