Murrindindi Shire Council, together with the Yea Wetlands Discovery Centre Inc., is pleased to announce the commencement of a new walking trail project at the Yea Wetlands on Monday 11 November.
The Yea Wetlands Discovery Centre Inc. has been successful in receiving funding from the Victorian Government's Regional Tourism Investment Fund to complete the Kayigai Trail Project and has engaged Council to manage and oversee the construction of the Trail.
The Kayigai Trail includes the construction of approximately 200 metres of timber boardwalk, providing pedestrian access to the north and northwestern end of the Wetlands. Four new viewing platforms will also be installed, creating prime locations for nature observation.
The new trail will follow the Yea River, offering visitors closer access to the natural waterway environment. The viewing platforms are positioned in ideal spots for observing birds and wildlife, enhancing visitor experience by offering dedicated observation points in the wetlands.
While impacts to visitors will be minimal, please be aware that during the construction phase, some parts of the wetlands will be fenced off for safety, as machinery will be in use.
To reduce contractor engagement costs and minimise heavy machinery presence in this ecologically sensitive area, construction of the Kayigai Trail has been coordinated to coincide with preliminary flood recovery works. Council acknowledges the joint funding support for flood recovery from the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments under the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangement.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation while we complete this project, and we look forward to the enriched natural experience this trail will provide.
Stay updated on this project and other projects on our Council Projects and Works page.
Murrindindi Shire Council's CEO Livia Bonazzi said "The Yea Wetlands is one of Murrindindi Shire's natural treasures. The Kayigai Trail will further improve this beautiful area, enabling both visitors and locals to enjoy it with minimal environmental impact. I look forward to experiencing this new trail at its completion."
Yea Wetlands Committee Chair Don Knight said "The Yea Wetlands Discovery Centre Association, managing the Victorian State Government & Community funded grant project, 'Yea Wetlands Discover Experience', is delighted to partner with Murrindindi Shire Council to install the Kayigai Trail."
"This milestone follows two years of planning, delayed by major flood events. Council's role in project management, including tender processes, has ensured we achieve the best value for the community. The cooperation between our organisations has been excellent, meeting a key skills need for the association. We look forward to the timely completion of this 600-metre trail, with boardwalks, gravel pathways and bird observation hides in the Wetlands' northern zone."
"The project's final phase will enhance the tourism experience, benefiting the community and adding to the Yea Wetlands' growing acclaim."
