A new shared pathway for cyclists and walkers has transformed a former rail line along Tasmania’s north-west coast.
Connecting Wynyard and Burnie, the $15.72 million project has replaced the once-industrial rail line with a 13.2km ocean-side path.
The Tasmanian Government contributed $13.86 million, while Waratah-Wynyard and Burnie councils provided the remaining $1.86 million.
Over 250 locals, including organised groups of cyclists who rode together from both Burnie and Wynyard, gathered at Anzac Park in Somerset for the official opening ceremony on Thursday.
Waratah-Wynyard Mayor Mary Duniam said she hopes the Coastal Pathway will expand further west in future.
“This is an investment that aligns deeply with our environmental, community and health and well-being goals,” she said.
Burnie City Council Mayor Teeny Brumby encouraged people to get active and connect with nature through the new path.
“The benefits of being outdoors, engaging in physical activity and building those personal connections are invaluable to the wellbeing of our region,” she said.
Local resident Keith Price, who has advocated for the project for over two decades, led the contingent of cyclists who rode to the opening from Burnie.
“Now it’s safe to ride there can be no excuses,” he said.
“Get your bikes out and go for it.”
