We have chosen not to proceed with the proposed gravel trail extensions.

In addition to feedback received, the grant funding requires that all funded works be completed by March 2026.

As the grant funding timeframe does not allow for further redesign, investigation, or additional consultation to address concerns raised through consultation, the decision has been made not to proceed with the proposed gravel trail extensions.

The remaining unspent grant funds will be returned to the funding body, and this will conclude the remaining project works for the Raymond Island Koala Experience.

We would like to sincerely thank the Koala Island Foundation and all those who provided feedback for their collaboration, communication, and engagement throughout this project.

While this decision brings the project to a close, we acknowledge the Foundation’s ongoing interest in enhancing the walking trail network. There may be opportunities in the future for sections of the trail to be reviewed as part of broader community planning processes, should appropriate avenues arise.

As part of the Raymond Island Koala Trail and Discovery Experience, we’re proposing improvements to make our island safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

The proposed works include:

• A gravel footpath along a section of Fifth Parade
• A gravel footpath linking Third Parade and Eighth Avenue

These upgrades are designed to improve safety by giving pedestrians their own space, away from vehicle traffic.

We’d love to hear your thoughts.

Your input is important in shaping these improvements for our community. Please provide your feedback by 9 January 2026.

The proposed design is available here.

Raymond Island Koala Experience trail extensions at Tenth Avenue and Fourth Avenue -

Construction of the Koala Trail extensions is anticipated to commence in the coming weeks; a set date will be advised when available.

The works will be undertaken by the crew at GLaWAC, and will complete the Abbey loop.

The development of this more formalised walking trail will enhance the overall experience by connecting existing fragmented sections of trail and will provide a stable walking path which will improve accessibility to meet the needs of the community and visitors to the area.

By providing designated walkway we aim to help protect the local ecosystem by keeping visitors on a defined path, reducing the negative impact of trampling or littering on the environment, and provide further opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife observation, and nature photography.

Please choose to follow this project on Your Say to receive important information regarding this project directly to your inbox.

As part of the Koala Trail and Discovery Experience there has been works undertaken to the gardens and the landscaping to improve the ‘gateway’ within Ferry Park reserve.

These works will be finalised over the following weeks and will carrying out the below:

• Install steel edging between lawn and garden
• Aerate existing lawn and top dress with blended lawn soil
• Rejuvenate existing gardens through pruning and weed control
• Add new plants to replace dead ones and as required
• Apply appropriate fertilizer
• Spread mulch
• New garden area created around large rock on the west end of the BBQ Shelter
• New garden area created from spoil piles on the east end of the BBQ shelter.

The new plants will be drought tolerant and will keep with the characteristics of the Ferry Park and build on the current environment.

Also, as part of the trail extension works there will be additional gravel paths created with the road reserve of Fifth Parade and also providing connection from Third Parade to Eighth Avenue, this will provide safer access for people and help to reduce the pedestrian traffic from the road. CLICK HERE to view the additional path alignments.

Raymond Island Coastal Saltmarsh Project Proposal

Koala Island Foundation Inc., along with Raymond Island Landcare have been instrumental in bringing this proposal to fruition.

A key project under the grant funding is environmental stewardship and with this the protection of the Coastal Saltmarsh area stretching from Point Montague to the Ferry carpark on Raymond Island.

The project proposal will allow the installation of fencing to be installed to assist the area to regenerate and encourage the native flora and fauna to return.

Koala Island Foundation Inc. in collaboration with EGSC have finalised the new information signage and trail markers. This signage will have a built in QR code for locals and visitors to be able to access further information.

A new toilet facility and shelter will be designed and constructed near the trail in the reserve area adjacent twelfth Avenue.

Investigation into the location of paths along Fifth Parade and Third Parade, this will reduce pedestrian traffic within the road and create a safe connection to the koala loop.

Trail extensions will be completed to access The Abbey and continue on from the work that has been completed by GLaWAC and Parks Victoria.