Skipton Rail Trail back in action after flood repairs

Published on 15 December 2023

The Skipton end of the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail is back in action after the last of extensive repairs were completed.

Council’s Infrastructure Projects Officer Dean Finlayson said the trail was significantly damaged by floods in October 2022.

“After the floods civil engineers did an assessment and determined floodway, re-sheeting and drainage works were required,” Mr Finlayson said.

“A local contractor re-sheeted about 5.5 km of the trail managed by Council between Anderson Street and Spring Hill Road.

“The works included reconstruction of damaged sections including the concrete floodway just south of the Skipton golf course.

“We’ve also built up, reshaped and graded the trail to improve drainage, re-sheeted and rolled the surface, and provided side drainage to allow water to run into existing table drains.

“The works will significantly reduce the risks of future erosion due to drainage from severe wet weather.”

North Ward Councillor Nick Cole said the timing was perfect with the trail open for the festive season holiday and summer.

“The rail trail is a great asset for Skipton,” Cr Cole said.

“It’s a safe and accessible way for locals to get out for some exercise and enjoy fresh air, sunshine and the beautiful environment.

“It’s also an inviting gateway to bring cyclists, hikers and horse riders down from Ballarat to explore what we have in Corangamite.

“A new coffee shop is open in town now – Bluestone, Bubbles and Banter – where visitors and tourists can enjoy a nice cuppa and wind down on the banks of the very scenic Mt Emu creek after the rail trail.”

Local Government Victoria’s Council Flood Support Fund provided $315,000 for the repairs.