Almost 100 Golden Plains school children were joined by Member for Western Victoria David O’Brien and Golden Plains Shire Council CEO Rod Nicholls as they enjoyed a ride along the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail in October.
The ride took place to celebrate the official opening of the ‘Linking Townships to Trails’ project, which has seen many enhancements made along the trails in the region.
A Bicycle Network survey found that towns could miss out on tourist dollars if they are not easily accessible from a rail trail. Council believes this investment in Golden Plains trails will lead to real economic benefit for local businesses.
Mayor of Golden Plains Shire Jenny Blake said at the official opening that the project aimed to create greater links between businesses and communities in townships along the Ballarat-Skipton Trail, the Rainbow Bird Trail and the Kuruc-a-ruc Trail.
“The project has seen the installation of new interpretive and directional signs, visitor information points and improved amenities to provide visitors with better access to the shops, features and attractions in the towns along the trails.”
Visitors and local residents will be able to learn more about the rich history of the region and will find the trails an appealing way to take part in healthy, outdoor exercise when they walk, and cycle from town to town.
Town maps and brochures have been developed to help visitors make the most of their time in Golden Plains, providing local township information and self-guided tour options.
Cr Blake said a new smartphone app called ‘Bike, Walk, Ride’ had been created so visitors could find detailed information about the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail.
“Using the app, people can even ‘race the train’ and time their trip along sections of the Trail against the timetable of the original train.”
The project was officially opened by David O’Brien, Member for Western Victoria. The Victorian Government’s ‘Putting Locals First: Improved Local Infrastructure’ program contributed $97,000 to the $130,000 project.
