Kerang Lakes Eco-Trail feasibility study completed

Published on 21 February 2023

The development of a walking and cycling trail connecting Kerang and Lake Charm is one step closer to occurring following the completion of the Kerang Lakes Eco-Trail Feasibility Study.

Presented at the February 2023 Council Meeting, the document outlines four options for the 22-kilometre long trail, which would provide residents and visitors with a unique way to explore the Kerang Lakes.

“This proposed trail will showcase the Gannawarra’s unique birdlife, cultural heritage and wetlands, highlighting the area as Victoria’s nature-based tourism destination,” Mayor Charlie Gillingham said.

“The project would also create another option for residents who want to keep active by walking, running or cycling.”

Council commissioned a report into the project’s feasibility following a presentation from the Kerang Landcare Group in 2021, which led to the appointment of consultants to develop the study.

“Tredwell Management Services worked concurrently on this document and the Gannawarra Walking and Cycling Strategy, spending early 2022 seeking residents’ views on this project via community meetings and an online survey,” Mayor Gillingham said.

“Kerang Landcare also played a key role in the development of this document, including supporting the consultants in determining preferred routes, reviewing surface treatments for the potential trail, and identifying opportunities to enhance tourism offerings, such as interpretive signs and public art sites.”

The study recommends four options for the asphalt/concrete trail, which could be completed in three stages - Kerang Regional Park to Reedy Lake, Reedy Lake to Third Lake, and Third Lake to Lake Charm – at an initial cost of $12.5 million to $14.6 million to construct and more than $50,000 each year to maintain.

“Additional planning and construction drawings will be necessary to finalise the proposed route and identify a more accurate costing of the project and will be considered as part of future budgets.  This work will assist Council and Kerang Landcare to advocate for external funding, which will be necessary to make this trail a reality,” Mayor Gillingham said.

To view the Kerang Lakes Eco-Trail Feasibility Study, click on the Strategic Projects tab at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/documents