Turtons Track in the Otway Ranges has been sealed and can now be used by motorists, the Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney announced today.
“The $6.3 million project means that this popular tourist route, between Beech Forest and Haines Junction, is now accessible to two wheel drive vehicles all year round.
“This is good news for both tourists and the local community who can use this sealed road,” Ms Tierney said.
The newly completed road stretches for 12km and will have a speed limit of 40km/h to ensure the safety of all road users, Ms Tierney said.
“Turtons Track is located in the Otway National Park, a rainforest area subject to very high rain fall and landslips.
“Now that this project is completed, tourists and local residents will be able to access this section of Turtons Track all year round.
“It will also significantly improve the way traffic can access the Tourist Circuit and the Otway Fly,” Ms Tierney said.
In addition to the safety and mobility benefits, essential drainage works were also completed which will help prevent damage to the sensitive rainforest environment.
“I am pleased to be able to acknowledge the involvement of the local community in bringing this important project to our attention,” Ms Tierney said.
“The State Government has listened to the local community, which campaigned over a number of years for the sealing of this road.”
“The benefits of the project to tourism in the area will be felt for many years to come by delivering long term transport and safety benefits to the local community.”