Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has secured funding to upgrade walking tracks in the historic Traralgon Railway Reservoir Conservation Reserve as part of his $280,000 Active Gippsland initiative.
Mr Chester said the Federal Government would fund the replacement of two key bridges providing walkers with access to a loop of walking tracks.
“Encouraging Gippslanders to get more active, more often is a passion of mine,” Mr Chester said. “Investing in better facilities on public land is good for tourism and the liveability of our local communities.
“At the Traralgon Railway Reserve, we are funding the replacement of two bridges which are key links to the entire loop of pathways in the 30 hectare reserve.
“Further investment in infrastructure like shared pathways, exercise equipment and bike trails complement Gippsland’s array of natural attractions.
“The Traralgon Railway Reserve has been listed on Trip Advisor as one of the top things to do in Traralgon. Improving what’s available at the site and nearby will add to the visitor experience, create more jobs and help our region prosper.”
The Traralgon Railway Reserve features around three kilometres of walking tracks. The lake in the middle is part of the Traralgon Creek catchment and was originally a dam, established in the late 1800s. The reserve is home to a large number of aquatic plants and birdlife.
The Active Gippsland funding package comprises:
· $30,000 to replace two bridges at Traralgon Railway Reservoir Conservation Reserve;
· $100,000 for outdoor fitness equipment along Loch Sport’s foreshore;
· $100,000 to reseal East Gippsland Rail Trail between Bairnsdale and Nicholson; and
· $50,000 for the first stage of an all-abilities accessible boardwalk along Cunninghame Arm, Lakes Entrance.
Mr Chester said the funding was also an investment in the economic health of Gippsland’s towns and communities.
“It will increase the number of visitors to our towns and the length of their stay, which in turn supports local businesses,” Mr Chester said.
The Active Gippsland funding package is among a number of significant Federal Government investments secured by Mr Chester and designed to boost the visitor economy and outdoor activity.
Other projects include the Traralgon-Morwell shared pathway ($1.6 million), the Haunted Hills Bike Park ($976,500), the Metung boardwalk ($300,000), a viewing platform at Jemmys Point ($750,000), mountain bike trails in Omeo ($1.5 million), and Gippsland Plains Rail Trail upgrade ($267,000).
