JUST in time for the summer holidays, the Dunkeld Visitor Hub project has been completed, offering hikers and tourists an upgraded central location to begin their exploration of the region.
Western Victoria MP, Jacinta Ermacora, on Wednesday represented Regional Development minister, Gayle Tierney, to visit the upgraded trailhead and visitor hub in the centre of town – backed by a $450,000 investment from the State Government.
The project adds to Dunkeld’s growing reputation as a top destination for hikers with its world-class Grampians Peaks Trail (GPT) – a unique 164-kilometre hiking trail through the Grampians National Park.
Starting at the sandstone outcrops of Mt Zero in the north, the trail passes south over the summit of Mt Difficult, through Halls Gap, continuing to Mount Abrupt, before reaching Dunkeld 13 days later.
The upgrade includes a new covered platform where hikers can stop and rest, upgrades to the trailhead to make it easier for people to set off with almost 1.5 kilometres of new pathways, signs linking the trailhead, an information centre, public toilets and Memorial Park.
Also featuring improved parking and a pedestrian refuge for safer crossing at Parker Street, Ms Ermacora said she expected “the significantly improved facilities” would have a positive impact on the town.
“We are proud to back an initiative like this, attracting more tourists to Dunkeld, and boosting jobs and the local economy,” she said.
With the GPT gathering momentum since its opening in 2021, the creation of new options for walking and cycling will further boost the prestige of the town for those visiting.
Not that locals will be left out – the project also creates a ‘town square’ with a loop walk, creating a space to enjoy for Dunkeld residents.
The Federal Government and Southern Grampians Shire also contributed to the project.
For more information go to rdv.vic.gov.au
