As we enter a pivotal year for the Castlemaine Maryborough Rail Trail (CMRT), our focus is firmly on building the foundations that will carry this project from vision to delivery.
The year ahead will be defined by three interlinked priorities: strategy, business planning, and construction readiness. Together, these streams of work are essential to ensuring the project is credible, fundable and ready to proceed when construction approvals and funding align.
Strategy This year we will sharpen our strategic focus, aligning our advocacy, partnerships and fundraising efforts behind a clear pathway to delivery. With growing interest from government, philanthropy and the community, it is critical that CMRT presents a coherent, well-sequenced strategy that demonstrates both ambition and discipline.
Business planning We will continue to strengthen our business case, ensuring that the long-term economic, tourism, health and social benefits of the trail are clearly articulated and supported by robust evidence. This work underpins our engagement with funders and decision-makers and positions the trail as a sound regional investment.
Construction readiness Finally, we will focus on stage 3 construction activities to ensure the project is genuinely “shovel-ready” when opportunities arise. This includes progressing design assumptions, approvals pathways, land and corridor considerations, and implementation staging. Being prepared is essential to moving quickly when funding windows open.
I am confident that this disciplined and methodical approach will strengthen CMRT’s credibility and momentum. With the continued support of our committee, members, partners and community, this year will be about turning years of advocacy and planning into tangible progress.
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to the Castlemaine Maryborough Rail Trail. I look forward to sharing milestones with you as the year unfolds.
Janice Simpson President