Tourists travelling east through Bairnsdale will be encouraged to take the scenic coastal route through Lakes Entrance after representations from Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, to the Roads Minister has resulted in approval for new directional signage.
“The need for new and enhanced signage arose from discussions I had with Lakes Entrance Action and Development Association (LEADA) members who reported they were receiving feedback from touring motorists who had by passed Lakes Entrance because their car GPS took them through Bruthen and Nowa Nowa,” Mr Bull said.
“The tourists said they were disappointed that they missed out on seeing Lakes Entrance and that they had not noticed any signage on their travels to encourage them to consider taking the coastal route. This of course also has an impact on the business community.
“I wrote to the Minister requesting improved signage prior to the Great Alpine Road/Princes Highway roundabout in Bairnsdale to promote the coastal route and this was approved in principle earlier this year with the details to be worked out between the various departments.”
LEADA president, Bruce Hurley, is pleased with the response.
“When we first discussed this our members thought it was a good opportunity to also apply for a pictorial style sign featuring one of the iconic images of the Gippsland Lakes that really grabs people’ s attention,” he said.
“These pictorial signs are becoming more common and while this request sat outside the current Tourist Signing Guidelines, it was pleasing that Regional Roads Victoria responded positively to the case that was developed by LEADA with the support of Destination Gippsland.”
Destination Gippsland chief executive officer, Terry Robinson, said the signage upgrade was overdue.
“Lakes Entrance is a key tourist destination and we want as many people as possible to enjoy the experience of visiting Lakes,” Mr Robinson said.
Mr Bull has congratulated LEADA, Destination Gippsland and Regional Roads Victoria for their collaboration in achieving this outstanding outcome.
“This has taken a bit longer than what was originally expected but I am confident that it has been worth the wait,” he said.
