Work to build a new shared trail at Beacon Point in Clifton Springs is underway.
On Friday 5 May, Mayor Trent Sullivan joined fellow Bellarine Ward councillors Jim Mason and Stephanie Asher, and State Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant MP to view the early progress of construction.
Starting at a beach access point opposite Cantata Way, the 800-metre shared trail will run along the cliff's edge to Beacon Point Reserve, and then south along the eastern boundary of the reserve to finish on High Ridge Drive.
Featuring magnificent 180-degree views across Port Phillip Bay, the trail will provide an improved connection to the coast and has the potential to be a drawcard for tourists looking to add a walking or bike riding sightseeing experience to their exploration of the Northern Bellarine.
The project is jointly funded by Council ($180,000) and the Victorian Government ($360,000) via the latest round of the Regional Infrastructure Fund 2022-2023.
Designed as part of the Beacon Point Reserve Masterplan, the project aims to enhance the informal use of the area.
Alongside the new shared trail, works will also include associated facilities such as signage and trail information, park furniture, and revegetation of native and indigenous species.
Mayor Trent Sullivan:
Projects like this provide many benefits to the community including increasing opportunities for recreation and active travel, as well as improved community health, safety, and wellbeing.The Beacon Point Reserve has stunning views of our Northern Bellarine coastline, so it's great to see our shared trails network expanding there.
Alison Marchant MP, Member for Bellarine:
The Beacon Point Shared Trail project will create an important connection to the coastline, improving access and facilities for the community and visitors to the Bellarine, making it easier for them to enjoy coastal walks and impressive views across the bay.
Councillor Stephanie Asher:
This is a really unique and interesting part of our region, with its mixture of steep cliffs, sandy beaches and rocky outcrops. It will be great to see people putting this lovely area to good use through increasing physical activity and greater connections between our local Bellarine community.
Councillor Jim Mason:
The Beacon Point Shared Trail will improve the open community space by making it more accessible to multiple types of users, including tourists who are exploring the breathtaking natural beauty of our Bellarine Peninsula.
