THE popular Sealers Cove boardwalk in Wilsons Promontory National Park is set to reopen following upgrades.
The state government has allocated $4.8 million in investment to rebuild the two-kilometre boardwalk after storms damaged the structure in 2021.
“I’m delighted to announce that the Sealers Cove boardwalk will be restored – allowing hikers to experience the beautiful trek to the cove once again,” Minister for the Environment, Ingrid Stitt said.
“We are protecting what makes Wilsons Promontory special while improving the visitor experience for years to come.
“We’re investing in the promontory to further protect our native species and to ensure more people can enjoy this fantastic region.”
The new boardwalk will comprise fibre-reinforced plastic to withstand the promontory’s wild weather while providing guests easier and safer access to the golden beach at Sealers Cove.
The project will cross over an extensive swamp and end just before the cove, a popular campsite among hikers.
Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien, who questioned why the works were taking so long in state Parliament earlier this year, said he was pleased that the state government is fast-tracking works to repair the track.
“The Prom is our premier tourism destination that attracts hundreds of thousands of Australians and international visitors every year,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The Sealers Cove walk is an important part of the tourism offerings and also offers locals and visitors alike a great opportunity to see the best our prom has to offer.
“I was disappointed that works to complete the track had taken so long and were not forecast to be completed until 2024 at the earliest.
“It’s good to see Minster of Environment, Minister Ingrid Stitt, making the announcement of $4.8 million to get this track reopened.
“I am sure local tourist operators will also be pleased that our key attraction is now a step closer to reopening.
“I always advocate strongly for issues in my community, and I get frustrated when areas outside of Melbourne don’t get the priority that the city does.
“Today’s (Thursday, September 7) announcement is a good step, and I look forward to the track being reopened as soon as possible.”
Sealers Cove boardwalk has been a crucial part of the 11km hike between Tidal River campground and Sealers Cove since its inception in the 1980s.
Planning and design approvals for the project are underway to protect the significant cultural and environmental landscapes of Wilsons Promontory.
The Sealers Cove boardwalk project is expected to generate 54 jobs and add about $11.22 million to the regional economy.
