Its official, the O’Keefe Rail Trail’s latest extension between Axedale and Heathcote is now open for business.
Monday 21 December 2015 saw Jacinta Allan, Member for Bendigo East and Minister for Public Transport and Employment, and Mayor Cr Rod Fyffe City of Greater Bendigo, officially open the new extension of the now 49km off-road trail linking Heathcote, Knowsley, Axedale, Junortoun and Bendigo.
Attendees at O’Keefe Rail Trail Offical Opening 21 Dec 2015. Photo: Les Lewis
With a crowd of over 100 people attending the opening, it was an indication of the interest in this trail. Minister Allan, Mayor Fyffe and Friends of Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail President Garry Long unveiled a plaque to recognise the occasion. It was a fitting tribute to the support that Jacinta had made to this project, as well as committing the Victorian State Government to supporting a feasibility study in 2016 for a ‘Wallan to Heathcote Rail Trail’ proposal.
O’Keefe Rail Trail Offical Opening 21 Dec 2015.
Prior to the plaque unveiling, Garry thanked Jacinta for her continuing support, the City of Greater Bendigo Councillors and staff commitment to co-fund and build this new trail, and also community members for their passionate support over the past 6 years. This support and involvement has now created a lasting community asset, to help improve community health and wellbeing, plus be an important tourist attraction that is expected to contribute significantly to Heathcote and Axedale’s economy.
O’Keefe Rail Trail Plaque – Offical Opening 21 Dec 2015. Photo: Les Lewis
