Bass Coast Rail Trail - Updates
About this page
The latest developments and improvements on the trail
Gaps on Phillip Island Road
02 July 08 There are several gaps in the Bass Coast Rail Trail on Phillip Island between San Remo and Cowes, of particular note being the area where Phillip Island Road, Rhyll-Newhaven Road and Back Beach Road come close together. These gaps force riders onto sections of busy road, some stretches of which have been reported as requiring improvements in maintenance. Riders have noted glass, vegetation and problems with uninspired road surfacing materials as areas of particular concern along these gaps in the trail.
Bicycle Victoria supports VicRoads improving this section of road by completing the gaps in the trail, which will allow riders to be separated from traffic and other on road hazards.
Bass Coast Shire Council Bicycle Strategy
10 June 08 Bass Coast Shire Council wants your input for its Bicycle Strategy review. The current version can be found on their website.
The Council has contacted Bicycle Victoria for input on the review process and the new strategy. We are looking forward to contributing to the review and to working with them to implement some outstanding initiatives that will contribute significantly to bike riding in the region.
Have a look at the section to your right of screen entitled "what we're asking for" to get an idea of some of the proposals we support for the area. If you would like to contribute to the review or let Bass Coast Shire Council know what you'd like to see in the new strategy, let them know by e-mail or phone on 1300 BCOAST (1300 226 278). This is a great opportunity to let the Shire Council know how we can improve the Rail Trail in particular!
Also worth noting, the Council has completed most of its trail resurfacing project, which makes for a much more enjoyable ride along the Bass Coast Rail Trail.
Phillip Island Road alternative
Mar 07 Bass Coast continues to push the Phillip Island path from the outskirts of Cowes towards San Remo. This year's $275,000 Principal Bicycle Routes project is underway extending the path south east from the existing section to Sunderland Bay Road and connecting Bay residents to the existing path.
Trail surface may be greatly improved within a year
The Bass Coast Shire has committed $50,000 to resurfacing the remaining 10km of the Bass Coast Rail Trail from Anderson to Wonthaggi.
We are also heartened by the council's interest in linking the trail to San Remo and Phillip Island. A number of possiblities are currently being discussed.
Bicycle Victoria's vision
Our vision is for a continuous 37km multi-use tourism trail between Cowes on Phillip Island and Wonthaggi which would make the Bass Coast Rail Trail a premier cycling trail. There are existing bike paths on Phillip Island that could be incorporated into the Bass Coast Trail.
Gaps that need completing are:
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Anderson roundabout to San Remo (approx 7km)
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San Remo to Forest Ave, Newhaven (approx 1.5km)
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Cleeland Rd, Cape Woolamai to Dunvegan Cr, Surf Beach (approx 4.5km)
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Rhyll-Newhaven Rd, Sunderland Bay to Bermagui Cres, Sunset Strip (approx 1.5km).
Completing these gaps would provide a tourist trail connecting Cowes township, Phillip Island Wildlife Park, A Maze N Things Mini Golf & tea rooms, Koala Conservation Centre, Churchill Island, Phillilp Island Tourist Information Centre, San Remo, Mitchell Mine Historic Reserve, Kilcunda trestle bridge and Wonthaggi.
We would like to know your thoughts. Send an e-mail to our message system.
The trail surface is currently gravel at the Wonthaggi end for approx 5 kms and the rest has a bluestone blend surface. The trail has a few minor rough and sandy patches and is suitable for most bikes, although those with fat tyres will find it easier. (trail description link at the right of this page).
Bass Coast Shire Council will be seeking $100,000 from the State Government in the near future to complete upgrading the surface between Anderson and Wonthaggi.