The Lakes Entrance Action and Development Association (LEADA) is wrapping up another busy and successful year and is pleased to welcome some new members onto the Committee of Management.
LEADA chairperson Boyd McPhee said at the October annual general meeting it was pleasing to see members stepping up to be on the committee.
“Without energetic and passionate members, we would not get things done and followed up,” he said.
The LEADA committee comprises of Michelle Whelan, Sandi Kate Hutchins, Kris Cordery, Boyd McPhee, Su Robbins, Arja Toivanen, Sharen Cameron, Imie Lemans and Bruce Hurley.
Boyd also thanked East Gippsland Shire Council for its work and being committed to working with LEADA and consulting on projects and events.
“Congratulations to the new mayor John White on his position and we look forward to working with council in 2025,” he said.
“As the year winds down Lakes Entrance is gearing up for a big summer and lots of visitors. It must be said that the projects completed in the last 12 months have enhanced the town and will make it far better for holiday makers.”
The LEADA Infrastructure Committee met recently and discussed LEADA’s priorities based on previous surveys and feedback from members. Priorities did not include important projects like the Northern Growth area, Eastern Creek drainage, upgrade of suburban roads and the town tip.
The priorities have focused on public facilities and projects that improve the amenity of Lakes Entrance for residents and tourists.
Projects that have funding granted but are not yet completed such as upgrading Jemmys Point footpath, Kalimna highway intersection and the pedestrian crossing in Church Street have not been included.
“We would love to have feedback from members commenting on whether we have the priorities right,” chair of Infrastructure Bruce Hurley said.
“Please send feedback to my email brucehurely46@gmail.com.”
Major projects include the sports precinct including a new stadium, completing the Krauatungalung Walk, Palmers Road – Agreement on plan for Palmers Road, upgrading or establishing new meeting rooms, convention centre, performing arts space with improvements to Mechanics Hall or another alternative, upgrading the information centre and/or establishment of a Discovery Centre.
Minor projects include shade provision in areas such as near the surf club, slipway and foreshore, audit of and improvements to existing walks and trails such as signage and to establish priorities for new or extended trails, improvements to the spit near Bullock Island, upgrade CBD section of Myer Street, landscaping and barbecues at Bullock Island and near the carpark at the eastern end of the Esplanade.
“The good news is that works continue with the improvements to Marine Parade and Myer Street due to be completed prior to Christmas and stage one of the Krauatungalung Walk and the upgrading of the top section of the Jemmys Point footpath and Kalimna intersection due to be completed next year,” Mr Hurley said.
“For LEADA to be effective it can only promote and advocate for a limited number of projects. The two top listed major projects will each require several million dollars from government grants. The Federal Government has provided $3.6 million for the first stage of the Krauatungalung walk with additional funding coming for this stage from GLaWAC and East Gippsland Shire Council.
“The State Government has committed $800,000 for the design and planning stage of the Sports Stadium. Advocacy will be required to achieve the extra funding required for these two projects to be completed.”
New chair of the Business, Tourism, and Events Sharen Cameron hopes everyone is enjoying the wonderful Christmas vibe around Lakes Entrance.
“A big shoutout to the Christmas in Lakes Entrance group for their incredible effort in decorating the town, it looks fantastic,” Sharen said.
“To spread the festive cheer even further, we are offering a $200 gift voucher prize for the best decorated business. So, we encourage all businesses to get into the Christmas spirit.”
In addition to the decorations, LEADA BTE have raised some Christmas flags around town and are already planning to expand these efforts next year.
“For a fun new addition, head up to Jemmys Point Lookout to check out the newest photo opportunity for Lakes Entrance. Our new Insta Frame lets visitors and locals snap a photo with the iconic entrance in the background. Don’t forget to tag #LakesEntrance to help showcase our beautiful town to the world,” Sharen said.
The BTE committee has been busy preparing for this summer’s events and with the guidance of Sharen are planning a major business networking event early next year, possibly in February.
“While this year’s summer events have been months in the making, we welcome feedback from the community and local businesses as we look ahead to planning for next year. Your input is invaluable in helping us make these events even better.
“As we gear up for a busy 2024, we are looking to expand our volunteer committee. If you are interested in contributing to the exciting activities planned for the new year, we would love to hear from you.
Sharen is calling for volunteers to help out at the New Year’s Eve fireworks event.
“If you are available, please reach out to us at leada-bte@leada.com.au.
“I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a joyous holiday season,” Sharen said.
