If re-elected at the forthcoming election the Coalition Government has promised to provide $5M towards the vital Moorooduc-Mornington missing link on the Peninsula Trail.
The commitment was announced by the Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan, along with Liberal Candidate for Flinders Zoe McKenzie and Liberal Candidate for Dunkley Sharn Coombes.
Mornington Peninsula Shire has identified the 4.9 km missing section as the number one priority for the future development of the 100 km trail network across the Peninsula.
It will provide a connection into Mornington from the Peninsula Link Trail for riders further north in metropolitan Melbourne and connect to the existing Harrap Creek Trail into the Briars and Mt. Martha.
The proposed trail from Moorooduc to Mornington has been estimated to cost $8.5M to construct.
"Local residents from Frankston and across the Mornington Peninsula are set to benefit from this significant investment in what is a great tourist destination." Mr Tehan said.
"Completing the missing Moorooduc to Mornington link will boost jobs and opportunities for Peninsula businesses as well as building upon its potential to become one of the great scenic trails of the world.”
Liberal Candidate for Flinders Zoe McKenzie agrees "Our Peninsula Trail should be what Cradle Mountain is to Tasmania - a vibrant internationally recognised tourism destination with world-class food, beverage, entertainment, cultural and accommodation offerings.
"Building the missing link will encourage businesses to invest in their tourism and hospitality offerings linked to the trail so that locals - as well as both domestic and international travellers - can enjoy everything we have to offer on the Peninsula from our pristine greenery and beaches to our award-winning local produce.
"Ensuring continuous off-road cycling, walking and running between Moorooduc to Mornington will strengthen the Peninsula's brand as a premier tourism destination.”
Liberal Candidate for Dunkley Sharn Coombes said that completing this vital missing section of the Peninsula Trail would mean walkers and bike riders would have access to a safe, continuous path from Seaford and Carrum Downs all the way to Mornington.”
"Not only will the Peninsula Trail be a major tourist destination for our whole region, but locals from Carrum Downs, Frankston, Mount Eliza and beyond will have the opportunity to enjoy the trail and our beautiful local environment." Ms Coombes said.
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