Trail revamp takes shape
WORK on the Black Spur section of the Great Southern Rail Trail is well underway at Koonwarra.
Clearing of vegetation at both ends is complete, the first bridge (from Koonwarra end) has been demolished, and the decks of the second and third bridges have been removed.
Work crews tried to leave as much vegetation as possible, while still opening up the trail.
South Gippsland Shire Council projects officer Tony Peterson said two local companies from both ends of the shire have been contracted to construct the trail.
“Agtrans Services from Foster will be completing the bridge works, which is the same company that completed the bridges between Foster and Welshpool,” he said.
“The trail construction and vegetation clearing will be completed by Korumburra business EcoProjects Australia.”
The first bridge will be replaced with a new structure, while sections of the second and third bridges spanning the Tarwin River will be replaced.
What is not replaced will be rehabilitated.
Mr Peterson said the original bridges were built in the 1890s, however sections have been repaired and rebuilt several times since.
“The parts of the bridges in the waterway have rotted out and the rest is in a variety of states,” he said.
“Any decent timber from the demolished bridge will be used to rehabilitate the two existing bridges and any leftover timber will be used for signage along the trail.”
Any wood not suitable for either of these applications will be offered to local community groups, such as men’s sheds.
Wood that is badly damaged will be disposed.
The Black Spur section will be the only place along the entire trail users can walk across original trestle bridges of significance.
Once the Black Spur section is constructed, responsibility for management of the trail will revert to the rail trail committee.
“This is why we are trying to do it as well as we can, so they are not plagued by large maintenance bills,” Mr Peterson said.
“The new deck of the bridges is likely to be concrete. The benefit of that is it will preserve the structure underneath and is basically maintenance free.
“It is also an option that will take any extra burden off the GSRT committee.”
Once finished, the first bridge will be rated to 15 tonnes, so it can be crossed by an ambulance to provide access to the second bridge.
The third bridge can be accessed via the Minns Road entrance if required.
Mr Peterson said he anticipates the Black Spur section of the trail would be a great drawcard for visitors, particularly when the area is in flood.
“So far, the construction is probably ahead of schedule but it is expected to be finished by December 2015. The Toora to Welshpool section will be officially opened on February 7,” he said.
Coming along: South Gippsland Shire Council’s Tony Peterson said the Black Spur section of the Great Southern Rail Trail was progressing well and would be ready for pedestrians in December.
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