Study ‘backing for horse trails’

Kim Waters
COUNCIL should adopt the recommendations of its own study into a proposed trail network on the Bellarine Peninsula to prevent “dangerous” conditions for riders, according to a peak riding body.
Pony Club Association Victoria president Jan Faulkner was “thrilled” that council’s study recommended designated “horse-friendly” roads, improved signage, a code of conduct for riders and development of off-road trails.
She called on councillors to act on the study, which went before council last week.
“I’m really hoping to see an improvement in facilities for horse riders on the Bellarine Peninsula. Any horse rider would say that at the moment it’s dangerous,” Ms Faulkner said.
She said unsigned roads shared between cars and horses were a “great risk”, particularly for children on ponies.
“Even the quietest pony can take fright at a car and I’m sure horse-friendly roads with proper signage would make drivers more aware.”
Councillors “noted” the Bellarine horse trail study at their meeting last week.
Mayor John Mitchell said the study estimated at least 330 horse riders were based on the peninsula.
“The study determined there was a lack of north/south linear open space corridors on the Bellarine Peninsula,” Cr Mitchell said.
“In order to establish a network of horse trails, a combination of roads and public land is needed, including permission from public land managers.”