The History Of The Great Southern Rail Trail

Winding through rolling farmland, lush forests, and charming country towns, the Great Southern Rail Trail is more than just a cycling and walking track—it’s a journey through the heart of Gippsland’s rich history. Stretching over 100 kilometers from Nyora to Welshpool, this scenic trail follows the route of a former railway line that once connected communities, fueled regional growth, and brought the sounds of steam trains to Victoria’s south-east.

The original Great Southern Railway was developed in the late 19th century, with the first sections opening in 1892. Designed to link the agricultural regions of South Gippsland to Melbourne, the line played a crucial role in transporting timber, dairy products, livestock, and passengers across the region.

Stations popped up in towns like Korumburra, Leongatha, Foster, and Toora, turning quiet settlements into bustling hubs. The railway brought opportunity, communication, and economic vitality to an otherwise remote corner of Victoria.

As road transport became more efficient and widespread, the importance of the railway began to fade. Over the decades, passenger services dwindled and goods transport shifted to trucks. By the early 1990s, most of the line had been officially closed, with the last freight train rolling through in 1994.

The railway infrastructure began to decay, and many feared that the historical line would be lost to time.

Instead of letting the corridor disappear, communities and councils saw a new opportunity—to repurpose the route as a rail trail for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. Slowly but surely, the disused rail line was transformed into a recreational trail that preserved the region’s heritage while promoting eco-tourism and healthy living.

The first sections of the Great Southern Rail Trail opened in the late 1990s and early 2000s, and extensions have continued into the 2020s, with the trail now stretching over 100km, making it one of the longest continuous rail trails in Victoria.