Moyne Shire Council in South Western Victoria is looking to revamp the former railway line between the Victorian coastal town of Port Fairy and Dennington into a recreation trail. Port Fairy is a major tourist destination and home to the acclaimed Folk Festival.
Moyne Business and Tourism Director, James Purcell, said Council had appointed a study team, led by West Australian trail planner Mike Maher, to consult with the community on the project. The public consultation had addressed most concerns about the project through public meetings and walking the trail.
The original railway line had become overgrown in places, weeds have taken over, fences have deteriorated and the old bridges have become unusable since the railway ceased operations in 1977.
Mike Maher, who has been involved in several other Australian rail trail studies, said the consulting team would compile a detailed report on the works needed along the reserve for use by walkers and cyclists. These improvements would include trail surfacing, fencing and gates, restoring a bridge, safe road crossings, signposting and interpretation. The study would include a review of the concerns of neighbouring landowners, and devise solutions to any issues raised.
The study would also identify links from the trail to other local and regional attractions. It is also hoped that the study will reveal ways to improve the look of the corridor through appropriate revegetation and landscaping.
James Purcell said trails are community resources, and so is this railway corridor.
“The feasibility study should reflect what the community wants from this trail. So many people use and enjoy trails, and they bring all kinds of benefits – exercise and good health, relaxation, environmental awareness, economic benefits for small towns and more.
“We want to know what the community feels about the proposal to develop the trail and the various management issues.
“Similar studies have shown that trails can bring benefits to adjoining landowners with decreased crime through ‘community policing’ and a convenient recreational resource right on their doorstep.”
For details contact Dean Robertson on (03) 5568 2600.
