The number of people using the Port Fairy to Warrnambool Rail Trail is surging.
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The 37km path has proved a popular recreational route for many during the strict COVID-19 social restrictions.
Rail trail committee of management secretary Ian Bodycoat said user numbers were well up.
"We have a counter in place at the Koroit Railway Station and it has told us 4000 people a month have used the rail trail during the isolation period," Mr Bodycoat said.
"That's an increase of about 20 per cent.
"There are a lot of people riding their bikes but even more walking.
"Mum, dad and the kids are using it the most, there have been a lot of family groups.
"It is fantastic to see so many people using the rail trail, I think the fact it is safe and off the road makes it the perfect place for people to exercise."
Koroit's Eleanor Gibson is a regular user of the rail trail.
Ms Gibson said the rail trail was an important community asset.
"We use the rail trail a lot and during this time it has been lovely," Ms Gibson said.
"The kids have needed that exercise and it is the perfect place to do that.
"And now the restrictions have been lifted slightly, it is a good place to meet friends and start getting back towards normal.
"The playground can't be used at the moment but the trees along the rail trail are great for the kids to explore."
As well as a playground, the Koroit Railway Station section of the rail trail has an exercise station, with various pieces of fitness equipment in place.
The equipment was installed as part of a partnership between the rail trail committee of management and the Koroit Lions Club just before the COVID-19 pandemic struck.
The exercise circuit and playground have been closed as part of the restrictions which aimed to stop the spread of coronavirus.
The rail trail is maintained by volunteers from the friends of the rail trail group.
In normal times, up to 30 members of this group converge on the rail trail at any one time to carry out maintenance work.
Mr Bodycoat said the group was looking to again slowly step up its efforts as restrictions begin to ease.
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