Restoration of Viaduct for East Gippsland Rail Trail underway
The East Gippsland Rail Trail from Bairnsdale to Orbost formally ends at Burn Road, Newmerella, just two kilometres short of the old station site close by the Snowy River. That gap is about to close as the historic Snowy River Viaduct which crosses the flood plain is returned to use for walking and bicycling.
On Saturday 21 September 2024 a gathering of several Orbost locals met at the Burn Road car park to hear about progress on the restoration of the Viaduct.
Thanks to the persistent efforts of a small group of local people over the last five years and with money from several funding sources, what was only a dream twenty five years ago is becoming a reality. The hand built sagging trestle structure is now being levelled, and decaying timber piles repaired using locally found timber. A ‘floating’ pathway of perforated synthetic decking will be laid above the original bridge cross timbers to provide safe and comfortable access for walking, bicycling and mobility visitors for years to come.
Built during WW1 and closed for train traffic in the mid 1980’s, this outstanding example of timber railway bridging will be known as the Railway Viaduct Trail, extending the East Gippsland Rail Trail and creating a ‘must visit’ tourism attraction for Orbost.
The photo below is a view of the repaired southern end of the viaduct where it emerges from bushland onto the sweeping vista of the flood plain. The Princes Highway bridge nearby follows a curving route which mirrors that of the historic former railway bridge.
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3 comments on “Restoration of Viaduct for East Gippsland Rail Trail underway”
So pleased to see the old trestle under restoration. I look forward to travelling with my bike from Ballan to Bairnsdale…by V/Line of course as soon as it's completed and once again riding the trail (third visit)stopping over at Bruthen and for a few days at the quirky motel on the highway at Orbost.
Mike, if you have a spare day, and you haven't been, try a 15km (each way) trip to the quaint seaside village of Marlo.
Cheers
I think that there's going to be unexpected, but welcome publicity when motorists on the nearby Highway catch a glimpse of cyclists riding on the adjacent Railway Viaduct Trail. Tourists and travellers might be lured into Orbost to investigate. Could be an opportunity for a bike hire business as well. Any word on anticipated completion date?