Cyclists, rollerbladers, walkers and community advocates have come together to mark the official opening of the newest section of the North West Coastal Pathway.
Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing and Liberal Member for Braddon, Roger Jaensch, said the pathway is already proving popular with locals and visitors alike.
“The North West Coastal Pathway will ultimately run continuously all the way from Wynyard to Latrobe, and every time we close a gap linking sections together we get closer to that vision,” Minister Jaensch said.
“The Tasmanian Government provided $13.86 million for the most recent portion of the project, between Cooee and Wynyard, which involved construction of the pathway itself as well as significant works to protect the pathway corridor from future erosion.
“The coastal pathway does more than offer active transport across 110 km and five council areas, it also helps people to come together socially to exercise and enjoy being physically active outdoors with friends.”
Minister Jaensch thanked Burnie cycling advocate Keith Price for being the community driving force behind the project, which has taken more than a decade to come to fruition.
He said investments of public money into projects like this one had far reaching effects in the community.
“People are already starting to own and occupy this pathway, like Keith knew they would all those years ago,” Minister Jaensch said.
“That is good for people’s hearts, minds and bodies all at the same time.”
The Tasmanian Government is making significant investment into support for stronger communities, as well as mental health and wellbeing initiatives, through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future
Image: Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Roger Jaensch, Federal Member for Braddon Gavin Pearce, Waratah Wynyard Council Mayor Mary Duniam and Liberal Member for Montgomery Leonie Hiscutt.