Mitchell River Walking Track changes

A new section of Bairnsdale’s popular Mitchell River Walking Track is complete and open.

The new concrete path from the river to Riverine Street is part of a larger East Gippsland Shire Council project to close a small section of walking track adjacent to the river for environmental and safety reasons, while maintaining public access.

Council’s General Manager Assets and Environment Fiona Weigall said the new track (and subsequent planned closure of small section of old track) was in response to the presence of poplar trees that pose an unacceptable risk to users of this section of the river walk.

“The new section of track, a concrete path with retaining walls and handrails, diverts the existing Mitchell River walking track away from the poplar trees and grey-headed flying fox habitat to Riverine Street while still providing a picturesque walk along the river,” Ms Weigall said.

Council will start works to close a small section of track this week. Barriers, and closure and informative signage will be installed. Community members are also asked to respect the closure and avoid entering the closed section.

Organisers of the Bairnsdale parkrun have been notified working with Council officers on redefining their route.

“Work continues revegetating the section where the new track has been installed. Some revegetation has been completed and weed matting installed. However, due to the dry weather conditions no more planting will take place until conditions are appropriate,” Ms Weigall said.