Feasibility Study for Cycling in Baw Baw

Feasibility Study for Cycling in Baw Baw

Published on 26 October 2018

Baw Baw Shire Council has given the green light to investigate the possibility of providing residents with new cycling facilities and opportunities that would meet the needs of a variety of different age groups and abilities. 

The decision to proceed with a formal feasibility study was unanimously endorsed by Council at its 24 October Council Meeting.

The feasibility study will investigate broader cycling opportunities in both rural and urban locations, improved marketing and promotion of cycling assets and events, and viability of two key projects:

Possibilities for cycling in the Logan Park precinct in Warragul, taking advantage of the current velodrome and the vacant adjoining land. Creation of an off-road trail from Nilma to Yarragon, in the vein of the existing Two-Town Trail between Drouin and Warragul.

These potential projects have been identified through the Economic Development Strategy 2018-2021.

Throughout the feasibility study process, there will be significant community consultation and engagement to ensure a well-rounded approach.

In addition to key project research, the feasibility study will provide strategic justification to support funding opportunities for any future cycling infrastructure projects that gain approval through this process.

A consultant will be engaged to conduct the feasibility study with formal tender documents to be prepared and released in due course.

Quotes attributable to Central Ward Cr Mikaela Power

“Baw Baw Shire is a leading destination for cycling enthusiasts. With picturesque views, peaceful roads and often challenging tracks, Baw Baw is growing in popularity with cyclists of all ages and abilities. With so many young families moving to Baw Baw Shire and people wanting to live healthy and active lives, participation in cycling is at an all-time high.”

”I'm pleased to see feasibility study come to fruition following the motion I raised last year. With increasing appetite for local cycling opportunities, it’s important we investigate feasible options thoroughly and in consultation with the community, so we can work together to make well-informed decisions about the future of cycling in our Shire.”

Quotes attributable to Deputy Mayor Cr Danny Goss

“We know that cycling provides a lot of local of economic activity. There are economic benefits in major cycling events events such as Tour of Gippsland, the Jayco Herald Sun Tour and the Mt Baw Baw Classic. There are benefits when tourists and visitors flow through our towns on their way to scenic trails. Even our local cafes benefit from the many cycling clubs and groups who ride into town to get their morning coffee.”

“This feasibility study provides an exciting opportunity to increase economic activity by increasing cycling options. We hope to build on our existing cycling assets such as the velodrome, various trails and BMX tracks in Warragul, Trafalgar and Rawson to deliver even more links for safe and purposeful cycling within our Shire.”

Quotes attributable to East Ward Cr Peter Kostos

“Statistics show that cycling is the third highest participation activity for people aged between 15-64 in Victoria.”

“There has been a strong community push to investigate and develop cycling opportunities in Baw Baw and we’re pleased to have the opportunity to progress matters via a feasibility study.”

“Through this process, we look forward to engaging with the community, cycling groups, business and Government to gain feedback towards the key projects.”