Bicycle Network: Regional Routes

Tarra Trail funding in the bank, tenders called for

7 August 2009. Wellington Shire Council and the Tarra Trail Committee recently received $200,000 in funding from Regional Development Victoria to begin construction from Yarram to Alberton. The Trail will eventually extend to Port Albert and connect to the planned extension of the Great Southern Rail Trail.

The tender process is expected to open soon, with construction to be underway shortly afterwards. Stage one of the trail consists of construction from Yarram to Alberton. $100,000 in funding has also been promised to being on stage two from Alberton to Port Albert, so progress is very exciting.

With the moratorium on development of the Great Southern Rail Trail past Foster recently lifted, this Trail is poised to take some giant steps forward, and continue to establish itself amongst the upper echelon of Rail Trails in Victoria.

Please thank Regional Development Minister Jacinta Allan for continuing to support the development of Rail Trails and bike riding in regional Victoria.

Council support for the trail increasing

Jun 07 The Friends of Tarra Trail and Bicycle Network Victoria recently met with the Wellington Shire Councilors. The presentation detailed the project, its benefits and the funding requirements.

It is hoped that the recently completed feasibility study and the strong support for the trail will result in council committing funds to the project. The State Government has shown interest in joint funding the project so we could see construction beginning next year.

If you would like to show your support for the project you can email the Wellington Shire Mayor by clicking here.

Locals working hard to cash in on government funding

Feb 07 A committed groups of locals from Alberton, Yarram and Port Albert have almost finished a feasibility study for the Tarra Trail. The trail will be approximately 15km long following disused train line from Yarram to Alberton and disused tram line and existing paths from Alberton to Port Albert.

The trail will travel through some beautiful countryside and coastal areas and will finish in the  popular coastal retreat of Port Albert. This trail will be an immediate success and will bring huge financial benefits to the region.

The long term vision is for the trail to connect with the Great Southern Rail Trail, which currently runs from Leongatha to Foster.

The next step is to submit a funding application to Regional Development Victoria, the state government body that is responsible for funding rail trails. The project is likely to cost between $500,000 and $1 million.

Click on 'email me updates' above to stay in touch with the project.