Work has started on the new 14km trail between Inverloch and Wonthaggi on the Bass Coast.
Boosted by a fresh $3 million state government Growing Suburbs Fund grant and a $4.7 million contribution from Bass Coast Shire, the project is expected to be completed by mid-2026.
It will connect to the existing Bass Coast Trail at Wonthaggi and creates a 57-kilometre trail from Inverloch through to Cowes on Phillip Island.
It will also connect to future 700km network of trails planned for the region, including a link to the Mornington Peninsula with a quick trip on the Phillip Island to Stony Point ferry.
The off-road inland pathway features attractions such as wetlands and native vegetation, which provide habitat for wildlife and glimpses of the Bass Coast.
This pathway enhances the current bio-link corridor which connects pockets of native vegetation. Bass Coast will be undertaking revegetation works in existing cleared areas as part of the project. The route uses a number of unused road reservations.
Minister for Suburbs Sonya Kilkenny says: "By supporting local councils to build better paths for walking and cycling, we’re making our communities more liveable and accessible, helping people get around more easily and admire our beautiful landscapes.”
The Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams says: “This investment builds on the 320 kilometres of new and upgraded paths and lanes we’ve delivered across the state, because we recognise the importance of improving active transport connections for Victorian communities.”
Bass Coast Mayor Cr Michael Whelan says the project has been one of the council’s top advocacy priorities and the $3 million funding announcement was excellent news.
“This project will have fantastic economic, social and recreational outcomes for residents and visitors to Bass Coast,” Cr Whelan says.
“Council committed to funding top strategic recreational pathway links that were identified as priorities in our Aspirational Pathways Plan. We are currently developing a Tracks and Trails Masterplan that will inform all future tracks, trails and pathways to be delivered with funding adopted in our Long Term Financial Plan.”
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