Geelong’s multi-award winning extreme arts walk – Mountain to Mouth (M~M2016) and the iconic Bellarine Railway are teaming up to give M~M2016 participants a choice of walking or riding a train (in one section) hauled by a historic locomotive during M~M2016.
M~M2016 is an 80km extreme arts journey of discovery over two days (6 - 7 May 2016) and 11 stages, with participants walking from the You Yangs mountain range through Central Geelong, along the Barwon River, via the Bellarine Peninsula and out to the mouth of the Barwon River at Barwon Heads. The route is punctuated with edgy artworks commissioned especially for M~M, bringing people together through shared experiences of extreme arts that celebrate the region.
The walk gives a rare opportunity for Geelong residents and visitors to walk across the land, with the 11 stages of the walk offering varying distances.
Now, M~M participants on day two of the event will have the opportunity to be on the historic train between Drysdale and Queenscliffe - participating in activities at the Drysdale Station and the Swan Bay Marine and Freshwater Discovery Centre.
City of Greater Geelong Bellarine Councillors John Irvine and Lindsay Ellis are encouraging people to either walk or ride the train during the extreme arts walk, which will take in stunning sights across the Bellarine Peninsula.
“During the journey you will pass through remnant bush land of the Bellarine Peninsula, before skirting the picturesque Swan Bay to arrive at Swan Bay Railway Station. The railway corridor features a variety of vistas to enjoy from the train, including an olive grove, vineyard and views of Queenscliff and Swan Bay,” said Cr Irvine.
“Upon arrival into Swan Bay, passengers are encouraged to include a visit to the Discovery Centre to gain an understanding of the marine and birdlife Swan Bay supports. The Centre has aquariums with local marine and freshwater life and a touch tank where visitors can get closer to animals like seastars and crabs,” said Cr Ellis.
Mayor of the Borough of Queenscliffe Hélène Cameron is encouraging people of all ages and abilities to hop onboard the M~M Railway and enjoy the experience from a unique perspective.
“The railway is an integral part of Queenscliff’s local history and the combination of arts, culture and community provides for a wonderful day trip for both walkers and passengers alike.”
Tickets for the M~M walk train special are $20 (adults), $15 (child, senior) and $40 (family ticket, 2 adults , up to 3 children) and can be purchased directly from the Bellarine Railway: http://bellarinerailway.com.au/mountain-to-mouth. Tickets for the walk can be purchased by visiting the M~M2016 website: www.mountaintomouth.com.au.
