Fast-tracking the planning for upgrades to Skyline Road

The Victorian Government is unlocking more tourism opportunities and growing jobs in Lake Eildon by fast tracking the planning of upgrades to the scenic Skyline Road.

Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas has announced $500,000 funding through the Labor Government’s Investment Fast Track (IFF) Fund to enable planning, consultation and detailed designs to construct the remaining 15 kilometres of Skyline Road.

The funding will enable the Mansfield and Murrindindi shire councils to complete necessary planning work ahead of sealing Skyline Road’s gravel surface.

The planning stage of the Skyline Road Tourism Precinct catalyst project will include design works to improve access for visitors and locals travelling between Eildon and Bonnie Doon.

The project forms part of the broader Lake Eildon Masterplan which received a $150,000 grant through the Government’s Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund in 2019 to reinvigorate its visitor appeal around Lake Eildon. The activation of Lake Eildon has also been a Goulburn Regional Partnership priority.

Skyline Road’s proposed upgrades will mark the first step in turning the Lake Eildon area into a premier tourism destination by opening the door to more food, beverage and accommodation investments as a result of easier road access.

The road is a key vantage point for sightseers to observe a snapshot of Lake Eildon and Victoria’s surrounding high country, with the road sealing upgrades opening the door to potential cycling events that will provide new experiences for visitors around Lake Eildon.

The Investment Fast Track Fund is taking projects from the ideas phase to be investment and development-ready, with grants of up to $500,000 for local councils, community organisations and the private sector for planning, design and business case works.

The Investment Fast Track Fund is part of the Victorian Government’s flagship Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund which helps businesses create more jobs in regional Victoria and supports councils to build the infrastructure locals and visitors need.

The Victorian Government has invested more than $700 million in its Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund since 2015, supporting around 13,000 jobs and delivering 1000 projects.

Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas said, “This project will provide an important gateway to drive more visitors into Lake Eildon, which in turn will support the regional economy and local jobs.”

Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes added, “Fast tracking the planning and upgrades of Skyline Road will set up Eildon and Bonnie Doon to tap into new local business investments, drawing in more visitors all-year-round.”

Image: A view of Lake Eildon from Skyline Road.