Most of the Wadandi Track’s $17.5 million expansion funding has now been allocated to the City of Busselton and Shire of Augusta Margaret River as the extension to 110 kilometres kicks on in earnest. When completed in 2028, it will be one of the longest trails in Australia.

Work is progressing in construction, bridge and drainage works, wayfinding and signage along with a track management plan, activation and engagement strategies, as well as evaluation planning and implementation, according to the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI).

“Review of the Wadandi Track alignment, environmental surveys and bridge assessments are already taking place, and almost 6000 cubic metres of limestone, surplus material sourced from nearby major transport projects, has been secured for the trail – the equivalent of around two and a half Olympic sized swimming pools,” DTMI said.

The project will convert the current 46km of segmented Track to a 110km continuous riding and walking trail between Busselton Jetty and Flinders Bay. It is governed by the Wadandi Track Project Steering Group, with members from DTMI, local governments, the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), Main Roads WA and Tourism WA.

“Investment in cycling tourism infrastructure brings considerable benefit to local economies and can help regional communities to thrive, diversify and sustain themselves,” said DTMI project lead Danielle Stone.

“Rail trails offer countless opportunities and provide crucial active transport links between communities.”