Community celebrate Great Southern Rail Trail extension opening

More than 100 locals gathered in Alberton on Friday 16 August, normally home to just shy of 300 people, to celebrate the official opening of the 21km extension of the Great Southern Rail Trail in the South Gippsland area of The Middle of Everywhere.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Wellington Shire Councillor Garry Stephens and South Gippsland Shire Councillor John Schelling, with Rail Trails Australia President, Damian McCrohan sharing the trail’s history.

This long-awaited extension connecting Welshpool to Alberton, completes the trail’s remarkable 131km stretch from Yarram to Nyora and is now the second-longest trail in Victoria.

The extension, which has been eagerly anticipated by the community, is a testament to the strength of local partnerships. The project was a collaborative effort, with Wellington Shire Council managing the 14km stretch within its boundary and South Gippsland Shire Council overseeing the remaining 7km.

In a boost for the local economy, the completed trail is set to attract a diverse range of visitors, including walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. Its accessible paths and gentle slopes making it particularly popular with families for day trips and weekend getaways, where activities like picnicking, birdwatching, and leisurely walks and bike riding can be enjoyed. Accommodation and hospitality businesses are also set to expand as more visitors opt for multi-day trips, staying overnight in towns along the trail.

The grand opening event kicked off in Yarram with a community bike ride and trail bike giveaway, courtesy of The Middle of Everywhere.

In the lead up to the ceremony, Wellington Shire Council Mayor Cr Bye expressed thanks to the Victorian Government for its funding, stating that the Great Southern Rail Trail has become an exciting tourist destination, giving visitors a unique way to explore The Middle of Everywhere and enjoy the natural beauty of South Gippsland.

On the day, Wellington Shire Councillor Garry Stephens spoke to the crowd saying,

“The trail extension has been years in the making and it is incredibly rewarding to see it finally come to life. I’m proud of what both councils have accomplished, and I’m excited to welcome visitors from across Victoria and beyond to experience all that it has to offer.

South Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Cr Williams commented on the successful partnership between both councils and the advantages of extending the Trail.

“The extension of the Great Southern Rail Trail really highlights the importance of collaboration between our two Councils. Together, we have brought to our communities a Trail that promotes healthy lifestyles, economic viability and visitation. I look forward to the continued success of this important community asset.”

Final interpretive and wayfinding signage is expected to be installed by the end of 2024.

The extension was made possible through $6 million from the Victorian Government Regional Infrastructure Fund, via the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry, and Regions.

For more information, visit www.themiddleofeverywhere.com.au or www.visitsouthgippsland.com.au.