Push for rail trail on old Maryborough line

A DISUSED railway line between Castlemaine and Maryborough could be repurposed into sixty kilometres of bike path.

A recently released report, commissioned by the Victorian Government, outlined the potential benefits of the rail trail, including a boost to tourism, jobs, and First Nations-led “experiences and engagement.”

Castlemaine-Maryborough Rail Trail Association president Dr Janice Simpson said there would be many benefits to the project.

“A trail can help thread the many powerful attractions this region has and knit the communities along the trail even closer together,” she said.

“Rail trails in other regions have shown how they can bring added prosperity to smaller communities through jobs and new businesses. This trail will too.”

“The trail offers another way for families to enjoy the outdoors together, and for adults and children to take safe, off-road commuting within the larger towns or between the towns.”

Member for Bendigo West, Maree Edwards, said the completion of the study was an important stage for the project.

“I congratulate the Castlemaine-Maryborough Rail Trail volunteers for their commitment so far, and I look forward to continuing to work with them in the years ahead,” she said.

Member for Ripon, Martha Haylett, said she looked forward to the next stages commencing.

“A future rail trail between Castlemaine and Maryborough would allow locals and tourists to experience the area’s beautiful landscapes even more, and support local jobs too,” she said.

Although more expensive to implement, the study suggested sealing the trail to make it accessible to different kinds of bikes and riding abilities and said doing so would also improve maintenance.

The estimated overall cost for the project is $37.6 million, and a cost-benefit model for a 10-year period is net $44.2 million, a ratio comparable to similar projects in Victoria.

The study was undertaken in part by Melbourne-based company Fitzgerald Frisby Landscape Architecture along with Central Goldfields and Mt Alexander shires, and the Castlemaine-Maryborough Rail Trail Association.