Gippsland › Latest news › East Gippsland Local News
Omeo Mountain Bike Trails can proceed as planned
Mountain bikers, tourism operators and supporting businesses are jumping with joy following news that the Omeo Mountain Bike Trails can proceed as planned.
East Gippsland Shire Council was yesterday notified of a successful outcome following a Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) hearing held last month. Mayor Cr Mark Reeves said it was a day for celebration.
Particular attention is being placed on rider safety, with good trail design and maintenance will help minimise injuries
Flocking to Omeo
Cr Reeves said, "This news will resonate throughout the hills - Omeo and East Gippsland will be on the cycle-tourism map. People will be flocking to Omeo from across Victoria, Australia and the world to experience what we have to offer,"
The VCAT decision did not change the conditions on the planning permit for the trials, nor did it make any changes. The VCAT Member saw no need to change the location of any of the proposed trails.
"This ratifies the high level of detail our planning team went through in assessing this project and that how they had assessed the proposal was correct. A great result," Cr Reeves said.
Finalising the contract and construction
Council officers will meet with the contractor, Common Ground Trails, this week to finalise the contract and revised construction program. Construction is expected to start next year, but more details will be announced soon.
The project - 121 kilometres of cross-country and downhill gravity trails - had been through a long and detailed development phase, including the development of a master plan and business plan before a contract was awarded for the construction of Stage 1 in April this year.
Patience has been much appreciated
Cr Reeves also said, "Designed by mountain bike trail design specialists, the trails will stack up with some of the best. Coupled with renowned High Country hospitality and ingenuity, we are now all looking forward to the economic stimulation this project can deliver."
Cr Reeves praised the community for sticking with the project and riding out the bumps. "The community has been heavily invested both financially and emotionally and its patience has been much appreciated as the planning and appeals process has played out. Now, I join with the Omeo Region community in saying 'let's get the trails built'." Cr Reeves said.
Pictures from East Gippsland Shire Council Facebook page.
Source: http://gippsland.com/
Published by: news@gippsland.com
Latest News
Baw Baw Shire residents urged to participate in 2026 Community Satisfaction Survey phone interviews
Community feedback strengthens Wellington's Road Management Plan, highlighting priorities for road upgrades

East Gippsland kids invited to join and send entries for National Water Week poster competition by 12 September 2025

Future Wellington Community feedback shapes draft plans, final input invited before 16 July 2025

Gippsland Water commits to keeping customer bills affordable despite cost of living pressures

Have your say on Latrobe's draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026 - 2029 until 29 July 2025

Latrobe City Council endorses new Council Plan and Community Vision 2025-2029 to guide Latrobe's future growth

Wellington Shire Councillors advocate for region's needs at National Local Government Assembly in Canberra on 24 - 27 June 2025

East Gippsland tourism and hospitality masterclass to build sustainable, resilient businesses and grow positive

Southern Rural Water celebrates 30 years of service with modernisation, partnerships and sustainable water
