An upgrade to the Penguin Parade, which includes a new accessible boardwalk and penguin viewing stands, has hit a major milestone
Surefoot footings and steel framework have been installed as part of the project, which has been funded by a $5 million grant from the Regional Tourism Investment Fund.
As part of the construction, steel framework was lifted by helicopter into location, with a skilled pilot guiding the beams and frames into position – protecting the sensitive natural habitat from heavy construction vehicles.
Other components of the boardwalk were carried in by hand and installed one-by-one to ensure the little penguins and their habitat were protected.
All works have been undertaken with qualified wildlife officers on-site. This ensures any penguins that may be present during construction are monitored and uninterrupted by the works.
"Phillip Island is one of Australia's must-see tourist destinations," said Nature Parks CEO Catherine Basterfield,
"We are grateful for the government's commitment in bettering our tourism offering so the Penguin Parade can be enjoyed for generations to come."
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos said the upgrade would give visitors a chance to get closer to the beach and enjoy the spectacle of the little penguins waddling up the shore each evening.
Once completed, the new boardwalk will create an improved looped walking experience to better connect visitors with nature and provide greater accessibility for all abilities through to the penguin viewing stands.
In addition, there will be greater shared access, improved visitor flow, increased capacity and an even closer view of the little penguins waddling home each evening.
The works will also continue to provide protection to little penguins by use of elevated boardwalks to allow them unlimited movement within the habitat.
Terroir Architects and Simpson Construction are working with the Nature Parks on the Penguin Parade Boardwalks and Viewing Stands Redevelopment project, which is due to be finished by December 2024 in time for the peak summer visitor season.