Flood repair works to the Grampians Rail Trail are almost complete.  

The 11-kilometre trail, which follows the historic Heatherlie Rail Line between Stawell and Lake Lonsdale, experienced flood damage last year when fast-flowing water eroded a section of the trail. 

A Stawell Gold Mines grant has enabled Friends of the Grampians Rail Trail to undertake ground works. 

Volunteers have smoothed the track, removing ruts, and installed three additional concrete floodways. 

Further reinforcement of the track will minimise future flood damage.

Project co-ordinator John Pye said the rail trail began as a Stawell Secondary College student-led project and more than 350 students completed the majority of construction works between 2002 and 2012; it transitioned to a community-run group in 2017.  

The not-for-profit group continues to fund, maintain and operate the popular community infrastructure. 

The former rail line was used from 1882 to 1949 to transport sandstone from Heatherlie Quarry in the Grampians to Stawell for historic buildings such as the court house, and on to Melbourne for public buildings such as Parliament House and the State Library.

It meanders through reserves, forest and wetlands. 

The rail trail remains open and works are scheduled for completion during autumn.

“We are the only community-operated rail trail in Victoria and rely on the support from organisations such as Stawell Gold Mines and the work of volunteers,” Mr Pye said. 

“We hope to extend it to Halls Gap, creating an iconic rail trail that will enhance the visitor experience in the Grampians and deliver a tourist boom for Stawell.” 

People can view a trail map via www.railtrails.org.au  

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