Bike riders are campaigning for the construction of a crucial missing 7km cycling link on the Bellarine Peninsula.
The proposed 'Pier to Vines' trail, between Portarlington and Drysdale, would extend the Bellarine Coastal Trail beyond Point Richards along the coast to McAdams Lane, then follow the Portarlington-Geelong Road through Clifton Springs before finishing at the Drysdale Bypass.
From here, riders could connect with the Bellarine Rail Trail and head safely towards Geelong or Queenscliff.
The proposed trail would also connect riders with most of the region's wineries.
The trail is in line with the City of Greater Geelong's Shared Trails Masterplan (2020), which lays out a guide to encouraging active travel, recreation and tourism in the region and identified the proposed connection as a missing link.
Bellarine Bicycle User Group (BBUG) argues that the missing link would encourage tourism in the region, connecting the two existing excellent trails (Bellarine Coastal Trail and Bellarine Rail Trail) for riders of all abilities.
"BBUG is advocating for a network of shared trails linking coastal villages, hinterland towns and key entry points," said BBUG co-convenors Vicki Perrett and Jeremy Klitzing.
"The infrastructure investment would enable the Bellarine Peninsula to become a year-round tourism destination.
"BBUG’s top priority is closing the critical 7km gap between Portarlington and Drysdale.
"Featuring spectacular views across Port Phillip Bay to the You Yangs, the trail would enhance access to wineries, townships and local attractions while creating a safer, more connected experience for cyclists, walkers and visitors alike."
You can offer your support and sign up for campaign updates here.
Or become our friend and subscribe to receive our fortnightly newsletter.