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Come Ride A Rail Trail In Country Victoria: Nats

Eastern Region MP, The Nationals’ Peter Hall, is urging cyclists to dust off their bikes and head for Gippsland’s rail trails to celebrate Bike Path Discovery Day on Sunday 4 March, if not earlier.

By The Nationals - 2nd February 2007 - Back to News

Mr Hall said taking to the bike trails around the region would help tourism, especially in those areas that have been affected by bushfires.

"Gippsland’s rail trails are among the best anywhere, from the Great Southern Rail Trail through to the East Gippsland Rail Trail," Mr Hall said.

"We have 11 rail trails in the region, of different lengths and through different countryside, that suits all levels of cyclists.

"Taking to the trails is also a really good way to offer support to those areas affected by the bushfires, as rail trails are a proven tourism winner. While some fires are still active, most rail trails and businesses in the affected areas are open for business and in serious need of the revenue brought by cycle tourists."

Mr Hall said the next few months would be a beautiful time of the year in Gippsland.

"Not only is it great for physical fitness, but cycle touring is also a great way to discover new towns and regions and sample the delights they have to offer."

Gippsland rail trails include the Great Southern Rail Trail (49km) from Leongatha to Foster; East Gippsland Rail Trail (94km) Bairnsdale to Newmeralla; Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail (Mississippi Creek Trail) (25.5km) Colquhoun to Lakes Entrance; Mirboo North - Boolarra Rail Trail (13km) Mirboo North to Boolarra; Bass Coast Rail Trail (16km) Anderson to Wonthaggi; Noojee Trestle Bridge Rail Trail (2.5km) Noojee to Trestle Bridge; Walhalla Goldfields Rail Trail (7km) Erica to Thomson; Tyers Junction Rail Trail (11km) Collins Siding to Tyers Junction; Moondarra Rail Trail (7km) Moondarra State Park; Moe - Yallourn Rail Trail (8km) Moe to Yallourn; and Gippsland Plains Rail Trail (25.5km), Glengarry to Cowwarr, Heyfield, and Stratford to Maffra.

Mr Hall encouraged people to visit Railtrails Australia’s website, www.railtrails.org.au to find out about the range of beautiful trails in the region and the state.

"Depending on the region you plan to visit it is also sensible to check the latest fire information before you head off. Call the Bushfire Information Line (1800 240 667) or visit DSE’s website: www.dse.vic.gov.au/fire to find out more."

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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