Trail signs another step forward

Published on 13 December 2013

Twelve walking trails across Loddon Shire will get brand-new signage early next year, but residents are invited to have their say first.

Draft signs have been prepared, but Council is keen to hear feedback from interested people on their style and content.

The trails concerned are around Boort, Bridgewater, Inglewood, Laanecoorie, Pyramid Hill, Serpentine, Tarnagulla and Wedderburn.

Manager Community Planning Tim Jenkyn said this week the project had been under way since 2012, but commencing after flood restoration works to the trails and their surrounds.

“Council identified in its Tracks and Trails Strategy that a key aim was consistent signing and marking of walking trails,” Mr Jenkyn said.

“This was a Shire-wide initiative, so has taken some time to roll out, but we are close to completion now.

“The tracks and trails are graded to national standards for walking, access and, where appropriate, cycling and horse-riding and consistent icons show areas of interest and rest areas, over a background aerial image, to help you get your bearings.

“Distances are provided so you can determine if you would like to walk whole or part of the trail and the design also doubles as a brochure, so can be printed when needed.

“A Quick Response, or QR, code will be produced for each trail so the sign and map can be loaded directly into a smartphone or computer.

“GPS data on all trails can also be accessed from the web and any risks are clearly spelt out.

“Now that this project is so close to finishing, we have begun work on the next one – canoe trails along the Loddon River.”

To see the draft signage, go to www.clockworkthree.com/preview/loddontrails/

To give your feedback, please phone Tim Jenkyn on 5494 1200.