Travellers have been taking this historic journey from Heathcote to Bendigo since 1888, when the railway line first linked the towns. Trains stopped running in 1956, and the route lay largely dormant until the first section of the O’Keefe Rail Trail opened in 1993.
This line, including 50 bridges, took 21 months to complete at a cost of 88,409 pounds, and two derailments in the process. Today the recreational trail beside the old railway line again allows users to journey the full 50 kilometres, albeit at a slightly slower pace. It’s just as well too, as there’s lots to take in.
This safe, mostly-level walking and cycling trail is one of Victoria’s great family-friendly journeys. It passes through some spectacular natural bushland, past waterways and recreation reserves, perfect for picnics, wildflower or platypus spotting.
To ensure users are supported through their journey, the trail also offers on-trail water stations at key locations (Junortoun and Axedale), bike repair stations (Junortoun, Axedale and Heathcote), shelters, tables and interpretative and directional signage along the 49km trail.
Begin your journey in Heathcote, with the trail starting off at Herriot Street were parking is available. This is the perfect beginning (and potential end!) as it's nestled amongst great cafes, wineries and bed & breakfasts. The half-way point of Axedale features the beautiful Campaspe River Reserve, ideal for re-charging by the water. There is also the opportunity to do a shorter trip between Heathcote and Axedale, with parking located at the Axedale Hall Reserve.
The rail trail between Heathcote and Bendigo was completed in 2015, with funding from the Victorian Government and the City of Greater Bendigo. Passionate community group The Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail Inc, continue to be instrumental in the development, care and promotion of the trail, for the enjoyment of locals and visitors.
Please click here to download and view the latest O’Keefe Rail Trail brochure which provides:
• A detailed map of the trail
• Access points
• Experiences available along the trail
• Trail history
• Trail etiquette
O'Keefe Rail Trail – What did you think?
The Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail are keen to gain valuable feedback from users of the O'Keefe Rail Trail. Your feedback will assist with trail improvements and ongoing trail development.
Take the short survey now: www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/okeefetrailsurvey
Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail
The Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail Inc. are a passionate community group who recognise the potential of a long distance trail on or near the route of the former Wandong, Heathcote, Sandhurst Railway.
This group acts as a specialist trail advisory body to local governments, assists in the current O’Keefe Rail Trail extension projects and cares about community health relating to cycling and to stimulate interest and enthusiasm on the developments. Without the support of the Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail group, the Rail Trail would not be where it is today.
For further information please visit the following websites:
Rail Trails Australia:
http://www.railtrails.org.au/trail-descriptions/victoria/northern-victoria?view=trail&id=100
Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail:
http://bendigokilmorerailtrail.com