A new nine kilometre bicycle and walking trail providing the final link to the Murray River to the North Eastern Alpine Region is complete, with the final section opened today by Candy Broad MLC, Member for Northern Victoria Region.
Representing the Minister for Regional and Rural Development Jacinta Allan, Ms Broad said the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail was achieved with the help of a $495,000 Brumby Labor Government grant.
"This project has been rolling out in stages since 1997 with funding from local, state and federal Governments,” Ms Broad said.
”Today marks the completion of the final nine-kilometre section between Rutherglen and Wahgunyah.”
“It is a unique project in that the 94 kilometres of sealed bitumen track follows the railway corridors of yesteryear, revisiting the wonderful history of this region.”
Ms Broad said Brumby Labor Government funding for the trail was provided through the Regional Infrastructure Development Fund’s Provincial Pathways Program to develop rail trails and pathways across Victoria.
“The funding for the Murray Link is part of a wider strategy by the Brumby labor Government to develop Rail Trails and pathway infrastructure and we are delivering on a four-year, $7.6 million program and the Brumby Labor Government has added a further $10 million from the Victorian Transport Plan,” Ms Broad said.
She said the Rutherglen to Wahgunyah section of the trail was expected to attract 7500 new users annually and generate up to $1.4 million for the local economy.
“This final and exciting phase now links the Victorian tourism industry with tourism in Corowa, NSW via the John Foord and Federation Bridges," Ms Broad said.
“There is no doubting that this trail will continue to provide a social and economic boost for the Alpine and Indigo Shires and the Rural City of Wangaratta."
The launch also included a local competition for the best decorated bike, with Commonwealth Games Gold Medal Cyclist, Glenn Clarke on hand for a safety check.
The rail trail has become something of an icon to Northern Victoria, taking in such towns as Beechworth, Myrtleford and Bright. The new link completes this unique experience, providing opportunities to explore historic towns and renowned Victorian wine regions.