Bass Coast Shire Council, in partnership with South Gippsland Shire Council, is excited to announce the opening of a community survey on the Engage Bass Coast website. This survey is a key part of the ongoing Feasibility Study for the Woolamai-Nyora rail trail extension, funded by the State Government's Investment Fast Track Fund.
The 25-kilometre Woolamai-Nyora section is a crucial missing link in the impressive 1,100-kilometre Gippsland Odyssey Trail. Once completed, the Gippsland Odyssey will be one of Australia's longest trails, providing vital new active recreation and commuter links for the community while transforming the region's tourism infrastructure. This project is a key component of Council's overall Tracks and Trails Strategy which is aimed at enhancing recreational opportunities and connectivity throughout the region.
The purpose of the Feasibility Study is to identify all requirements that would need to be met to enable this project to proceed to detailed design and construction. The development of the Study will include identifying any permits, approvals and structural requirements that would be needed to construct this trail. It will also include extensive engagement with affected landowners, local community and potential user groups.
Bass Coast Shire Council Mayor, Cr Clare Le Serve, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, "The Woolamai-Nyora rail trail extension Feasibility Study is a vital part of investigating our vision for a connected and active community and enhancing Bass Coast as an active Tourism destination. We are committed to engaging with our residents and stakeholders to ensure the Feasibility Study meets the needs and aspirations of our community. I encourage everyone to participate in the survey and have their say in shaping the future of this proposed trail."
Community and stakeholder engagement is at the heart of this project. The first step in the Study process involved meetings with landowners along the proposed trail route. Council then held community meetings at Woodleigh and Kernot Community Halls. Further discussions are being conducted with individual property owners along the corridor from Woolamai to Nyora relating to land management requirements.
Bass Coast Shire Council have completed an economic impact assessment for this project. The Woolamai to Nyora section of the Gippsland Odyssey Trail is expected to inject $875,000 in direct economic benefit to the region throughout the planning phase of the project and a further $36.12 million in direct economic benefit throughout the construction phase.
Council now invites all community members to participate in the survey on the Engage Bass Coast website to share their views and help shape the future of this transformative project.
