Community Independent candidate for Corangamite, Kate Lockhart, has criticised the Liberal Party’s recent $2 million bike path pledge as a “classic pre-election media stunt,” urging voters not to be misled by what she described as a repackaging of an old promise.

“It’s great to see strong support for bike infrastructure in our region,” said Lockhart. “A safe, dedicated path connecting Torquay to Armstrong Creek is something many locals – myself included – have long supported. It’s in line with our community’s vision for safer, more sustainable transport options.”

However, Lockhart argues the timing and presentation of the announcement are misleading. “Let’s be very clear: the $2 million announced is not new money given to us by the Liberal Party. This is taxpayers’ money. Our money,” she said. “And this particular bike path has been on the drawing board for years.”

Lockhart accused the Liberals of engaging in “sneaky, sleight-of-hand politics,” claiming the re-announcement was more about headlines than helping the community.

“We need to move beyond this old game where decisions are made based on timing and headlines, not genuine community need or long-term strategy,” she said.

As an Independent, Lockhart said she would take a different approach to infrastructure planning. “I won’t be throwing money at a bike path, then go missing till the next election cycle,” she said. “I’ll be working with the community to take a proper look at all the missing cycling links in our region, be consultative, strategic and prioritise based on need.”

She also called for better public transport options and safer access to schools and sports grounds. “This isn’t just about weekend riders,” she said. “In the Bellarine, the Drysdale Sports and Education Precinct is another area that needs to be strategically connected to keep kids moving safely between school, sports and home.”

Lockhart called for voters to support leadership with “integrity and genuine representation.”

“Let’s support active transport because it makes our communities healthier and more connected. Let’s not fall for a cheap and inauthentic stunt to secure strategic votes in the election.”

More information about Kate Lockhart’s election campaign can be found on www.katelockhart.au