“LONG live Tumbatrek, long live Tumbarumba and long live Tumbarumba Shire.”
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
They are the words of Albury MP Greg Aplin as he wrapped up the most politically-charged hike through the Tumbarumba mountains in living memory.
The annual event, which attracts politicians and non-politicians alike, was a melting pot of emotion as the town used the opportunity to flex its muscles on forced mergers.
There was also a push to unlock the tourism potential of the area and a controversial call from former deputy prime minister Tim Fischer as he went into battle against landholders, insisting they “shut up” and embrace rail trails.
Mr Fischer said bushwalking and rail trails "makes a lot of sense” for the Riverina.
“They are low-cost tourism that can attract five-star restaurants and accommodation along the way,” he said.
“I think the fact over 100 walked 10 kilometres on this Tumbatrek was a sharp reminder of the secret jewels of the Riverina.
“There must be as a minimum a Tumbarumba to Tarcutta rail trail sooner rather than later.”
Mr Fischer said landholder fears that tourist rail trails were an invasion of private property are “totally misjudged”.
“They’ve totally misjudged and exaggerated the amount of disruption with the modern self-locking gates and everything else that can be put on,” he said.
“Secondly, they’re missing out on the bonus on perhaps making money on the trails along the way.
“A general consensus is achievable and the issues should be kept in perspective.
“The hard-working but acerbic, extreme militants against the bike trails need to come and have a good look at north-east Victoria and shut up.”
Riverina MP Michael McCormack said Tumbatrek was back “bigger than ever” and that boded well for firing up future tourism.
“This is untapped potential right here,” he said.
“The importance will be to get more exposure in the years ahead … it needs to be on a national level and hopefully we can do that by attracting big-name politicians and big media.”
Many Tumbarumba locals, dressed in orange in a show of support for their council, told the Advertiser a merger with Tumut would “destroy” their community.
