New Facility Works Recommence

Winter’s rainfall has held up site works for a rail trail related facility at Peppercorn Park, Longlea, after initial works were commenced in June 2023. The construction of toilets and a shelter building for users of the O’Keefe Rail Trail in the Longlea area has now recommenced.

Improved trail safety and toilet facilities at this site had been lobbied for over a number of years by the Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail group, on behalf of rail trail users and the community. With the City of Greater Bendigo council raising the priority of this need, its 2022-23 budget saw an allocation of $250,000 investment for the popular O’Keefe Rail Trail, supporting the positive benefits that flow into local economies.

It is expected that this council funded project, with volunteer input from the Friends group, will now be completed prior to June 2024. These works include a redesigned access road from Longlea Lane, off-road car parking spaces, toilets, a shelter, tables/seats, bike racks, a water holding tank, and landscaping. The final design and layout were agreed to by the Committee of Management for the Peppercorn Park Reserve.

For those who are planning rail trail adventures during the coming months, the popular O’Keefe Rail Trail will remain open for use during the project’s construction period. Yet trail users are advised to abide by signage and any directions given by the contractor’s staff, where applicable.

Trail users are encouraged to support the efforts of this active volunteer community group by being involved. It’s easy! Just contact us and become a member https://bendigokilmorerailtrail.com/contact-us/