The Omeo Mountain Bike Trails project has progressed through its next stage, with a planning application approved unanimously by East Gippsland Shire Council on Tuesday, March 16.

The planning application comprised of use of land for the mountain bike trail, the removal of native vegetation and works associated with the construction of 121.58 kilometres of bike trail which include excavation, drainage, signage, dry rock walling and low level bridges over waterways or bog.

The subject site is made up of Crown Land and State Forest to the north-west of the township of Omeo. Included within this land are the Mount Mesley Reserve, Mount Sam State Forest and the Oriental Claims Historic Area. The Crown Land Reserve is managed by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP).

Mayor Cr Mendy Urie said the approval of the planning permit is a very exciting step in the project.

“The approval of this planning permit means the work can now progress on this wonderful project which not only benefits the Omeo region, but also the entire East Gippsland community with the economic and tourism opportunities it will bring,” Cr Urie said.

The Omeo Mountain Bike Destination Project is based on long standing community involvement with strong advocacy, and support from all tiers of government. The project is being funded by Council ($1.5 million), Australian Government through the Building Better Regions Fund ($1.5M) and the State Government through Regional Development Victoria ($1.0M).

Stage one of trail construction will start in 2021.

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