Enabling Tourism Fund 2024 – CMRT’s successful fundraising campaign

Castlemaine Maryborough Rail Trail Inc (CMRT) recently received very welcome news and financial support to allow them the apply for $400,000 from the Enabling Tourism Fund (ETF) 2024.  CMRT required $100,000 of matching funds to apply.   Both the Central Goldfields and Mount Alexander Shire Councils have agreed to contribute $40,000 each as co-funders if CMRT’s grant application to the ETF meets with success, along with the local community branch of the Bendigo Bank which also provided $20,000.

If successful, the $500,000 will complete Stage 2 of the Castlemaine to Maryborough Rail Trail’s development.  Stage 2 involves the due diligence that is required to ensure the project is compliant with legislation, meets community and state-wide needs and is supported by a sustainable operating model.

The following plans will be completed in Stage 2.

– Cultural Heritage Management Plan to assess any conceivable impacts the trail may have on Indigenous Cultural Heritage.

– Ecological and Environmental Study to ensure that the environmental values along the trail do not pose an unacceptable risk to implementation.

– Lease Negotiations to guarantee the project can confidently proceed, VicTrack who manage the former railway line land need to agree a long-term lease; they have provided initial written acknowledgement to do so.

– Reference Design to guide detailed design and cost planning, gain required town planning approvals, and as a tool to assist community consultation.

– Establishment of an operating model for the ongoing management of the rail trail.

Consultation will continue with landowners of properties adjoining the trail and the wider community will be encouraged to share thoughts whilst promoting the opportunities and a sense of ownership of the trail.  Consultation with land managers and authorities to ensure the design adheres to required standards and necessary approvals are obtained.

Successful applications will be announced in July 2024, RTA will provide an update on the outcome.

Photos supplied by CMRT member Greg James.