MURCHISON and Rushworth will become connected by the long-awaited Murchison Rail Trail, which is set to become a reality thanks to $1.5M in Federal funding.
Campaspe Shire Council will match the investment towards the project that will see an 11km trail connecting the two towns along the former rail reserve via Waranga Basin.
New jobs, health benefits and tourism opportunities are some of the benefits that underpin the project, which the Federal Member for Nicholls, Damian Drum, said would flow on both during and beyond the construction period.
“The Rushworth-Murchison Trail will provide a free, safe, and accessible space for locals and support local investments such as carparks, public toilets, and playgrounds.”
“New jobs will be created during construction and once completed, the hospitality industry and other local businesses can expect to benefit from the growing trend of rail trail holidays,” Mr Drum said.
The Rushworth-Murchison Trail is the latest of its kind in Nicholls to receive funding, following the Yarrawonga Tourism Trail ($2.7M funding), Murray River Adventure Trail ($650,000), and stage 2 of the Dookie Rail Trail ($275,000).
“With people choosing to holiday closer to home, trails of these kinds have become even more popular, with visitors often staying for a night or two, injecting money into the local economy,” said Mr Drum.
Campaspe Shire Mayor, Cr Chrissy Weller, said Council was delighted to have received the funding and that the project had been a key priority for several years.
“It will attract an abundance of users who will, in turn, economically boost local eateries, accommodation and retail,” Ms Weller said. “We thank Member for Nicholls, Damian Drum, for his ongoing advocacy.”
