Sustainable, car-free connections between Geelong and Torquay would be a gamechanger for Victoria’s fastest growing communities.

The City and Surf Coast Shire councils are seeking $12.5 million for detailed planning and design for a staged delivery of a public transport vehicle-only corridor that would link Marshall Station and Armstrong Creek Town Centre, with potential to then run parallel with the Surf Coast Highway to Torquay.

City of Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM said the proposal was essential infrastructure for high-density housing developments, reducing traffic congestion and providing an efficient connection for residents and visitors. 

Greater Geelong and the Surf Coast are among Victoria’s fastest-growing regions, with Armstrong Creek expected to exceed 55,000 residents. With land already reserved between Marshall Station and Armstrong Creek Town Centre, the project has a strong foundation for future delivery and reduced planning risk. We need to look at other cities to see how people move around. I’d like to explore whether a trackless tram, a light rail like the one operating at Glenelg in Adelaide, or something similar would work here.

In addition, Greater Geelong and Surf Coast Shire councils are also advocating for a Geelong-Torquay safe cycling link - an off-road shared path adjacent to Horseshoe Bend Road.

Surf Coast Shire Mayor Libby Stapleton said public transport and active travel connections must be part of the state’s long-term plan for the region.

The Surf Coast is one of Victoria’s most valued places to live, work, study and visit, and we need transport infrastructure that keeps pace with our growth and supports our future. With some innovative thinking and smart planning, we can come up with a solution that will serve our communities well for generations to come.

Find out more about the two Priority Projects on our advocacy page.