Friday, 26 May 2023

INTRODUCING ART ON THE GREAT VICTORIAN RAIL TRAIL

A series of large public artworks newly installed along the Great Victorian Rail Trail is expected to draw thousands more visitors to the iconic destination already known for its beauty, thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.

Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes joined representatives from Mitchell, Murrindindi and Mansfield Shire Councils, as well as artists, local businesses and community at Trawool to celebrate the completion of the artworks across the trail.

Seven large artworks have been installed at various locations along the 134-kilometre Tallarook to Mansfield trail with a series of 20 scar trees by Taungurung artist and Elder Uncle Mick Harding.

The trail-long scar tree works share stories and symbols of the Taungurung people, the Traditional Owners of the land along the trail and a large part of central Victoria. 

The artworks add to the natural beauty of the trail, which travels from Tallarook to Mansfield through the heritage listed Goulburn River Valley and is surrounded by dramatic views of majestic rivers, lakes and mountains.

New wayfinding and interpretive signs have been installed to improve the visitor experience and share the stories of First Nations peoples to connect walkers and riders with sites along the route. 

The Great Victorian Rail Trail is a multi-use accessible trail that can be experienced on foot, bike or horse and crosses Mitchell, Murrindindi and Mansfield Shires. It is the longest rail trail in Victoria and features the 201-metre-long Cheviot Tunnel built in 1889.

Mansfield, Murrindindi and Mitchell Shires attracted 2.6 million domestic daytrip and overnight visitors last year, who stayed 2.5 million nights and contributed $683 million in visitor expenditure to the local economy.

Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes

“The addition of these stunning artworks along the famous Great Victorian Rail Trail puts a spotlight on the Goulburn River Valley to the high country, providing even more reasons for visitors - both local and internationally - to visit this beautiful region. That’s great news for local jobs and businesses.’’

“There are so many reasons to explore the Great Victorian Rail Trail and the towns along the stunning journey and now there is another with these incredible artworks that share connections with landscape, history and culture.”