Progress well underway for the Mallacoota Scenic Coastal Walk

Friday 10 August, 2012

Construction works are well underway on the new Mallacoota Scenic Coastal Walk, which will eventually extend from the Mallacoota Township through to the Croajingolong National Park near Pebbly Beach.  

Parks Victoria and the East Gippsland Shire Council are working in partnership to deliver this exciting project as part of the Great Coastal Walks of East Gippsland, which also includes the recently opened Snowy River Estuary Walk at Marlo.

These projects have been supported by the Victorian State Government through Regional Development Victoria, with additional financial support and project management undertaken by Parks Victoria and the East Gippsland Shire Council.

The first stage of the walk development commenced with the upgrading of the 2.7km Casuarina and Heathland walking tracks between the Mallacoota Township and Davis Creek beach. The second stage is now underway with the construction of 6.6km of new walking tracks along the coast from Davis Creek to Croajingolong National Park where it will connect with the Old Coast Road Walking Track.

“Before works proceeded we undertook extensive consultation with local Aboriginal groups as well as survey work to ensure protection of cultural heritage values, due to the area’s rich Aboriginal history," said Parks Victoria Ranger in Charge, Darryl Burns.

“Our contractors have been careful to avoid damage to cultural sites."

The work involved for stage two includes construction of elevated lookout platforms at Davis Creek, Betka Point, and in the vicinity of Airport Cove. These platforms will complement six ground level lookouts that will provide walkers with spectacular views of the coastline.

Other structures include a new pedestrian bridge at the creek which flows out to Pebbly Beach and a boardwalk near the small lagoon east of the Betka Bridge.

Mr Burns said he was really pleased with the progress the various contractors were making on the walk construction despite the unusually wet season.

“The wet ground conditions have proven to be a challenge in some areas, and we will not be able to gravel some sections until soils dry out.”

“Unfortunately the heavy rainfall which accompanied the Gippsland floods in June has damaged new track surfaces along the Casuarina and Heathland walks, but plans are underway to repair this damage,” said Mr Burns.

While works are underway, visitors are advised not to put themselves or contractors at risk by avoiding those sections that are closed.