The Andrews Labor Government is creating more jobs and tourism opportunities in East Gippsland, with works underway on a major part of Bullock Island's redevelopment.
Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas today announced works are underway for the Bullock Island on-water cafe, which is one of several projects under construction on the island to boost tourism in the Gippsland Lakes region.
The project is a 2018 election commitment with $1.5 million supporting the cafe development. The Labor Government has invested a further $1.87 million through the Building Works package to bring the Bullock Island Masterplan to life.
The cafe is being delivered by the Lakes Entrance Fishermen's Limited (LEFL) which is also co-funding the project and currently operate a commercial fish processing and distribution facility on the same site.
The project will give visitors the chance to dine in or buy fresh seafood to take home, while a new accessible ramp and viewing platform will provide the chance for visitors to see seafood being unloaded and processed up close.
Bullock Island is expected to become a hub for locals and visitors alike to learn more about the history of the fishing industry in Gippsland Lakes.
Key elements of the Bullock Island Masterplan include upgrading parking, new fishing platforms, boardwalks and landscaped areas to create an enjoyable space for visitors and residents.
The Masterplan and cafe development works are part of the Labor Government's support for more jobs and tourism to help the region recover from the impacts of drought, bushfires and the pandemic.
The combined projects on Bullock Island will support 13 jobs during construction and create another eight ongoing roles once the projects are finished next year. Building Works is a $2.7 billion package to get thousands of Victorians back to work with shovel-ready projects that provide lasting benefits.
The Government has invested more than $30 billion in regional and rural Victoria since 2015.
As stated by Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas
"It's exciting to see progress underway at Bullock Island which is one step closer to becoming a major tourism destination for the region, attracting thousands of new visitors, creating jobs and supporting local businesses."
As stated by Member for Eastern Victoria Jane Garrett
"Bullock Island is the gateway to Lakes Entrance and these investments help capitalise on its unique maritime traditions to create jobs and give visitors even more reasons to visit our beautiful Gippsland Lakes."
As stated by Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
"East Gippsland has done it tough in all sorts of ways over recent years - projects like this play an incredibly important role in bringing more visitors, prosperity, and job opportunities to one of the most beautiful regions in Australia."
