Sunday’s announcement by Regional Development Minister Jaala Pulford that the Victorian government will put up $205,000 to support rail trails is a positive for our region.

The money will go towards extending existing trails and create new links between the Murray to Mountains and High Country rail trails.

It is recognition of the hard work many people have put in over a long period.

Alpine, Benalla, Indigo, Towong, Wangaratta and Wodonga councils, Tourism North East and Winton Wetlands have all played role.

The Murray to Mountains rail trail stretches almost 100 kilometres through the rich farmland of the North East covering places such as the Ovens Valley from Bright to Wangaratta and Beechworth.

Work will be done on the following trail extensions and links:

These connections have the potential to significantly boost visitor numbers to our area and raise the profile of the North-East by connecting some of the best nature-based trails with the region’s iconic food and wine destinations. 

The enhancement project will create up to 25 full time jobs.

It also comes on the same day the Victorian Government unveiled a new campaign promoting regional destinations to Melbourne, and interstate, travellers.

That television and online campaign focuses on the entire state but it is worth noting our region features prominently.

The ads feature mates wandering through a Wandiligong orchard, across our snow-covered mountains and and cooling their feet in the mighty Murray at Forges Bend, just downstream from Yarrawonga.

It is intentional that there is no mention of the high-profile tourist destinations our region is renowned for.

It showcases our beautiful region’s natural wonders – the landscapes you will see as you travel our soon to be upgraded trails.