Lakes Entrance accommodation providers are offering some special Winter Warmer deals, for those venturing up to the Lakes this season.

Having the mildest weather in Victoria during autumn and winter, makes the Gippsland Lakes and Lakes Entrance the obvious choice for a winter break.

Clear blue skies have been giving Lakes Entrance crisp, frost-free mornings, gorgeous sunny days, and chilly star-studded nights.

Some specials available are, Sandbar Motel offering 3 nights for the price of 2, breakfast included. As well as a 2 course dinner at a local club, and a free cruise on Peels Cruises Stormbird (lunch included), all for $350 for a couple.

Paradise Apartments are throwing in a free morning or afternoon tea at a local Bakery, along with a stay 4 and pay for 3 night special.

Central Hotel, on the Esplanade, have a special for a double room and lunch or dinner included for $99 per double.

If it's a bush setting you're after, Tambo Lodge is offering 4 nights for 3 and 7 nights for 5 on all accommodation. But, you must call them via telephone, check-out their site.

Out at Lake Tyers Beach, the Beachfront Holiday Retreat offers you 4 nights for the price of 3, plus they throw in a continental breakfast, just what you need for these chilly winter mornings.

For a Holiday House, have a look at Constantines Holiday House, his special is book for 6 nights and get an extra night free, as well as a gift voucher.

If it's a pet friendly unit you're looking for, Anchorage Units, right in the middle of Lakes Entrance, has 3 nights midweek for $120 for two people. Kalimna Views are offering 7 nights stay for only $570.

The 2008 finalist in the Gippsland Tourism Awards, Waverley House Cottages, will keep your wood box stocked in your cosy cottage, whilst you stay for 4 nights and only pay for 3.

Footbridge: Stage 1

The Lakes Entrance community is witnessing a major transformation, spanning Cunninghame Arm.

After many years of lobbying local council, the replacement of the iconic wooden footbridge, joining the main shopping precinct with the Ninety Mile Beach, is taking shape.

Melbourne based design group Antarctica Group has won the $2.5 million dollar tender to design our ageing, but well known footbridge.

Upon inspection, the construction has now reached the other side, looking rather majestic in it's raw state. The concrete pour for the surface begins soon. All on target for completion in August.

Local Mayor, Cr Mendy Urie says the bold and innovate design will encourage visitors to Lakes Entrance just to see it.

An elliptical plate will provide mooring for small boats, fishing, swimming or simply sitting and dipping your toes in the water.

Sections of the platform will submerge and emerge from the water when the tide changes.

For more info visit the Shire's website.