East Gippsland Shire Council has awarded the contract for the Omeo Mountain Bike Trail Masterplan to Biosis Pty Ltd at the Council meeting held on Tuesday May 7.
Mayor Cr Natalie O’Connell said the $4.5 million project will boost the Omeo region economy and attract international events and ensure Omeo is an adventure destination into the future.
“The Omeo Mountain Bike Trail is an important project for the region and this milestone will progress the project for the community,” Cr O’Connell said.
“Council would like to thank the Omeo Steering Committee for their hard work and dedication to the project so far.
“Tourism, particularly nature-based and experiential tourism is a key strength of our region. Adventure sport is a growing sector and is something East Gippsland is uniquely placed to take part in, with the region covering both High Country terrain and coastal areas.”
A feasibility study was taken in 2017 which showed the trail will have positive economic impacts for the region. Council has budgeted for $1.5 m with the remainder of the $3 m funding coming from both state and federal government – Building Better Regions.