The area was not in good shape at the time. It was overrun with exposed tree roots and garden escapees such as agapanthus and the beachfront that was disappearing under a carpet of kikuyu.

Six years later the 1.5-kilometre Sunset Cove Walking Track is used by locals and visitors alike and is currently rated the second most popular tourist attraction in East Gippsland on Trip Advisor.

Paynesville Landcare Coastcare Group member Jane Shaw says that walking the track is good for the soul.

“It’s a very tangible connection to nature as you’re taking the dog for a walk in the morning. You’re walking through semi-native bush; you’re right on the edge of the water and it’s well known that you can walk with the dolphins and they’ll just travel along with you. It’s pretty special,” she said.

Group president Russell Peel believes the track is a way for the community to improve its health and well-being.

“It gets people out of their house, gets them active and it’s a social thing. Visitors to the area swell in the summertime and where you just had the locals using the track, now they bring their family down and the tourists are using it too. It’s a lovely area to walk along and make new friends.”

Jessica Shapiro is Communications and Engagement Officer at East Gippsland CMA.

For more information: email jshapiro@egcma.com.au