What is it?
A 3.3-kilometre extension of the existing pedestrian and bicycle shared path from Halls Gap to Halls Gap Zoo and the National Centre of Environment Art (WAMA).
Why is it needed?
This project will deliver a safe, direct shared path that separates users from vehicle traffic, significantly improving safety. It will complete a critical missing link, strengthening connections between key attractions, accommodation and local businesses, including high-use destinations such as Halls Gap Zoo (approx. 30,000 visitors annually, subject to confirmation).
Improved connectivity will enhance visitor experience, support longer stays and increase local spend, while contributing to regional recovery following recent natural disasters and bushfires.
The ask
$2.47 million for construction of the shared path (total project $2.6 million)
Please note - the original project scope concluded that a total investment of $3.5m was required, however council endeavoured to refine the scope and reduce the overall investment for financial sustainability reasons.
Specifications
- Location: Halls Gap, Victoria 3381
- State seat: Lowan
- Federal seat: Mallee
- Advocacy type: Lead
- Partnerships: Run the Gap Event Management
- Council plan goal: Business buzz: Agriculture, economy and tourism
- What has been done so far: Project Investigation Report has been undertaken, which includes defining the route and alignment, and project costing estimates.
- Existing commitments:
- Council: $80,000 (FY 2026/27)
- Run the Gap: $100,000
- Strategic alignment:
- Council Plan and Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–29
- Active Victoria 2022-26
- Victorian Cycling Strategy 2019–28
- Transport Accessibility Strategic Framework (Victoria)
- Victoria’s infrastructure strategy 2025-55