Council Seeks $25 Million Federal Funding for High Country Rail Trail

Towong Shire Council is excited to announce its application for $25 million in funding from the Federal Government's Regional Partnerships and Precincts Program to support the development of the High Country Rail Trail. This funding opportunity marks a significant milestone for Council, representing a rare chance for transformative investment in the Shire.

The rail trail masterplan, recently updated and adopted by Council at the Ordinary Council Meeting in February, outlines the ambitious vision for the project. With a total cost exceeding $22 million, Mayor Andrew Whitehead emphasised the importance of securing external funding to progress the project.

“It’s a very large project and for a small council like ours, we cannot afford to build this without a significant contribution from the state or federal government,” he said.

“This funding is a once in a lifetime opportunity with no cost contribution required from Council which is really exciting.”

"Despite initial doubts, projects like recladding the Sandy Creek bridge have succeeded with foresight and determination – this application is no different.”

The rail trail holds immense economic potential for the region, as indicated by the cost-benefit analysis. Projections suggest the trail could generate over $11 million in annual contributions to the local economy and create 73 new jobs. Mayor Whitehead stated the community's enthusiasm for the project, citing the recent Our Towns project, which identified the rail trail as the highest priority project for the Upper Murray region.

“It’s great to see that there is widespread support for the delivery of this project, as reaffirmed by the community during the recent Our Towns project.”

“Community support will be crucial for the success of the funding application.”

Interested groups are encouraged to contact Council to offer letters of support by writing to ecodev@towong.vic.gov.au before March 22, 2024.