Restoration Works on O’Keefe Rail Trail

The City of Greater Bendigo Council has been undertaking maintenance works along the O’Keefe Rail Trail, a popular recreational and cycling route that connects Bendigo to Heathcote. The repairs are aimed at restoring sections of the trail that had sustained significant damage from previous flooding as well as recent infrastructure works.

During Spring 2022, heavy rainfall caused high water levels in Lake Eppalock resulting in flooding of the trail’s causeway. Erosion and surface damage had left several stretches unsafe or inaccessible to users, prompting temporary repairs by council at the time to reopen the trail.

In addition to that previous flood damage, a section of the trail in the Junortoun area was impacted by the installation of a communications optical fibre cable in 2024. While that project was part of a larger digital network servicing Victoria, the laying of the cable close to the trail had damaged the trail’s drains in various locations, necessitating follow-up repairs.

Machinery working on the trail. Photo: M. Joyce

Council’s contractor has undertaken regrading and resurfacing of both affected areas, with a focus on restoring the trail’s surface to its original condition. The restoration of specific drains is expected to reduce stormwater damage to the trail in the future.

Restored trail causeway surface, Lake Eppalock. Photo: M. Joyce

Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail President, Adrian Cummins, said the trail is a popular community asset and ensuring its usability and safety is a top priority.

“The O’Keefe Rail Trail is not only important for local recreation and tourism, but it also connects communities across the region,” Adrian said. “Our community group works closely with council, both highlighting maintenance issues as well as undertaking volunteer working bees, so that this popular trail remains enjoyable for everyone.”

Trail users are requested to comply with advisory signage where work activities are being undertaken, with this signage being in place to guide cyclists and walkers safely through the affected areas.