Work has begun on a $257,000 raised boardwalk along the iconic Surf Coast Walk to protect the sensitive Anglesea heathland and enhance the visitor experience.
Western Victoria MP Gayle Tierney, representing Environment Minister Lily D’Ambrosio, today turned the first sod on works to build the 180-metre boardwalk at Demons Bluff.
EcoProjects Australia is constructing the boardwalk along part of the Surf Coast Walk, a 44-kilometre trail that extends from Fairhaven to Point Impossible at Torquay.
Construction comes after part of the coastal track was re-routed, due to concerns about the stability of nearby cliffs.
The new route is back from the cliffs, protects the surrounding environment and allows nature-admirers to be closer to the heathland.
To minimise construction impacts on sensitive heathland areas, most of the boardwalk will be fabricated off-site, before being carried in and installed by hand.
A grid mesh decking, positioned approximately a metre above ground, will allow light and rain to reach the heathland underneath.
The Great Ocean Road Coast Committee is working with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning and local conservation group ANGAIR to ensure minimal disturbance to the heathlands during construction.
The former route of the track has been revegetated with the assistance of ANGAIR volunteers.
The project is being funded with $110,000 from the Victorian Government and $147,000 from the Great Ocean Road Coast Committee.
Quotes attributable to MINISTER FOR ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE, LILY D’AMBROSIO
“The Surf Coast Walk is a popular nature-based recreation and tourism experience that provides significant economic benefits for the region.”
“Construction of the Demons Bluff Boardwalk is a significant investment in the Surf Coast Walk and the protection of Victoria’s stunning coastline.”
Quotes attributable to MEMBER FOR WESTERN VICTORIA, GAYLE TIERNEY
“The construction of this boardwalk at Demons Bluff will enhance the visitor experience by allowing people to take in wonderful views and explore the Anglesea heathland.”
“Our coasts are vulnerable to many hazards, and it’s important that we undertake important works like this to protect the coast and its users.”