Lake Eacham facilities to get multimillion dollar makeover

Tired and rundown facilities at an Atherton Tablelands beauty spot visited by tens of thousands every year are about to get a multimillion dollar makeover.

A concept image showing what the finished project could look like. Picture: Supplied

Tired and rundown facilities at an Atherton Tablelands beauty spot visited by tens of thousands every year are about to get a multimillion dollar makeover.

Lake Eacham offers swimming, birdwatching, canoeing, picnic areas and shady walking tracks, and the ancient crater lake is high on the must-do list for visitors looking to enjoy natural gems on the Atherton Tablelands.

But time and the tropical elements have taken their toll on facilities within the Crater Lakes National Park and it’s time for a refresh.

An aerial view of the proposed day use area and carpark. Picture: Supplied

Long overdue upgrades to the Lake Eacham day use area include plans for extra bicycle parking, a more functional recreational lawn terrace, a refurbished lookout shelter, direct access area for non-motorised watercraft and a zero-depth entry to help wheelchair users into the lake.

A new swimming pontoon and elevated boardwalk is also planned.

But before any works get under way the The Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation has invited public input on the proposed revitalisation.

For a six-week window until March 7, 2025, park users can share insights that could help guide the design of upgraded amenities.

A flashy concept video released by the department reveals a waterfront terraced area much longer than the current concrete block walls.

And it appears existing car parks directly off Lakes Dr could be removed for improved safety in favour of a single entry/exit parking area behind a grassy picnic area.

The proposed elevated boardwalk with views to the crater lake.

Deputy director-general of Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service Ben Klaassen said the proposed changes to Lake Eacham were set to enhance both the safety and the overall experience for all park users.

“Our focus is on creating suitable infrastructure, such as paths for improved access to the water and extensive facilities, catering to the diverse needs of our visitors,” he said.

“Prioritising the protection of the unique cultural and natural values has been considered in the design.

Looking back to the lake with a grassed picnic area in the foreground. Picture Supplied

“We eagerly anticipate the community’s feedback to ensure our plans align with the desires and requirements of those who cherish Lake Eacham.”

The proposed development is expected to be completed in a staged approach over the next three years, ensuring the lake remains available to visitors as much as possible during construction.

There are no plans to change the current footprint of the day use area.

Engage in the public consultation process by taking part in a survey by searching Lake Eacham upgrade.

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Originally published as Lake Eacham facilities to get multimillion dollar makeover