Construction of the long-awaited Somerville to Baxter Trail commenced last week, with a sod-turning ceremony marking the beginning of the project. Mayor Cr Anthony Marsh, Cr Kate Roper, and State Member Paul Mercurio MP attended the event to celebrate the milestone.
Federal Member for Flinders, Zoe McKenzie MP, however, was notably absent and later addressed the matter in a social media post.
Zoe McKenzie’s Polite Reminder
In her post, McKenzie politely noted that she had not been invited to the ceremony, despite the former LNP federal government’s significant $4 million contribution to the $9.8 million project. She highlighted the funding commitments from the state government ($3 million) and the Mornington Peninsula Shire ($2.8 million) and acknowledged the project’s importance to the community.
McKenzie also referenced delays in the trail’s planning, which led to $2 million of federal funding being redirected to the Flinders Civic Hall project. Additionally, she expressed broader concerns about infrastructure funding cuts affecting the Mornington Peninsula, including the cancellation of the Jetty Road overpass and the Baxter Rail upgrade.
Ending her post on a constructive note, McKenzie offered her future availability, stating:
“I’m handy with a shovel—so don’t be shy.”
Mayor Marsh’s Response
Mayor Anthony Marsh responded promptly to McKenzie’s post, acknowledging the federal contribution and expressing regret for the oversight.
“I’m sorry we didn’t get to dig together, Zoe McKenzie MP! Both the Shire and the local community are very grateful for this funding commitment, and I’m stoked to see it turn an idea into a tangible project for locals,”
Marsh said.
About the Trail
The Somerville to Baxter Trail is part of the broader Peninsula Link initiative, which aims to enhance connectivity and recreation opportunities across the region. With construction now underway, the project is expected to bring long-term benefits to the community, providing an accessible pathway linking Somerville and Baxter.
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