NATIONALS PLAN TO IMPROVE COMMUNITY LINKS

A plan to link Latrobe Valley towns with a network of bicycle trails has been unveiled by The Nationals Candidate for Morwell Russell Northe and Gippsland Province MLC Peter Hall.

Under The Nationals plan, a multi-million dollar network of trails will be developed to provide an alternative transport option and recreational opportunities.

"The first stage of the project would be to develop a recreational trail linking Traralgon and Morwell," Mr Northe said.

"We need to provide better opportunities for our community to safely commute between the two towns on bicycles or simply use the track for walking and jogging.

"With health and fitness becoming a major issue, it would help enormously if there was better infrastructure for people to safely exercise."

Mr Hall said the plan stemmed from a proposal put to the community several years ago with the support of local Rotary Clubs.

"It is a concept that has been talked about in the past but we need action now," Mr Hall said.

"While the Morwell-Traralgon link would be the first stage, The Nationals support the development of a network of trails including a link between Churchill and Morwell; completion of the Traralgon-Glengarry rail trail; a trail along Traralgon Creek between Loy Yang and Traralgon; and a trail between Yallourn Power Station to Morwell and Traralgon.

"There would also be scope to link Boolarra and Yinnar to Churchill in the future.

"Providing safe facilities for people to exercise and commute on bicycles is part of the attraction but we also believe a network of trails will enhance the local tourism industry and encourage our community to get outdoors and enjoy everything the Latrobe Valley has to offer."

The Nationals have previously announced a plan to boost investment in regional infrastructure with a $1.5 billion Country First Fund.

Mr Northe said the Country First Fund would be perfect for funding such a venture in the Latrobe Valley with a mix of local contributions and possible Federal grants.

"The State Government can afford the investment and we should be spending more on improving facilities in rural and regional Victoria," Mr Northe said.

"This plan is affordable and could be staged over a period of years to provide a long-term boost to our community."

The Nationals have met with local council officers to discuss the plan.

Media contact: Peter Hall (03) 5174 7066