Visitors and cyclists will be able to enjoy more of the High Country's natural beauty through an extension to the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, thanks to a $5.2 million investment from the Allan Labor Government.
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes today represented Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney in Yackandandah to officially open the almost 32 kilometre extension of world-class cycling trail.
The project supported more than 34 jobs during construction and more than 7,600 additional visitors are estimated to use the trail annually, supporting the creation of 28 ongoing jobs and generating an extra $3.1 million of visitor expenditure in the region.
The extension to the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail connects Beechworth to Yackandandah, and Yackandandah to Osbornes Flat, make the most of the High Country's natural beauty.
Nine bridges and an innovative elevated boardwalk have been built across the new trail to offer scenic views of the waterways and surrounding scenery, helping to attract more visitors and cyclists from across Australia and beyond.
The trail extension was completed in seven sections, with each section open to the public to use after completion.
The trail now spans more than 180 kilometres across several routes and has already supported the North East region's tourism-led economic recovery, strengthening the region's reputation as a world-class cycling destination.
Funding for the rail trail project was a direct response to the Ovens Murray Regional Partnership, which identified increasing cycle tourism as a key priority.
This project is a part of the Labor Government's record $45 billion investment since 2014 in projects and programs that support regional and rural Victoria to be an even better place to live, work, stay, and play. For more information go to rdv.vic.gov.au(opens in a new window)
As stated by Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney
"This investment will help showcase the High Country as a vibrant and scenic destination for visitors near and far, supporting sustainable tourism, boosting economic growth, and creating vital job opportunities."
As stated by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
"The North East is quickly growing its reputation as a top destination for trail cycling through Ride High Country, and this extension to the High Country's Murray to Mountains Rail Trail will strengthen that reputation and bring even more visitors to the region."
As stated by Indigo Shire Council Acting CEO Sally Rice
"It's great to see the new sections of rail trail being used by the community and visitors alike and I have no doubt it will only continue to grow in popularity in the years to come."
