Eastern extension of the Great Southern Rail Trail opens!

On 7 June 2024, the eastern extension of the Great Southern Rail Trail was opened to users, completing a 129 km trail through an impressive spectrum of Gippsland scenery.

Through the integration of the previously stand-alone Tarra Trail, which was completed by Wellington Shire just over a decade ago, the Great Southern Rail Trail now offers direct access to Alberton, Yarram and Port Albert.

Extensions at both ends have almost doubled the earlier trail length of 67 km within the last 2 years, making it now one of the longest in Australia. This was an outcome of dedicated work by the South Gippsland and Wellington Shires – while the build of the earlier western extension to Nyora was managed by South Gippsland, the eastern end was a joint effort and predominantly managed by Wellington Shire.

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

A number of significant challenges were faced during construction of the trail extension (a task requiring reconstruction of its 9 small and 5 large bridges), and not the least of these challenges were some extreme weather events in late 2023/early 2024, which have required repairs to damaged sections and delayed its opening to users.

The trail opening milestone was recognised by Wellington Shire Council Mayor, Cr Ian Bye and South Gippsland Shire Council Mayor, Cr Clare Williams taking to the trail to ride the extension, crossing the shire border between Welshpool and Alberton, and commending both councils for their collaborative efforts to achieve the much-anticipated project.

Yet to come are the installation of final interpretive and final wayfinding signage (expected by the end of 2024), and an official opening event prior to the September school holidays.

Also planned for late this year is the launching of a new Great Southern Rail Trail website, which will provide comprehensive information, allowing users to plan ahead of their visit.