$1 MILLION LAKE EACHAM REDEVELOPMENT NEARS END

Queensland Parks and Wildlife (QPWS) has completed the first stage of the $1 million Lake Eacham redevelopment and is about to start on the next three stages.

Environment Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr who is in Atherton today for the 100th Community Cabinet meeting said the popular area in Crater Lakes National Park near Atherton hosted 350,000 visitors each year and had long been due for a revamp.

“Lake Eacham is an icon of the Wet Tropics — the lake and rainforest make up one of tropical Queensland’s most beautiful natural areas and the area attracts up to 1500 visitors a day,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“Tablelanders are very proud of this iconic area and when the project is completed late this year, they will also be proud to show off the facilities to visitors.

“The work is aimed at improving facilities and safety and will better protect the environment.

“In total, QPWS is spending $1,020,000 to upgrade access to the water, improve the picnic area, build toilets and better manage the parking.”

Ms Nelson-Carr said Cyclone Larry last March caused delays to the project.

“A lot of trees came down and had to be removed,” she said.

“So far, workers have improved the lake access, installed a retaining wall to halt erosion, and built pathways and steps, with that work being finished in time for last September holidays.”

Ms Nelson-Carr said three major construction stages were still to be completed.

“By May or June, contractors will have built a new toilet and sewage treatment system.

“At the same time, new barbecues, shelter sheds and picnicking facilities will go in.

“Then the road will be realigned and parking will be provided for about 70 vehicles.

“The work may cause some temporary inconvenience to visitors but many visitor facilities available at Lake Eacham will remain open.

“Visitors are asked to please be patient and stay clear of the construction area.”

Plans for the next stages of the redevelopment can be viewed in the foyer of the QPWS offices at Lake Eacham and Atherton.

Media contact: Andie Gatti 3336 8002