After 4 long years closed to the general public, there is finally light at the end of the tunnel for Victoria's prize bushwalk - Telegraph Saddle Carpark to Sealers Cove on the popular Wilsons Promontory. Tenders are now open for construction of the new boardwalk, which was substantially damaged in storms in April 2021.
Sealers Cove is a highlight at the Wilsons Promontory National Park. With surrounding hiking trails, campground and stunning beach, the cove is popular with visitors to the park.
During 2021, successive storms and floods hit the Prom and caused significant and widespread damage. This included to the Sealers Cove Boardwalk, which provides a connection to the Tidal River visitor hub across an otherwise impassable swamp. The boardwalk was over 40 years old; and although sections were repaired after the flooding in 2011, the damage caused during 2021 is beyond repair.
The successful tenderer will be expected to seek numerous permits due to the sensitive nature of the area - including ecology, cultural heritage and heritage permits.
Construction is hoped to begin later this year, using FRP (fibre reinforced plastic) as the walking platform.
Parks Victoria Update (April 2025): https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/projects/eastern-victoria/sealers-cove-boardwalk-rebuild
Tender Information: https://www.tenders.vic.gov.au/tender/view?id=287463
Image: Parks Victoria Rangers assessing the flood damage to the Sealers Cove track.