Council is delighted to join Mitchell and Mansfield Shire Councils to deliver the Great Victorian Rail Trail Strategic Development Plan, following endorsement at its 24 June meeting.
As Australia's longest continuous rail trail, the 134 km Great Victorian Rail Trail (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 our 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 our 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.
'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.
'The Plan includes a 3-year action plan, which comprises 18 individual projects. One of the areas the Plan looks at is how we engage local businesses that are associated with the GVRT, including those in the key trail towns of Yea, Molesworth, Alexandra and Yarck. 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', Cr Dunscombe added.
To view and download the Plan, click here and find Great Victorian Rail Trail Strategic Development Plan. If you have any questions about the Plan, please give Council a call on 5772 0333.
