Works to construct 39km of walking paths connecting the Dandenong Ranges is officially underway, as part of Yarra Ranges Council’s RidgeWalk project.
Federal Member for Casey, Tony Smith MP, joined State Member for Monbulk, James Merlino MP, Yarra Ranges Mayor, Jim Child and Deputy Mayor Johanna Skelton to turn the sod for the RidgeWalk project on Friday, 4 February.
The sod turning marks the official beginning of the project’s construction, with 16km of new and upgraded trails to be established, alongside 23km of existing trails throughout the hills.
Cr Child said the RidgeWalk project would showcase the histories and cultures of the region through art installation, signage and spaces for exhibitions and performances.
“This project will have permanent and temporary components, turning it into a living, breathing part of the Dandenongs,” he said.
“Much of the signage and spaces will be an acknowledgement of the inspiration artists have found in the Dandenongs, with the region featuring heavily in Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal artworks over the years.
The RidgeWalk will be a key tourism drawcard, provide an immersive experience for community members learning more about their backyard and connect towns across the hilltop. I look forward to this project being completed next year.”
“I’d like to acknowledge the significant funding contribution to this project from both the Federal and State Government, with $5.8 million from the Federal Government, $2 million from the State Government and $2 million from Council dedicated to bringing this idea to life.”
RidgeWalk is one of our Ridges and Rivers projects, along with the Yarra Valley Trail and Warburton Mountain Bike Destination.
Together, these major trail projects are expected to bring an extra 757,000 annual visitors to the region, adding $80.8m to the local economy and generating 535 jobs.
