As Victoria’s second-longest rail trail spanning the many farmlands, forests and townships across Gippsland, the complete Great Southern Rail Trail is an achievement well worth celebrating.
And that’s exactly what the local community have done, gathering in Alberton to mark the official opening of the 21km extension from Welshpool.
More than 100 locals attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday 16 August, following a community bike ride starting in Yarram.
“The trail extension has been years in the making and it is incredibly rewarding to see it finally come to life,” says Wellington Shire councillor Garry Stephens.
“I’m proud of what both councils have accomplished, and I’m excited to welcome visitors from across Victoria and beyond to experience all that it has to offer.”
From left, Wellington Shire Councillor Carmel Ripper, Councillor Marcus McKenzie, Rail Trails Australia President, Damian McCrohan, South Gippsland Shire Councillor John Schelling, Wellington Shire Councillor Garry Stephens, Member for South Gippsland Danny O’Brien and Judy Kennedy, a member of the original Tarra Trail committee.
The completed Great Southern Rail Trail stretches from Nyora to Yarram, with detours to Port Welshpool and Port Albert.
It is open to bike riders, walkers and horse riders, and while an ambitious rider could cover it in a day, there are plenty of reasons to slow down, break up the journey and soak up the sights along the way.
Attractions include the monthly exhibitions at the Meeniyan Art Gallery, the refreshments at Gurneys Cider, the many charming café stops or the iconic Fish Creek Hotel (see if you can sport the fish on the roof).
Finishing touches for the trail include interpretive and wayfinding signage, expected to be installed by the end of 2024.
Read more over at Rail Trails Australia.
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