Walking and Cycling Strategy

We're inviting community feedback on our Draft Walking and Cycling Strategy 2026–2030.

The updated Strategy sets out a clearer, more connected and financially sustainable approach to improving walking and cycling across the Shire – including Maryborough, Bealiba, Carisbrook, Dunolly and Talbot.

Supported by funding from the Transport Accident Commission (TAC), the review ensures alignment with the Victorian Road Safety Strategy 2021–2030 and reflects Council’s current strategic objectives, Asset Plan and Long‑Term Financial Plan.

The Strategy focuses on maintaining and renewing the Shire’s existing 63.6km network of footpaths and shared paths, while identifying and prioritising where new links are needed to maximise connectivity.

It highlights that an additional 39.9km of bike and shared walking/cycling paths are required to connect key work, school and recreation destinations — at an estimated cost of $14.655 million.

The scale of investment required exceeds Council’s current financial capacity, so securing State and Federal Government funding will be necessary to achieving many of the Strategy’s longer‑term objectives.

The Strategy adopts a staged and prioritised approach to implementation and acknowledges that external funding will be essential to delivering the broader network over time.

Your feedback will help ensure the Strategy reflects current needs and emerging issues.

Please complete the survey below to have your say. Feedback closes 5pm, Friday 18 September 2026.

QUICK FACTS:

Length of existing walking and cycling paths in Central Goldfields Shire: 63.6km

Replacement value of current pathway network: $18.1 million

Cost to maintain existing walking and cycling paths: $306,000 per year

Length of missing connectivity links: 39.9km

Estimated cost to deliver missing links: $14.655 million