The 2014 Victorian State elections have resulted in a change of government, with the new Premier Daniel Andrews and his government ministers taking the oath of office in front of Governor Alex Chernov at Government House.
History was also made with the first member for the new seat of Euroa, Nationals candidate Stephanie Ryan being elected. At age 28 years, Stephanie has also been elected as the Nationals new deputy leader.
Jacinta Allan MLA was returned as the member for Bendigo East, with the added responsibility in the new government as the Minister for Public Transport and Employment.
In the lead up to the 29th November election, both Stephanie Ryan (News article) and Jacinta Allan both supported the proposal for the Heathcote to Wallan rail trail. Ms Allan together with Clare Malcolm, the then Labor candidate for Euroa, announced on 22 November (News article) that the Labor Party would be committed to fund a $150,000 feasibility study for this rail trail proposal if elected to government.
The community, along with the Mitchell Shire Council and the City of Greater Bendigo Council, now look forward to the new Victorian government honouring this pre election commitment, to enable a feasibility study into this Victorian trail network linking rail trail to commence in early 2015.