Sealers Cove boardwalk rebuild

Project status

Last updated: March 2024

Planning for the project is underway.
Works will commence once the necessary assessments and approvals are complete, and contractors appointed.
Subject to assessments and approvals, we expect works to commence in 2025.

The project

Sealers Cove is a highlight at the Wilsons Promontory National Park. With surrounding hiking trails, campground and stunning beach, the cove is popular with visitors to the park.

During 2021, successive storms and floods hit the Prom and caused significant and widespread damage. This included to the Sealers Cove Boardwalk, which provides a connection to the Tidal River visitor hub across an otherwise impassable swamp.

The boardwalk was over 40 years old; and although sections were repaired after the flooding in 2011, the damage caused during 2021 is beyond repair.

A subsequent engineering assessment found that the entire two kilometres of the Sealers Cove Boardwalk needed to be replaced.

In late 2023, funding was announced to rebuild the boardwalk.

This is a major and complex project. It will replace two kilometres of boardwalk over sensitive terrain while sensitively managing the surrounding environment.

What will the boardwalk be like?

The new Sealers Cove Boardwalk will use Reinforced Plastic (FRP). This creates a sturdy walking experience, with fewer maintenance requirements. This material has been successfully used at both Lily Pilly Gully and to Waterloo Bay. The designs include a boardwalk that will be slightly wider, higher above ground and water, and will be constructed using materials that will be more appropriate to aquatic and marine environment.

Above: Park Rangers assessing flood damage on the Sealers Cove boardwalk.

Project timeline

We currently expect works to commence in 2025.

A timeline for completion of the project will be better known once all assessments and approvals are complete, and contractors are appointed.

Environment and cultural heritage management

Wilsons Promontory National Park is a place of outstanding conservation, recreation and wilderness values.

The Prom is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape where Traditional Owners retain deep connections to Country – both material and intangible.

Parks Victoria undertakes assessment and studies, and obtains necessary permits and approvals, before delivering projects at the Prom.

Access changes

There is currently no public access to the boardwalk.

Access to Sealers Cove is still possible but via a 25km hike from Telegraph Saddle.

Before visiting any park, people are advised to always check the park page on the Parks Victoria website for any changed conditions, or to call the Parks Victoria Information Centre: 13 1963.

Staying updated

Information about this project will be maintained on this page.

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