Bass Coast Shire Council has been awarded $375,000 from the Victorian Government's Investment Fast-Track Fund 2022-23 to progress planning development for the trail extension between Woolami and Nyora, which is earmarked as the vital western link of the 1,100km Gippsland Odyssey trail.
This 25km section provides the missing link to connect the Bass Coast Rail Trail and the Great Southern Rail Trail and if constructed will provide a continuous off-road link between Phillip Island and Port Welshpool.
Bass Coast Shire Council and South Gippsland Shire Council are working in collaboration and both financially contributing to the $500,000 planning project.
The funding will enable vital planning for the project including biodiversity assessments, structural assessments of existing bridges along the former rail network and initial engagement with adjoining landholders. Studies will also be undertaken into the feasibility of constructing the link and a staged implementation plan to assist both Council's in progressing the project.
Bass Coast Shire Council Mayor Cr Whelan noted just how important financial support for the planning stages of key infrastructure projects are.
"We're thrilled to be granted funding from the State Government to commence the planning and feasibility studies required for the Woolamai to Nyora extension.
"This funding will enable us to be better informed on the costs and feasibility of constructing this extension."
"I'm really pleased with the collaboration between South Gippsland Shire Council and the support from Destination Gippsland and One Gippsland in progressing this project."
South Gippsland Shire Council Mayor, Mayor Mohya Davies:
"We are excited about the recent announcement made by the Victorian Government."
"A connection between the Bass Coast and Great Southern Rail Trails would have many economic benefits for our regions and will provide valuable recreational links between local communities."
"Work is already underway to extend the Great Southern Rail Trail to Nyora in one direction and Alberton in the other. Determining the feasibility of a link between Woolamai and Nyora, is a terrific next step."
"We look forward to seeing the outcomes of the planning study."
The Woolamai to Nyora extension is a vital connection for the Gippsland Odyssey trail, which will bring huge economic and social benefits to the region.
Destination Gippsland Chief Executive Officer, Terry Robinson, said:
"The long-term vision for the Gippsland Odyssey is to develop Australia's longest rail trail with supporting experiences, in partnership with all of Gippsland's Local Government Areas, to link all rail trail corridors and shared pathways throughout Gippsland. It's great to see Bass Coast and South Gippsland Shire Councils take the lead on this part of the extension."
Keep up to date and learn more about the Gippsland Odyssey Resources
