A letter from Parks Victoria (PV) has revealed an extension to the East Cape Boardwalk would “not achieve improved accessibility for all users” after the issue was brought forward by the Orbost and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ODCCI).
In a letter addressed to PV on April 30, 2024, secretary of the ODCCI, Garry Squires, outlined the need for better access to the boardwalk to make it safer for those with restricted mobility.
“The need for a safe access to the start of the boardwalk was flagged at a very early stage when the replacement of the burnt structure was being planned,” the letter read.
“As you would be aware the Orbost district has been severely impacted by the government decision to close the timber industry and in many forums tourism is touted as one of the future opportunities for the district.
“Tourism in East Gippsland means all ages and grey nomads are regular visitors to our area.
“However the current newly constructed boardwalk is unavailable and unsuitable for those with restricted mobility whether they be the elderly or the very young.
“This is a pity given the quality of the workmanship in the boardwalk and the outstanding views which can be obtained from the lookout platforms along the two sections of new boardwalk.
“On behalf of the community and the touring public, we request that funds be made available for three additional sections of boardwalk, for a total of approximately 150 metres, to finish the job of linking the two recently completed sections of boardwalk to the entrance point from the beach and provide an outstanding piece of infrastructure at Cape Conran as part of the tourism infrastructure in the area.”
The response from PV on June 17, 2024, stated an extension to the East Cape Boardwalk had been flagged in 2021 as a “possible project for delivery.”
“Preliminary investigations were undertaken, which identified that additional funding would be required to deliver the extension and a range of legislative approvals would be required, some of which may prohibit the construction of a new structure at this location,” the letter read.
“Further to the funding and approvals considerations, access to the current East Cape Boardwalk requires visitors to walk flights of stairs and in some sections to traverse sand and rocks, meaning an extension to the boardwalk would not achieve improved accessibility for all users.
“While accessing the East Cape boardwalk can represent a challenge for some users, the Cape Conran Precinct offers a range of experiences for all visitors, which include taking one of the multiple trails, enjoying the beach or camping at Banksia Bluff.”
IMAGE: Access to the East Cape Boardwalk has been flagged as an issue since 2021, however a recent response by Parks Victoria has revealed an extension to the boardwalk would “not achieve improved accessibility for all users.”
