Lower South West receives $45,000 for sustainable trails to boost tourism and economy

Two organisations in the Lower South West have received $45,000 as part of a $331,302 State Government investment for sustainable trails through the WA Trail Planning Grants Program. The Pemberton Cycling Association’s Arboretum Trail Development in Pemberton ($25,000) and the Recreational Trailbike Riders Association of WA’s Manjimup-Perth Ride Trail ($20,000) are two of 16 projects across WA to receive the investment into trail experiences in a bid to boost local economies and tourism initiatives. Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie said the funding was a great opportunity to engage visitors to the region. “We love our trail experiences in Warren-Blackwood, which is why it’s so great to see four of our iconic trails receiving a funding boost,” she said. “The funding program aims to support the sustainable development of our recreational trails and to ensure more people are connected to country through trail experience. “This funding will help maintain our trails and ensure that many thousands of people who visit here each year have an adventure they never forget.” The grant program is intended to be aligned with the 2022-27 WA Strategic Trails Blueprint to enhance trail experiences in the awarded areas. Minister for Sport and Recreation David Templeman said the increasing demand for trails across WA showed the importance of providing the best possible trail experience to locals and visitors. “Tourism is now playing a more significant role in the development of trails, as visitors look for interesting, challenging, authentic and unique experiences as part of their holidays and travels,” he said. “This investment in our trails has clear social and economic benefits for individual communities, regional tourism and the State as a whole.”