The benefits of rail trails and what they actually do for regional economies is what Deputy Premier Peter Ryan and National candidate for Euroa Stephanie Ryan both understand very well. Mitchell Bicycle User Group and the Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail representatives met with Peter and Stephanie on 21 May, specifically to seek their support for the Wallan to Heathcote Rail Trail proposal.
North Central Review article – 3 June 2014
This interlinking trail proposal is unique, in that it is planned not only to connect the whole of Melbourne’s trail network directly into regional Victoria, this trail will also connect a number of existing ‘stand alone’ rail trails to form a significant network of rail trails across Victoria. Peter and Stephanie were impressed with the work that had gone into the proposal, understood the ease of public transport connections, and both expressed their support for the concept.
Seeking Nationals support for the Wallan-Wandong to Heathcote Rail Trail
Lindsay Clay (FBKRT), Pauline Duff (MBUG), Garry Long (FBKRT), Peter Ryan (Dep Premier), Steph Ryan (National candidate-Euroa), Les Lewis (FBKRT)
With financial commitments made by the Mitchell Shire Council and the City of Greater Bendigo Council for a feasibility study, the community awaits a commitment from the Victorian State Government. It is viewed that the Wallan to Heathcote Rail Trail proposal will emerge as an important popular tourism and recreational asset for Victoria. The trail network will also provide a much needed economic boost for a number of regional communities.
