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Darren Chester criticised Labor for rejecting funding to complete Lakes Entrance Krauatungalung Walk, supporting accessibility

The Albanese government rejected funding for the Krauatungalung Walk project in Lakes Entrance, despite local support. MP Darren Chester expressed disappointment, emphasizing its importance for accessibility along Cunninghame Arm.

By news@gippsland - 23rd January 2025 - Back to News

The Albanese government has rejected a bid to complete the final stages of a high-profile pathway project in Lakes Entrance despite the support of the local community and East Gippsland Shire Council. Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said he was 'bitterly disappointed' the Labor Party hadn't seen the value in the Krauatungalung Walk project, which would provide improved access to Cunninghame Arm in Lakes Entrance for people with mobility issues.

Darren Chester says the first completion of the first stage of Krauatungalung Walk had reinforced the need to complete the project, and he will continue to fight for additional funding after the Albanese government failed to support a grant application

Pathway funding denied

Mr Chester said, "The previous Coalition government provided $5.8 million for the all-abilities accessible walking circuit because we recognised the value of investing in infrastructure that supported a healthy, outdoor lifestyle and boosted the visitor economy. While I have been concerned about the slow progress over the past four years, the first stage has been a hit with everyone this summer and will be officially opened on Saturday, February 1, at 9.30am."

"We have enough funding to complete the missing link in front of the houses and seal the pathway alongside the Eastern Beach Caravan Park, but we won't have enough funding for the lakeside link between Eastern Beach and Main Beach."

"I am bitterly disappointed that the Minister for Infrastructure Catherine King hasn't recognised the social, economic, environmental and cultural values of the project, which will also celebrate the local Indigenous community through the installation of artwork alongside the walk," Mr Chester said.

Funding request rejected

Mr Chester the Shire had applied for funding under the Growing Regions program but had been advised this week that it was not successful. "In its application, the Shire recognised that Lakes Entrance is one of Victoria's iconic tourism destinations, which attracted about 1.5 million visitors per year and suffered major economic losses during the Black Summer bushfires."

"The crucial development of the southern boardwalk will help to protect environmentally-sensitive areas from uncontrolled foot traffic and provide a circuit around a section of the Gippsland Lakes to make it more accessible for people of all ages and anyone with mobility issues," Mr Chester said.

Chester pledges fight

Mr Chester said he would continue to fight for additional funding and had repeatedly urged the Council to fast-track the existing components of the project to demonstrate progress to the federal government.

"We need to complete the stages, which are fully funded, as soon as possible to prove the merits of finishing the project and demonstrate the full value of Krauatungalung Walk for locals and visitors."

"It's extraordinary the Albanese government has missed this opportunity to demonstrate respect for Indigenous communities with a practical project that would help to tell the full story of our region," he said.

Pictures from Darren Chester MP website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com