Buchan is celebrating a significant upgrade to its main road and walking path connections, following East Gippsland Shire Council’s completion of its Main Street and Linkages Project. 

Undertaken in two parts, this significant project commenced in November 2022 with the creation of a 2.5m-wide, 1.3km-long shared John Flynn Reserve Pathway connecting Buchan to the limestone Caves Reserve. 

Enhancing safety and accessibility in Buchan between the town and neighbouring tourist attractions, the pathway promotes walking and cycling between Caves Reserve campground and the town, taking in John Flynn Memorial Reserve and the town’s iconic swing bridge over the Buchan River. 

Significant upgrades to the town’s streetscape have also been completed, including new parking areas near key locations such as the Buchan Playground, CFA facility and Mechanics Hall. Roads have been resealed with new line markings to increase safety for both vehicles and pedestrians. 

The installation of new street furniture, including benches and tables, has enhanced the town’s appeal, making it more inviting for locals and visitors to the area. 

“This newly completed work in Buchan offers substantial community and economic benefits,” Council CEO Fiona Weigall said. 

“By improving access to Buchan’s town centre, the project will give tourism a boost, encouraging more travellers to stop, stay and spend. And I’m sure locals will appreciate a return of visitors in bigger numbers.” 

The project used local contractors and was made possible through funding from the Local Economic Recovery Program, jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian governments.  

Initiated after input from the Buchan, Gelantipy and Districts Renewal Association – a community group formed after the 2019-20 fires – the project complements the recently commenced upgrade of Buchan Recreation Reserve. 

"The streetscape project has really brightened Buchan’s main street," local business owner, Kirstie Pearce, said. "The new parking and pathways make it much more accessible for visitors and locals alike. For those of us who walk or bike through town, it's made a big difference. The paths, especially the ones to the caves, are easier to navigate now, and the road improvements make everything feel much safer." 

The town has also installed an electric vehicle charging station as part of the streetscape upgrade. The charger adds around 120 kilometres of range per hour. Powered by renewable energy, the EV charger will support the growing number of electric vehicle drivers and encourage more visitors to explore Buchan, boosting the local economy. It will be commissioned in the coming months. 

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