Bass Coast Rail Trail affected by erosion

Erosion along the Kilcunda foreshore is impacting on the Bass Coast Rail Trail, leading Bass Coast Shire Council to put measures in place to improve user safety.

The damaged section of the Trail is located to the east of the Bourne Creek Bridge. Walkers and riders can continue to use the Trail, however it has been narrowed, as further erosion is expected to impact on the area over coming months.

Bass Coast Shire Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari said Council is asking all Trail users to use caution when navigating this section of the Trail.

“We would like to encourage users to obey signage and avoid the fenced off area, and are asking horse and bicycle riders to dismount when approaching, from both directions,” Cr Tessari said.

Temporary fencing is in place, restricting access to the south of the Trail, including all beach access directly south of the Lionel Rose Car Park. Visitors can use the existing path to the east of the car park to access the Trail and beach access paths.

Signs will be installed to alert Trail users of the restrictions.

“Because we expect erosion to continue in this area, work is underway to determine a permanent detour for the damaged section of the Trail,” Cr Tessari said.

“We are working with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning to determine long-term solutions to limit the impact on Trail users.”

“There is currently no alternative route, due to the local dune system and width of the Bass Highway.”

/Public Release. View in full here.