The path ahead: Authority releases draft trail strategy

A NEW strategy to make Victoria’s southwestern coastline a cornerstone piece of Australia’s tourism industry has been released in the form of a 69-page document for the community to review.

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) has released its draft Great Ocean Road Regional Trail Strategy 2024-2034, providing a framework for co-ordinated planning, management and promotion of trails across several regions.

Long noted as a crown jewel of Victoria’s landmarks, the Great Ocean Road features an expansive network of trails, with the new draft strategy aiming to connect and improve them over the next 10 years.

“Whether it’s walking, hiking, running, or mountain biking – trails allow people to actively enjoy the great outdoors,” GORCAPA director infrastructure and planning Cath Olive said.

“We recognise the need to collaborate with stakeholders to create an outstanding trails destination right here on the Great Ocean Road.”

The trails included in the strategy are: Proposed Anglesea Mountain Bike Trail Network (including the Anglesea Bike Park), Camperdown to Timboon Rail Trail, Forrest Mountain Bike Network, Proposed Great Ocean Road Coastal Trail, Great Ocean Walk, Otway Walks & Waterfalls, Old Beechy Rail Trail, Port Fairy to Warrnambool Rail Trail, Proposed Otway Hinterland Horse Trail, Surf Coast Walk, Twelve Apostles Trail and Warrnambool Foreshore Promenade.

 

More than 14 public entities are presently responsible for the trails in their ongoing development, infrastructure delivery, asset and emergency management, destination promotion, and the management of biocultural landscapes across the region.

GORCAPA stated the draft Strategy was produced in collaboration with organisations across the Great Ocean Road region, state departments and authorities, five local governments, Traditional Owners and various committees of management.

Ms Olive said the strategy aimed to bring together all these organisations to develop and manage an outstanding network of trails.

“Working together to improve trails across the region would strengthen our visitor economy, generate income and jobs, and improve our quality of life.

“Let us know which trails you use and the opportunities for the trail network.

“The region’s trails are a major attraction for visitors and an asset for residents, offering opportunities for walking and mountain biking, and providing access to areas of outstanding natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and unique recreational experiences.”

Trails listed in the strategy range from Torquay in the east to Port Fairy in the west, bound by the coast and Colac and Camperdown to the north.

Community consultation on the released draft Strategy will end on November 7.

To download the draft strategy document, head to haveyoursay.greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au/manytrails-onedirection