A 17.7 kilometre bicycle and walking trail that links Victorian towns Castlemaine and Maldon has been officially opened at a community celebration hosted by Mount Alexander Shire Council.
Mount Alexander Shire Mayor Sharon Telford was joined by State Member for Bendigo West Hon Maree Edwards MP to open the trail on Saturday 18 March.
The Castlemaine to Maldon Trail allows walkers and cyclists to enjoy stunning natural surroundings as they travel alongside the historic Victorian Goldfields Railway.
“The trail connects our two largest towns and is a wonderful addition to our walking and cycling network,” said the Mayor.
“It provides a new and interesting path for locals and visitors, with a flow-on effect for tourism and the local economy.
“We know that our community enjoys getting out and about, so the trail offers people the chance to see the countryside from a new perspective – whether they walk or cycle the entire length or complete the trail in sections.”
The trail links new paths with upgraded maintenance and access tracks. There is a feature boardwalk to the north of the Muckleford Railway Station, along with an accessible crossing over Muckleford Creek.
Race the Train event organiser Paula Ewing said the trail is a terrific asset for the shire.
“Mount Alexander Shire is a great place for on road and off road cycling with a mix of terrain to suit every rider.
“It’s fantastic to have a formal route for the annual Race the Train cycling event from Castlemaine and Maldon.
“Now everyone can enjoy the scenic views along the railway as they navigate their way between the two towns at leisure.”
Trail entry points are on Langslow Street in Castlemaine and near the Beehive Mine on Reef Street in Maldon. About six kilometres of the trail, on either side of Muckleford Station, is vehicle free.
The trail was funded under the State Government’s Local Infrastructure Fund.
