Construction has started on a trail linking Barwon Heads to 13th Beach Surf Life Saving Club.
The trail will create a shared pedestrian and cycling path link between the Barwon Heads 13th Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Barwon Heads township and the 13th Beach Golf Course housing estate.
The 450-metre-long and 2.5-metre-wide gravel path will link the car park nearest the end of Stephens Parade with the surf life saving club on Thirteenth Beach Road.
The project is funded by $300,000 from the state government and $200,000 from the City of Greater Geelong and is being delivered in partnership with Barwon Coast, which manages the coastal Crown Land adjacent to the new shared trail.
The initiative is part of the City of Greater Geelong’s 10-year Shared Trails Master Plan, which aims to create a connected network of shared trails across the region.
Construction, which has been timed to avoid the peak visitor season, is due to be completed in June.
The works include a timber retaining wall on the northern side of the path, fencing on the southern side, bollards and signage.
“This shared path is an important asset for the Barwon Heads community,” Bellarine MP Lisa Neville said.
“It will improve safety and link all parts of this beautiful coastal town in a sustainable and healthy way.”
“13th Beach is increasing in popularity as the population increases in Barwon Heads and other nearby towns,” Barwon Coast chief executive Gary McPike said.
“This will improve beach access and also minimise incursions into the fragile vegetated dune system along 13th Beach.”
“Trails make it easier for people to choose active transport and to embrace a healthier and safer option to move around their community,” City of Greater Geelong councillor Jim Mason said.
