A popular walking track in Mallacoota has been reconstructed as East Gippsland Shire Council continues rebuilding assets destroyed in the summer bushfires.
The Lakeside Drive Walking Track links Karbeethong and Mallacoota township.
One of the walking track’s boardwalks was partly damaged in two sections and was able to be repaired using existing materials to match the original structure.
However, two further boardwalks along this section of the walking track were destroyed and needed to be fully rebuilt. This 84-metre section was made of treated pine, including the deck.
Based on a combination of community feedback and a desire to use a more environmentally friendly product, Council chose to use different material for this boardwalk. The decking material is now FRP Minimesh, which allows water to drain through the grates while also providing grip.
A further 205-metre section of boardwalk was also destroyed and a temporary access track at the intersection of Lakeside Drive and Mirrabooka Road is in place to allow safe passage for pedestrians and motorists. It is expected that rebuild works on this final section of boardwalk will commence in July. Council reminds motorists to observe current speed restrictions in the area.
Council engaged Grant Cockburn and Brodie Palmer as the lead local contractors, and other local contractors, to complete these works and sought assistance from local architect Vern Darby who designed the original structures along Lakeside Drive. The works were not eligible for disaster recovery funding and have been fully funded by Council.
It is pleasing this infrastructure has been able to be replaced, is already being used by the community, and is also in place for when visitors return to Mallacoota.
Boardwalk sections of Mallacoota’s popular Lakeside Drive Walking Track have been repaired following this summer’s bushfires.
