Gravel Cycling Routes Open for Feedback
Published on 19 April 2024
New gravel road cycling routes proposed for promotion by Tourism North East to cyclists on existing Mansfield Shire roads are open to feedback from interested community members.
The network includes seven cycling routes on existing gravel roads and tracks across Mansfield Shire and three hubs where cyclists can access information and a repair station. It expands on a variety of other gravel cycling routes across the Victorian High Country, including neighbouring shires.
No changes are proposed to the existing road surface, however new signage will be installed where needed. The program aims to improve safety and better inform cyclists using the roads of the conditions they may encounter along the way, with increasing numbers of gravel cyclists expected to use the network and associated route maps through an on-line app.
The program has received $75,000 funding from the Gravel Cycling Tourism Activation Program through TNE from the National Emergency Management Agency, Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants Program.
Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said he hoped every user of the roads included in the network would take the opportunity to have their say in the consultation, hosted by Mansfield Shire Council.
“We recognise that cyclists are vulnerable on the road, and this initiative will help to provide better information on hazards such as farm equipment and the use of our rural roads for farming activities. This will mean cyclists can safely enjoy our great rural environment while being respectful to other road users,” he said.
“Many people use our rural roads for different purposes, and providing better information will help to improve safety for all.
“Whether you’re a cyclist, a farmer driving large machinery, a livestock transport contractor or you drive a passenger vehicle alongside other road users, we want your feedback on the proposed routes to understand how to make this work for you.
“If you feel like there’s an alteration to the routes or information that would make it safer for everyone, or you see an opportunity to make the proposal better, please give us your feedback.”
The seven proposed routes include:
- Mansfield Merrijig Loop; following Pollards Road, Powers Road, Mansfield-Woods Point Road, Rifle Butts Road, Ogilvies Road and Chapel Hill Road.
- Long Lane Loop; following Olivers Road, Mount Battery Road, Graves Road, Old Tolmie Road, Soldiers Road and McMaster Road.
- Mt Samaria Loop.
- Mansfield Black Swamp Road Loop.
- Mansfield Stoneys Road Loop.
- Mansfield Goughs Bay Picnic Point; following Monkey Gully Road and Howes Creek-Goughs Bay Road.
- Merrijig Two Rivers Loop; following School Lane, Buttercup Road, Carters Road, Doughty Road and Howqua Track.
Visit engage.mansfield.vic.gov.au/gravel-project to give feedback on the proposed network by 30 April.