Gippsland › Latest news › Bass Coast Local News
World-renowned palaeontologists Pat Vickers-Rich and Tom Rich discuss Bass Coast Dinosaurs Trail in Inverloch
Two of the world's leading palaeontologists along with scientific researchers and educators have gathered to discuss the importance of the Bass Coast Dinosaurs Trail in Inverloch.
The Dinosaurs Trail symposium was organised by Bass Coast Shire Council and included representatives from Parks Victoria, the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, representatives from regional tourism organisations and members of the Bass Coast Arts and Culture Advisory Committee. Bass Coast Shire Council Mayor Michael Whelan said the focus of the symposium was to articulate how this Dinosaurs Trail project can showcase the significance of the region, drive the visitor economy and support liveability.
Bass Coast Shire Dinosaur Trail has attracted two of the well known palaeontologists Pat Vickers-Rich and Tom Rich and discussed the significance of polar dinosaurs in the region
Connecting to natural world
Cr Whelan said, "There is a groundswell of excitement building around the Bass Coast Dinosaurs Trail project and council is excited to be driving this incredible initiative forward."
"I am personally very excited. It is a true legacy project for council to be at the forefront of creating a world class tourism experience that celebrates the work of scientists, volunteers and the international significance of polar dinosaurs to the Australian Continent."
"This project brings an incredible connection to our natural world; it talks to us about why the world is so precious and of course it provides some learning for us." Cr Whelan said.
Attracting more visitors
World-renowned palaeontologists, Pat Vickers-Rich and Tom Rich, researcher Lesley Kool and educator Mike Cleeland, who are the namesakes of Victoria's fossil emblem Koolasuchus cleelandi, spoke to the 60 strong crowd about the significance of polar dinosaurs in the region.
The state government this year backed the Bass Coast Dinosaurs Trail with a $500,000 funding boost, through the Investment Fast Track Fund, to accelerate the project which will attract thousands of extra visitors and inject millions into the local economy.
Unique visitor experience
This unique experience will include six creative art sites from San Remo via Wonthaggi to Inverloch, and a Cultural Discovery Centre in Inverloch. Together, these separate, but interconnected experiences will link science, education and creative arts to provide a visitor experience of epic proportions.
Bass Coast Shire Council last year purchased land in Wonthaggi for $1.2 million to create an interactive sound and light 'Gondwana Garden'. Once developed it will feature sculptural forms and prehistoric planting. The gardens will showcase unique vegetation from 125 million years ago and the landscape in which polar dinosaurs once inhabited.
Pictures from Bass Coast Shire Council Facebook page.
Source: www.gippsland.com
Published by: news@gippsland.com

Gippsland Water offers face-to-face bill help at pop-up sessions across Latrobe, Baw Baw and Wellington

Martin Cameron slams Allan government's ongoing neglect of Hazelwood North CFA volunteers and urgent station upgrades

Southern Rural Water announces safer bridge boosting Clydebank access and safety with modern standards by November

'Amp It Up' youth conference empowers East Gippsland students with inspiration and resilience on 23 July 2025

Baw Baw Shire Council seeks community feedback on five key strategic plans to guide council's next four years by 3 August 2025

Darren Chester warns Labor's new car tax will hit Gippsland families, hikes cost of utes, SUVs, four-wheel-drives, vehicles

Darren Chester, RSL unite to support Gippsland Veterans, challenge negative myths, highlight service strengths and opportunities

Forge Theatre ignites East Gippsland with comedy, music, storytelling and bold performances this winter season

Gippsland Water summer internship is now open, offering students practical experience from November 2025 to February 2026
