Great Victorian Rail Trail strategy supported by three Victorian councils

July 6, 2020

Murrindindi Shire Council is joining Mitchell and Mansfield Shire Councils to deliver the Great Victorian Rail Trail (GVRT) Strategic Development Plan, following endorsement at its 24th June meeting.

The Plan includes a 3-year action plan, which comprises 18 individual projects. One of the areas the Plan looks at is how local businesses that are associated with the GVRT are engaged, including those in the key trail towns of Yea, Molesworth, Alexandra and Yarck.

As Australia’s longest continuous rail trail, the 134 km GVRT follows the old railway line from Tallarook to Mansfield, with a spur line to Alexandra.

The GVRT is already an important tourism asset for the region, but the GVRT Strategic Development Plan aims to help the Rail Trail reach its full potential.

The Plan identifies actions and initiatives to help improve the Rail Trail experience for visitors and locals alike, foster engagement and collaboration for communities and local businesses, drive visitation and establish the GVRT as a signature tourism experience for the region.

Council’s Mayor Leigh Dunscombe said this is a fantastic opportunity to further improve the Rail Trail and bolster its role as a key tourism attraction for Murrindindi Shire and adds ‘just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Rail Trail is easily accessible, varied and unique. It offers a wonderful experience for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the great outdoors in our beautiful countryside, and explore the towns and villages along the way.

“There is a great opportunity to enhance and diversify the visitor experience on the Rail Trail, including the addition of accommodation and food and beverage options along the way.

‘We’re excited to work with alongside Mitchell and Mansfield Shire Councils to support this initiative and build visitation in our region. The Plan provides us with clear direction and actions, to help our Shire capitalise on opportunities for business and economic growth.”

2nd July 2020 - New Collie trails completed for mountain bike enthusiasts

22nd May 2020 - Warburton Mountain Bike Trails development to minimise environmental impact

8th January 2020 - Great Southern Regional trails master plan open for public comment

23rd September 2019 - NSW councils collaborate to develop new experience trails

11th September 2019 - Orange City Council welcomes Mountain bike trails proposal

2nd April 2019 - Conference explores development of sustainable trails

19th March 2019 - Community consultations begin on the Great Southern Regional Trails Master Plan

4th February 2019 - Otium Planning Group announces the release of a Regional Multi-Use Trails Strategy

16th October 2018 - Work commences on new Tasmanian bike trails

28th March 2018 - New boardwalk expands Tallebudgera nature trails

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