Federal, State and Local Government representatives, along with bike and rail enthusiasts, will gather at Mount Torrens today to celebrate the official opening of the Amy Gillett Bikeway extension from Mt Torrens to Birdwood.
The project adds another 5.7 kilometres to the already popular bikeway, extending it from Mount Torrens through to Birdwood and bringing its total length to 22 kilometres along the old railway trail. The new section delivers another scenic and safe route through the Adelaide Hills, further enhancing one of the region’s most loved recreational assets.
The launch event will mark the completion of the long-awaited extension with a celebratory inaugural ride. A Bike SA riding group and community cyclists will take to the trail, heading through the starting line for the first official journey along the new stage.
This latest expansion includes two new creek bridges and an impressive truss bridge spanning the heritage Burford Hills Rail Bridge. The design not only adds to the bikeway’s functionality but also honours its history. Council is collaborating with local history and railway groups to bring the heritage of the former rail trail to life through interpretive signage and digital storytelling.
The project has been made possible through a joint funding commitment, with the Federal and State Governments each contributing $2.6 million, alongside a $500,000 investment from Adelaide Hills Council. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to promoting active lifestyles, tourism, and sustainable regional infrastructure.
Beyond the bikeway itself, Adelaide Hills Council and partners have an ambitious vision to create the Great Australian Wine Trail — a proposed 280-kilometre network that would connect the McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills, Barossa, Eden Valley and Clare wine regions. The initiative aims to link some of Australia’s most celebrated wine destinations, offering visitors an immersive way to experience the state’s food and wine culture by bike.
The Amy Gillett Bikeway stands as a lasting tribute to professional South Australian cyclist Amy Gillett, who tragically lost her life on a training ride in Germany in 2005. The extension continues her legacy by encouraging safe cycling and fostering a love of the sport across generations.
Adelaide Hills Council Acting Mayor Nathan Daniell said the project was the result of years of advocacy and community effort.
“After many years of Council and community advocacy, I’m delighted that we have delivered Stage 4 of the Amy Gillett Bikeway,” he said. “This extension enhances an already much-loved community asset and provides a safe space for both residents and tourists to actively explore our beautiful Hills countryside.”
“This is undoubtedly my favourite part of the bikeway, winding almost entirely through rural farming, grape growing and natural bushland. Adelaide Hills Council, together with our regional partners, also has a bold vision to establish the Great Australian Wine Trail — a 280-kilometre network connecting the Clare Valley, Barossa Valley, Adelaide Hills, Eden Valley and McLaren Vale.
“This initiative will link some of the nation’s most celebrated wine regions, inviting visitors to actively explore South Australia’s renowned wine and food offerings. It’s an ambitious project that will help drive regional tourism, boost local economies, and showcase our state as Australia’s premier destination for wine and cycling experiences.”
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