The Rail Trail is closed in 2 sections due to flood damage.
Extreme caution needed along the Trail after heavy rains in Gippsland.
No Through access:
📍 North of Cowwarr &
📍 Fells Creek, Toongabbie.
Trail is CLOSED at Fells Creek, between Afflicks Rd and Traralgon-Maffra Rd to the north of Toongabbie, and North of Cowwarr. Please see attached maps for specific locations. There are no formal alternative routes around the closures.
The Cowwarr and Fells Creek flood damage is significant. We are working with West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority to fix the problems. We also need to find funds for major repairs. We estimate three (3) weeks for the Cowwarr repairs and Fells Creek is unknown at this stage.
Thank you for your patience regarding these closures.
Regards
Helen Hoppner, President
Gippsland Plains Rail Trail
Fells Creek is very deep and eroded at this location and these pictures show serious damage and potential for a full collapse. We are awaiting advice and forming a plan to secure the area. Please be patient with our volunteer teams while we access the damage and be guided by the signage or closed gates which have been installed for public safety. [Images supplied by volunteers & community members 04/10/2026]
Volunteers keep the Trail operating
The Trail is a significant community asset and provides a wide range of benefits to the Gippsland community including socially, environmentally (retention of remnant vegetation) and economically, as a fabulous tourist destination all throughout the year. The Gippsland Plains Rail Trail Committee of Management works diligently in ensuring the preservation of the 63 kms of the trail, with an extensive volunteer network, from Traralgon to Stratford, who assist in the regular maintenance and management of the trail.
New members, groups or individuals are always welcome to join the Friends of the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail. If you would like to join the friendly network of trail users and supporters register your interest here.