Development of the new visitor facilities and café at the Lakes Entrance Fishermen’s Limited (LEFL) site on Bullock Island is well advanced, with the planning application recently lodged with East Gippsland Shire Council.

The project involves construction of an on-water café, colocation of the existing ‘Off the Wharf’ fresh fish sales outlet into the new building and an all abilities access ramp and elevated platform for viewing the fishing fleet operations.

The project is being supported through a contribution of $1.5 million from the State Government.

“This is an exciting project and a key future attraction to grow visitation to our region,” chairperson of the LEFL (formerly LEFCOL) board, Bruce Hammond, said. 

“The fishing industry features significantly in the history of Lakes Entrance and continues to be a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike.

“The new facilities will enhance the experience of visitors seeking a close-up view of the fishing fleet operations and provide the opportunity to enjoy a meal of freshly caught local fish in the surrounds of the entrance and Cunninghame Arm.”

In addition to the main works of the project, it is also planned to improve general amenity, through paving of trafficable areas and landscaping to public access areas. To improve the overall safety for visitors, additional car parking and pedestrian pathways will be separated from LEFL’s fish processing operation. Crowther and Sadler Pty Ltd have been appointed as the principal consultant to coordinate implementation of the project.

“The redevelopment of Bullock Island has long been a vision for Lakes Entrance,” Mr Hammond said. 

“East Gippsland Shire Council’s 2014 Concept Master Plan for Bullock Island noted the LEFL site as a primary destination for locals and visitors.

“We are pleased that our project will be a key step towards implementing the Master Plan and integrating with other future developments on the island.”

Construction for the project is scheduled to commence towards the end of 2020 with completion planned for mid-2021.

IMAGE: The development of the Bullock Island visitor facilities and café has moved into the next promising stage with a planning application lodged with East Gippsland Shire. Pictured is a design image of the proposed café. (PS)