Steve Wilson and Murchison River Road Caravan Park manager Dirk Gibbons before Steve set off to ride the Waranga Rail Trail.
Cyclists are rolling into Murchison in growing numbers as the Waranga Rail Trail continues to attract riders from across Victoria and beyond, giving a welcome boost to local businesses and tourism.
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With the 19km trail linking Murchison and Rushworth along a former railway line, visitors are embracing the scenic ride while discovering everything the region has to offer.
Murchison River Road Caravan Park manager Dirk Gibbons said the trail had already made a noticeable impact on the town.
“It’s boosted our patronage by about 30 per cent, which is great, and it has an overflow effect on everything around town,” he said.
“It doesn’t just give people the opportunity to do the rail trail, but also to see more of Rushworth and the surrounding area too.
“We’ve been seeing a broad demographic coming into the park, with a mix of clubs and groups anywhere from people in their 20s right through to riders in their 60s.
“It’s great to see people using the track after so much investment went into making it happen.”
Located on the banks of the Goulburn River, Murchison River Road Caravan Park has become a popular base for riders tackling the 36km return journey between Murchison and Rushworth.
The park offers direct access to the trail via a nearby pathway and caters for both pedal bikes and e-bikes, making it appealing for riders of all experience levels.
Beyond the trail itself, visitors are also enjoying Murchison’s local attractions, including the town bakery, Railway Hotel, birdwatching opportunities and riverside camping.
Among those making the journey were Monica Plane and Wayne Martyn from Western Australia, who recently stayed at the park while exploring the trail and surrounding district.
Melbourne visitor Steve Wilson has also become a regular, returning every few weeks with his van to ride the track.
Stretching through eucalyptus-lined countryside and crossing the refurbished bridge over the Stuart Murray Canal, the Waranga Rail Trail offers riders and walkers a unique way to experience the natural beauty and history of the region.
Western Australian visitors Monica Plane and Wayne Martyn were among the cyclists enjoying the Waranga Rail Trail during their stay in Murchison.
The Waranga Rail Trail is a 19km shared-use path linking Rushworth and Murchison, winding through historic goldfields country and alongside the scenic Waranga Basin, with riders able to complete a 36km return journey between the two towns.
Wayne Martyn takes in the views of the Waranga Basin while riding along the Waranga Rail Trail near Murchison.