A new viewing platform will soon take shape at Golden Beach in Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park, giving locals and visitors a better way to enjoy one of the region’s most loved stretches of coastline.

The existing platform will be replaced with a wider, more durable structure designed to reflect how people use the spot, whether it’s pulling in for a quick look, heading down to the beach, or settling in at the picnic area.

The site sits within a culturally important part of the coastline that has been cared for by Gunaikurnai people for thousands of years.

Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park is one of fourteen parks jointly managed by the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) and Parks Victoria, and the upgrade is being delivered through that partnership.

Importantly, the works will be carried out by GLaWAC’s Business Enterprise team, keeping the project local and ensuring cultural knowledge is part of how the work is done on Country.

Works will begin after the Easter school holidays and are expected to take around five weeks to complete. During this time, the viewing platform and nearby picnic area will be temporarily closed. Visitors will still be able to access the beach via nearby alternative access points, with signage in place to help guide people.

Once complete, the new platform will offer a more robust, low-maintenance structure suited to coastal conditions, along with improved access for a wider range of visitors.

The project is funded through Parks Victoria’s Asset Regeneration Program, with co-investment from GLaWAC.

Quotes attributable to Parks Victoria Regional Director Gippsland, Kerri Villiers

“Golden Beach is one of those spots people have a real connection to, it might be a regular stop on the way through, or somewhere families have been visiting for years,”

“This is about making sure it stays easy to access and enjoyable to spend time in, while keeping the character of the place intact.”

Quote attributable to GLaWAC Business Enterprise Manager Willow Carter

“This coastline holds a lot of meaning for our people, and that connection is ongoing. Having our team out there doing the work means we’re caring for Country in a practical way, while also creating opportunities for our community.”

Golden Beach. Credit: Parks Victoria