Visitors to Timboon in the Twelve Apostles hinterland will be able to enjoy easier access to the town's award-winning gourmet sweets, spirits, tourist sites and lush open spaces - with a new footbridge across Power Creek now complete.
Supported by the Albanese and Allan Labor governments through the Geelong City Deal, the new footbridge provides a direct link between two of Timboon's iconic tourist attractions - Timboon Fine Ice Cream and the Timboon Railway Shed Distillery.
It will provide safe pedestrian and rail trail access, and encourage visitors to spend more time discovering the town's scenic landscape and local charm.
New pathways to access the bridge and picnic tables have been constructed and installed to enhance the visitor experience in Timboon and bring the precinct to life.
The project was supported by Timboon Fine Ice Cream, Timboon Railway Shed Distillery, Beach Energy, Power Creek Committee of Management, Heytesbury Landcare, the local Men's Shed and Lions Club and Corangamite Shire Council.
Local volunteers were central to the project's delivery, with 35 community members coming together to plant 850 native plants and grasses to replace noxious, invasive weeds around Power Creek during a community action day.
Ten new jobs were created during construction of the footbridge and surrounding upgrades, which are expected to have a range of flow-on economic benefits for the small town.
The project was funded under the Geelong City Deal's Private Sector Business Enablement Fund - which supports infrastructure projects that activate private sector investment in the Shipwreck Coast and Great Ocean Road region.
For more information, visit: rdv.vic.gov.au/grants-and-programs/geelong-city-deal/private-sector-business-enablement-fund
As stated by Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain:
"Delivering this new footbridge in Timboon is a real testament to what can be achieved when all levels of government work together with communities to progress their priority projects.
"We're committed to enhancing local infrastructure and to activating local economies, which is exactly what this new footbridge will support."
As stated by Federal Labor Senator for Victoria, Raff Ciccone:
"Timboon is a hidden gem near the Great Ocean Road, which is why we want to make it easier for locals and tourists to experience everything that it has to offer.
"It's fantastic to see this new footbridge complete thanks to investment from all levels of government and support from local businesses and volunteers - making it that little bit easier for people to immerse themselves in our iconic views and outstanding food."
As stated by Victorian Minister for Regional Development, the Hon Gayle Tierney MP:
"Timboon is a town that many people hold close to their heart, and we're pleased to see projects like these supporting local businesses to continue to grow and thrive.
"This project will support Timboon to continue to be a leading destination for tourism and economic activity for years to come."
As stated by Corangamite Shire Council Mayor, Cr Kate Makin:
"The footbridge is another valuable link connecting attractions and public spaces in Timboon.
"It's really exciting to see business and community work together to continue to improve the town."
As stated by Timboon Fine Ice Cream owner, Tim Marwood:
"There is real potential to attract more visitors to Timboon by making it easier for visitors to get around the town, and I'm looking forward to seeing that potential realised."
