New Cycling Strategy for Northern Victorian Region

Kerang, Victoria

Walking and cycling infrastructure in north-western Victoria is set to be boosted by a Walking and Cycling Strategy adopted by Gannawarra Shire Council recently.

The 21 actions in the strategy include a proposed 22km Kerang to Koondrook Rail Trail, along a former tramways route from Kerang from the Koondrook Wharf.

The Victorian government awarded $500,000 funding to start the planning and design work for the cycling and walking trail, which is ultimately planned to extend from Kerang to a proposed Lake Charm Eco-Trail.

The Kerang-Koondrook Tramways route was an important supply chain for early colonialists living on the Victorian-NSW border and is hoped to become a popular outdoor adventure attraction for the Gannawarra Shire.

Trail proposals in the strategy also include a Kerang Lakes Eco-Trail and a multisport adventure trail extending along the Murray River within the Murray tourism region in Victoria and NSW.

The council is exploring the potential for a Kerang Lakes Eco-Trail in partnership with Kerang Landcare, to link the townships of Kerang and Lake Charm. It would traverse through natural bushland, starting within Kerang Regional Park and connecting with the Murray River Adventure Trail.

The adventure trail is proposed to use land and water to incorporate walking, cycling, kayaking/canoeing and other forms of water transport, extending from Lake Hume, near Albury Wodonga in the east, to Mildura, Wentworth in the west.

It will traverse secluded river red gum forests and major settlements along the length of the Murray River and provide opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the Murray River’s natural settings.

A study to develop the strategy identified the extensive network of footpaths and tracks already in the council area, and consulted with the community to identify priorities to build upon those facilities.