Alpine Shire Council has welcomed $150,000 in Victorian Government funding to establish the Alpine Community Plantation project, which will see nearly 20,000 hectares of Hancock Victorian Plantation (HVP) pines made available for recreational use.
Council’s Manager Economic Development, Clayton Neil said the project was the first of its kind in the country and was a big step forward in cementing the Alpine Shire as a premier mountain biking destination.
“This is a fantastic project dedicated to enhancing our nature-based tourism product,” said Mr Neil.
“This is a genuine and unique partnership between HVP, Council and the community to build on the Alpine Shire’s cycle tourism offer — it’s very exciting.
“The project redefines how this kind of infrastructure will be built and highlights the economic benefit of partnerships between communities, councils
and companies.”
The project will see the construction of 140km of trails for mountain biking and provide an estimated local economic boost of $4.75 million each year.
Council and HVP will each contribute $25,000 to the project, with the community contributing $25,000 in in-kind support.
Mr Neil said the Alpine Community Plantation project will be supported by events and marketing to make the most of this valuable asset.
“We are extremely lucky to have an initiative like this taking place here in the Alpine Shire – we will certainly be making the most of it now and into the future.
“This has a positive impact on the types of activities the Shire is already renowned for – mountain biking, bushwalking and air sports.
“We recognise the value of the project and will work hard to maximise its value to the benefit of the local economy,” concluded Mr Neil.
