Thursday, 15 May 2025

Northern Victoria Region

Wendy LOVELL (Northern Victoria) (12:49): My question is for the Minister for Regional Development. Will you support the visitor economy in Macedon by funding planning work for the Hanging Rock to Daylesford rail trail? The Macedon Ranges are a major drawcard for international tourists as well as Victorians on day trips or long weekends. It is the perfect place for a cycling adventure, and one of the top priorities for the Macedon Ranges Shire Council is developing and connecting 57 kilometres of shared-use and rail trails all the way from Hanging Rock to Daylesford, linking communities through some of the most picturesque areas of Victoria. Council estimates that completing the trail will bring up to 60,000 additional visitors each year, who will spend an extra $11 million in local tourism and hospitality businesses, boosting the local economy. Council needs a $3 million investment from the Victorian government to design and plan this project so that it is shovel ready. With an expected benefit-to-cost ratio of three to one, this project is a clear winner. Victorian tourism businesses are hurting under the Allan government – (Time expired)