In exciting news for the communities of the Upper Kiewa Valley, the three kilometre walking path around Mount Beauty Pondage is set to be renewed from Monday, 20 April 2026, following the school holidays.
The works will see the path widened to two metres, the laying of a new asphalt surface, and the shoulders on either side redressed with topsoil and grass seed.
To accommodate the works, the path will be closed in staged sections for approximately of four weeks, subject to weather.
The timing was chosen to ensure that the works were conducted in an appropriate weather window whilst avoiding clashes with the planned Mt Beauty Running Festival.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, said that these works reflected the importance of the walking path to the residents and visitors of the Upper Kiewa Valley.
"It is spectacular walking, running, or riding around the Mount Beauty Pondage with the tranquility of the water beside you and Mount Bogong in front of you," she said.
"There is also a beautiful outlook the other way, not to mention the north and south views from the elevated dam wall.
"We're pleased to be able to lay down a new asphalt surface so that people can continue to use the path for decades into the future."
Cr Nicholas also recognised the support of AGL as the land manager of the dam wall.
"We thank AGL for their support for this renewal," she said.
"While the path is a Council asset, their consent as the land manager means that we're able to ensure the best outcomes for community members and visitors alike."
There will be signage at entry and exit points of the walking path during the closures.
Residents and visitors are asked to please respect all signage and seek other paths during this complex renewal process.
The contract for the Mount Beauty Pondage walk renewal was awarded to Richardson Earthworks and Maintenance for the lump sum price of $237,855 (excluding GST).