Paul Baker returns to Northern Victoria and rides three trails in one day

We recently featured Paul Baker riding the O’Keefe Rail Trail which was his 29^th Rail Trail for the year.  On Saturday, 17 June, Paul returned to regional Victoria – this time a little further east and completed his number 30, 31 and 32 #comerailtrailwithme Rail Trail adventures for the year.

Paul is a keen rider and a fabulous advocate for what rail trails have to offer. You can follow his adventures on Instragram (paul_at_pedal_effects) which is the best way to get his thoughts on each rail trail, watch his videos and hear about where he is heading next.  He uses the Rail Trails Australia Guidebook and the Rail Trails Australia website to plan his rides and obtain updated information.

Number 30 was the Dookie Rail Trail where he was accompanied on the ride by avid rider, and keen and active supporter of the trail, Peter McManus.  Peter gave Paul valuable insight into the history of the trail and plans for it to be extended further.  Paul really enjoyed his riding experience at Dookie Rail Trail. It was well maintained with lots of added features including the gym equipment and picnic area at Dookie.  He commented on the terrific signage along the trail.

Number 31 was Girgarre – Stanhope Rail Trail which he commenced at the Stanhope end.  Rail Trails Australia Central Victorian Representative Jenny caught up with Paul and discussed the amazing community contribution to this rail trail and all the excellent features at each end of the short trail.  The 5.5km rail trail connects the two towns which have shown great initiative with developments such as the Gargarro Botanic Gardens and Soundshell, Gargarro Botanic Gardens Café, Girgarre Farmer’s Market, Girgarre Moosic Muster and the fabulous walking path with music installations along the way.  Additionally, Stanhope has the interesting Montevideo Maru Tragedy Mural and information area, as well as the ever changing art installation at Stanhope Station Park.

Number 32 was the Murchison Rail Trail which is anticipated to become the Murchison Rushworth Rail Trail in April 2024.  Paul looks forward to returning to the trail when the link from Channel Road through to Rushworth is completed.  Plans are proceeding well and signage has recently been erected at the Rushworth end to indicate the Campaspe Shire’s Project with funding from the Federal Government through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and the Bushfire Recovery Grant Program.  Paul completed the 8km sealed and completed section of the rail trail and is keen to hear about any further linkages to this rail trail in the future.

We wish Paul well as he continues on completing all the rail trails in Victoria which he hopes to do by September 2023.