First project in Shipwreck Coast Master Plan begins

CONSTRUCTION has begun on the first project to be delivered as part of the state government’s $9.8 million commitment to the first stage of the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan.

The Port Campbell pedestrian bridge will provide year-round connection for the community and tourists between the towns and the Discovery Trail in Port Campbell National Park.

The bridge has been designed using materials that will withstand the challenging coastal environment, it will have a minimal impact on the environment and will be visually sympathetic to the surrounding landscape.

To be built with a mix of wood, steel and stainless steel, the bridge will withstand one in 100-year weather events.

The Shipwreck Coast Master Plan is a program to protect the coastline and enhance the visitor experience between Princetown and the Bay of Islands.

The Shipwreck Coast encompasses 28 kilometres of coastline in the south-west, attracting more than five million visits a year.

The Master Plan will deliver an increase of $254 million in annual spending and create 3,834 Victorian jobs.

The state government is collaborating closely with the Traditional Owners from the Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation ensuring cultural heritage is maintained, respected and celebrated at each of the construction sites.

“This is an exciting day for the delivery of the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan, a comprehensive program to protect the coast, improve visitor opportunities and strengthen the local economy through sustainable tourism,” Parks Victoria acting chief executive officer Simon Talbot said.

“The Port Campbell Creek Pedestrian Bridge is the first project that will be delivered and will provide safe and accessible year-round connection between Port Campbell and the Discovery Trail, Port Campbell National Park.

“The path route has been aligned to avoid impacting the sensitive dunal vegetation and prevent exposure to tidal surge from the harbour.

“The Port Campbell town approach will have Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant accessible paths provided to the bridge. The bridge is DDA compliant to the north bank with the width allowing for two wheelchairs to pass side by side.”