Council is taking a strategic approach to its valuable network of local tracks and trails, with the goal of securing key funding and identifying future projects.

Council will apply to the Victorian Government's Enabling Tourism Fund to support the development of an Alpine Shire Tracks and Trails Masterplan.

Alpine Shire Mayor Sarah Nicholas said Council will apply for $500,000 in funding, and commit a further $125,000 to the project.

“The Alpine Shire Tracks and Trails Masterplan project encompasses the Kiewa, Lower Ovens and Upper Ovens Valleys, as well as Dinner Plain,” she said.

“We know how important our network of tracks and trails are to our community and visitors - we also know that they can be improved and made more accessible.

“The goal of the masterplan is to identify and prioritise the missing elements in Council’s tracks and trails offering, including missing links in the existing network, opportunities to expand, improved access to amenities and opportunities for businesses to benefit from the network.

“This project will also allow us to develop the design, scope and cost estimates to support future funding applications to deliver these missing components.”

Engagement with the broader community, local businesses and visitors will form part of the development of the masterplan, to ensure the final document is reflective of local needs.

Cr Nicholas said the Alpine Shire Tracks and Trails Masterplan project will result in significant benefits for the community, businesses and visitors alike.

“By taking a strategic, shire-wide approach, we will understand how best to support our community and visitors to make the most of our tracks and trails, supporting physical activity and boosting wellbeing,” she said.

“We will be carrying out any small trail works with an eye to the broader plan and Shire-wide approach.

“We have needed a considered, evidence-based approach to tracks and trails management for some time

“It’s exciting that this opportunity is available for us to secure funding to deliver this clear need.”