Work begins on Grand Strzelecki Track

Friday, 25 November 2011

Construction of the 85 kilometre Grand Strzelecki Track was officially launched today by Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional and Rural Development Peter Ryan.

Speaking from the Tarra Valley, Mr Ryan said the $500,000 project would connect the Morwell and Tarra-Bulga National Parks and showcase some of Victoria's most picturesque regions.

The Grand Strzelecki Track will follow the native forests of Balook and the Tarra-Bulga National Parks in the east, to the rolling hills of the Jeeralang district and Morwell National Park in the west. While the Wellington Shire section involves the upgrading and widening of existing tracks and river crossings, the Latrobe section includes 34 kilometres of walking tracks connecting Jeeralang and Balook to Tarra Valley.

The 2009 bushfires caused widespread damage across the Gippsland region and the development of this new attraction is an important step in the recovery process.

Up to 250,000 people visit national parks in the region each year to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty and many walking tracks.

"The Grand Strzelecki Track will add a 'world class' walking trail to the mix that will entice even more visitors and help stimulate new economic and social activities for local communities," Mr Ryan said.

Funding for the project was provided through the $4 million Bushfire Recovery Community Infrastructure Program (BRCIP).  Under the program $202,000 will be provided to Latrobe City Council for the western section of the track and $300,000 to Wellington Shire Council for the eastern section.

The BRCIP is a joint initiative from the Bendigo and Adelaide Banks, Community Enterprise Foundation and Regional Development Victoria to assist Victoria's rural, regional and interface council areas that were severely affected by the 2009 bushfires.