Macedon Ranges Shire Council has awarded a contract to a local business, to deliver a 24km trail in central Victoria.
Newearth Constructions has been awarded the design and construct contract.
Newearth Constructions is a family-owned business based in Romsey with local employees and suppliers who have been delivering projects across the Macedon Ranges since 1927.
The $11.24 million Shared Trails Project will see the completion of a 24km trail used for walking, running, low-volume cycling, and commuting, all the way from Woodend to Riddells Creek — linking rural landscapes, towns and heritage places.
Construction of the trail will take place in stages and is expected to take two years, with completion scheduled for mid 2024.
Currently, stage one of the project encompassing an initial section of the trail in Woodend has started, with works expected to commence on the second stage from Riddells Creek to Gisborne, and Gisborne to Macedon in late 2022.
The works will then be paused during the winter months of 2023 and recommence in late 2023. The final trail sections between Woodend and Macedon will be finalised in mid 2024.
The Macedon Ranges Shared Trails Project is supported by the Victorian Government through the Crisis Committee of Cabinet – Infrastructure Stimulus Fund.
Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Bernie O’Sullivan, said the Macedon Ranges Shared Trails is going to be an amazing asset for the community – who have increasingly sought the provision of safe walking and cycling opportunities – and for investments that support the region’s growing tourism sector.
“Residents will have another reason to get out and be active and enjoy our unique landscapes and the trail will also be a major drawcard for visitors from further afield,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
“Research tells us that access to nature is one of the key drivers for visitation to the region, and a project such as this will really enhance our nature-based offer. We can’t wait to see this project take shape.”
Newearth Constructions are strongly committed to creating careers in the civil construction industry in the region, particularly amongst youth.
In 2018, they were awarded Employer of the Year by the Civil Contractors Federation of Victoria as a result of their commitment to training and development and in 2021 one of their local apprentices won the CCF Victorian Apprentice of the Year.
Newearth Constructions’ General Manager, Mick McCarthy, expressed great delight at being awarded the significant project for the Region.
“The Newearth Constructions team all live in the area and all of our works are done throughout this region,” Mr McCarthy said.
“We are really pleased to have this fantastic opportunity to partner with Macedon Ranges Shire Council to deliver a Region-enhancing project and leave a great legacy for future generations to enjoy.
“This project will of course also help us to continue to support local youth with training and employment.”
Mr. O’Sullivan said that this was a great opportunity to support local business, local trades and suppliers, and to create local employment opportunities.
“Not only are we delighted to be moving closer to the next phase of construction and delivery of what will be a fabulous community asset, we’re also really pleased with the local investment and employment opportunities that will flow on from awarding this contract.”
