Howqua Inlet Community Trail first stage completed

Published on 21 February 2025

A partnership between Council and community volunteers has successfully delivered the first stage of a new community trail in Howqua Inlet.

When all 3 stages are complete, the trail will provide a walking and cycling link between Howqua Inlet and the Howqua Valley Holiday Park. The first stage saw construction of a new trail between Edmanson Avenue and Barnetts Road, linking to the service road alongside Mansfield-Woods Point Road.

This project was initiated by the Howqua Inlet community. In 2023 the Jamieson Community Group & Associated Bodies Inc. helped to secure funding from Council’s Outlying Communities Infrastructure Fund for a feasibility study and design of the trail. Council supported the planning work and provided construction materials such as gravel, culverts, and signage.

The trail was built by community volunteers who donated their time, equipment and skills.

Nick Hyslop, President of the Howqua Inlet & Macs Cove Community Group, thanked everyone involved for their support.

"The Community Trail began as a community dream – to create a safe and accessible path linking key local assets,” he said.

“Through hard work, collaboration, and unwavering persistence, that dream has become a reality. With incredible support from Mansfield Shire Council, the generosity of local volunteers, and the guidance of Jamieson Community Group, we have successfully completed stage one.

“This project stands as a testament to the power of community, dedication, and shared vision,” said Mr Hyslop.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said the project was a successful partnership between Council and the community.

“It’s fantastic to see community members taking the initiative to make a difference in our Shire, and Council is proud to support them,” he said.

“We’re so grateful to everyone who donated their time to work on the community trail. We look forward to seeing people getting out and enjoying the path while we work to plan the next stages,” said Cr Rabie.

Council’s contributions included $10,000 through the Outlying Communities Infrastructure Fund as well as providing construction materials to a value of $5,000. Remaining signage for the first stage will be installed in coming weeks.