The final 11.46-kilometre section of the East Gippsland Rail Trail between Simpsons Creek and Prestons Road has now been resurfaced and officially opened, completing the upgrade of the full 96-kilometre trail.

Nationals Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, said the works were an outstanding achievement for the small volunteer Committee of Management, who delivered the project on time and on budget, an outcome the government could well take notice of.

Mr Bull said the Regional Tourism Investment Fund grant concluded more than $5.5 million in upgrades to the trail since the Black Summer Bushfires.

“Out of disaster, the committee has renovated an asset that delivers significant economic and social benefits across the region.

“The Committee of Management engaged local contractors, used local materials and kept the funding in our region, which is exactly what we want to see.”

Mr Bull said the trail was now in the best condition it had ever been and would continue to grow as a major tourism asset for East Gippsland.

“The East Gippsland Rail Trail draws visitors to our towns, supports local businesses and encourages people to stay longer and explore more of what we have to offer,” he said.

Mr Bull noted the ongoing challenge of maintenance, with East Gippsland Shire Council contributing less than $600 annually despite the trail requiring a minimum of $600 per kilometre to maintain to current standards. In comparison, Wellington and Latrobe City Councils contribute a combined $1,200 per kilometre towards rail trail maintenance.

“With the trail now fully resurfaced, it’s vital that we secure the ongoing support needed to protect this investment,” Mr Bull said.

He encouraged locals and visitors to get out and enjoy the trail.

“Whether you want to ride the whole trail or just take on a popular section like Bairnsdale to Nicholson, now is the perfect time to experience it.”

Caption: State Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, with East Gippsland Rail Trail Committee of Management at its official opening of the newly upgraded section east of Simpsons Creek.
Pictured L-R: Tim Bull MP, Michael Oxer (former EGRT Chair) and current committee members Frank McShane, Trish Fox, Gaynor Rettino and Al Campbell.

Monday, 1 December 2025