North Stradbroke Island’s popular Gorge Boardwalk, at Point Lookout, is about to become an even bigger attraction with work on stage three to start soon.

The work will add another viewing platform to the stunning 1.2km cliff-top walk, one of South-East Queensland’s most acclaimed tourist attractions, as well as upgrade sections of path.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said Council’s funding of the work on the world-class boardwalk, a “must-do” for holidaymaker and day-trippers, showed it was committed to leading the way in sustainable tourism.

“Council is very keen to support and promote sustainable tourism on Straddie – it’s the key to its economic future and features prominently in our plans for the Redlands’ future,’’ Cr Williams said.

 “There are few places anywhere with such amazing views and opportunities for marine wildlife encounters, particularly one so accessible and free. This latest work will make it even safer and easier to enjoy.

“It’s already a huge drawcard for the Redlands, and Straddie in particular, and the new viewing platform and new sections of boardwalk will add enormously to the experience.

“The boardwalk is among the best whale watching platforms in Australia and, outside of the humpback migration, you will see dolphins, rays, sharks, fish, turtles and ospreys.”

Division 2’s Cr Craig Ogilvie (North Stradbroke Island, Cleveland) said the work had been programmed to ensure the entire boardwalk would be open for the busy Easter school holiday period.

“It will be done in three stages to allow limited access to the boardwalk during construction and full access during the Easter break,’’ Cr Ogilvie said.

“Construction will start within the Gorge area, followed by the section north to Norm’s Seat. The final section will be the southern end of the Headland Park entrance.

“As sections are progressively completed, fences installed for public safety will be moved and that part of the boardwalk opened for public use.

“Every effort will be made to minimise disruption to sightseers and locals.

Cr Ogilvie said the latest stage will bring the total cost of the boardwalk’s construction to more than $2 million.

NOTE: Work on Stage 3 of the Gorge Boardwalk is scheduled to start on 28 January 2015, depending on the weather.