EXTENDING the existing Mount Gambier Rail Trail could generate huge economic benefits to the Limestone Coast region and encourage people to stop and stay in the region according to a cycling enthusiast.
Retiree and recreational cyclist Peter Glenn has asked Mount Gambier City and Grant District councils to consider expanding the Mount Gambier Rail Trail, saying a longer trail would attract cycling tourists to the region.
Mr Glenn, who has cycled most of the rail lands in South Australia and western Victoria, said Mount Gambier’s 5.4km sealed path was the best he had ridden, but lacked length compared to other destinations.
“The way the Mount Gambier trail is structured, the signage and the facility is fantastic and I really do believe the Mount Gambier trail is the best I have ridden on,” he said.
“But for the people who really like cycling, it is too short.
“I personally would not travel from Adelaide to ride on a trail that is only 10km long.
“It is a great trail and the railway lands look fantastic, but it just needs to be longer.
“Contrary to some opinions, a rail trail of 50km or more in length is more attractive to visitors than one of 15km in length – it has to be worth the trip.”
Mr Glenn said the region was well placed to provide high quality cycling experiences and become a destination of choice in Australia.
“All aspects of cycling – road, track, hybrid, mountain bike, children’s, pump and electric-assisted bicycles – are in vogue and will continue to increase going forward,” he said.
“ For these reasons, it would be remiss of the Limestone Coast and Mount Gambier in particular not to capitalise on this sport or exercise.”
In a letter to both councils, Mr Glenn said Mount Gambier to Penola was an ideal extension to the current trail.
He said cycling tourism developed for the leisure market would contribute to an increase in the length of stay and encourage tourists to visit other Limestone Coast destinations.
“I think we should capitalise on assets we have, for example Mary MacKillop and the World Heritage Listed Naracoorte Caves and aim for a pilgrimage or heritage trail,” he said.
“To save costs, it need not be sealed as the current trail is.
“A trail to Kingston via Millicent, Beachport and Robe would benefit all towns in relation to accommodation and meals.”
Mr Glenn has undertaken a number of cycling holidays, including the 37km Port Fairy to Warrnambool Rail Trail, the 35km Riesling Trail from Clare to Auburn and the 17km Amy Gillett Bikeway in the Adelaide Hills.
The 74-year-old had planned to travel to Victoria to undertake the Bright Rail Trail 94km of sealed bitumen over disused railway line from Bright to Wangaratta – but was forced to reschedule due to coronavirus.
“I was really looking forward to going over there to ride the trail, but it is only COVID-19 holding me back,” he said.
“I am thinking of going to Victor Harbor this weekend to ride the Encounter bike track, which runs from Goolwa to Victor.
“People who like to ride are happy to travel around to the rail trails and it is great for the visitor economy.
“We have four people in our group and we travel to the trails and spend money while we are in the town.”
Ahead of the 2018 South Australian election, the State Liberals pledge to develop the Great Southern Bike Trail linking Adelaide to Melbourne and featuring a series of tourismfocused loops for novice riders, families and more experienced cyclists.
Last year, then Tourism Minister David Ridgway said a feasibility study was under way on the development of the cycling trail.
Mr Ridgway’s office said the project was progressing, but there was nothing to announce at this time.
Grant District Council tabled Mr Glenn’s letter at a recent council meeting and it was received and noted by elected members.
