Life down the track | ourballarat spring 2023
The trails and tracks of Ballarat are developing into one of the city’s great free recreational assets, but where have they come from and where are they heading?
City of Ballarat Supervisor Trails and Waterways, Ken Cox has been looking after Ballarat’s tracks and trails for more than 25 years. 
His position started after an idea was floated to upgrade a piece of track along the Yarrowee River corridor. At the time there was no dedicated City of Ballarat budget, and tracks were often overgrown, rough and slippery.
Today the Trails and Waterways team looks after about 80 kilometres of tracks, trails and paths, with a further 25 kilometres under their maintenance on the Ballarat - Skipton Rail Trail and Buninyong to the Mount Summit Loops.
The tracks cater for all levels of adventure whether hiking, mountain biking or those out for a Sunday stroll.
More than a track
Ken says that one of the most pleasurable aspects of his job today is the appreciation he and his staff often receive from passers-by.
“Many would not realise the work that goes into the building and designing of a track and its path,” he says.
Other considerations, include managing run-off, tree planting, pruning, creating wetlands re-sheeting surfaces, fencing off, creating off-site watering for stock and respecting cultural heritage.
“It only takes one member of the public to stop and say thanks and it makes it all worthwhile.”
So where are our Ballarat tracks heading?
The ‘Yarrowee River and Tributaries: River Corridor Masterplan Plan 2020’ reflects a 25-year investment in taking care of the Yarrowee River corridor and the trails along it.
The comprehensive plan looks at access and trails, rehabilitation, regeneration and vegetation management as well as water quality and wetlands.
The plan is underwritten by a focus on the ongoing sustainable management of the corridor.
Ken says the trails and waterways team are gradually linking trails and creating extensive walks and loops for a more diverse experience.
“The Yarrowee River Corridor trail between Docwra Street and Gong Gong Reservoir is a prime example, with about 19 kilometres of continuous track providing a terrific trail experience through several different landscapes. Keeping our trails and tracks interesting is what it is all about.”