Bicycle Queensland has welcomed three significant funding announcements for mountain bike trail networks across the state, highlighting the growing recognition of cycling infrastructure as an investment in healthier communities, regional tourism and Queensland’s outdoor lifestyle.
The funding includes $355,000 to Gold Coast Mountain Bike Club (GCMTB) for repairs to the Nerang National Park trail network on the Gold Coast as part of the Sport and Recreation Recovery Grants developed by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments. GCMTB President Bryan King said the club’s limited volunteer resources were insufficient to repair the extensive damage caused by Tropical Cyclone Alfred across the trail network.
“Without funding from the Sport and Recreation Recovery Grant, we would not be able to restore the trails to a safe and sustainable condition, putting the entire network at risk of closure since Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service has extremely limited funding which does not stretch to cover all needed mountain bike trail maintenance.”
Other clubs have received funding through other schemes, with $1.1 million for repairs at Douglas Mountain Bike Park in Townsville through the efforts of the Townsville Rockwheelers, and $813,000 for repairs and improvements at First Turkey Mountain Bike Reserve in Rockhampton via Rockhampton Mountain Bike Club.
The club has grand plans for further expansion at First Turkey, including an 8km gravity trail from the top of Mount Archer. Given the club has attracted state level gravity events, the further investment would be a bonus for tourism and would help attract state or national level events.
Bicycle Queensland Director of Advocacy, Andrew Demack, said the announcements were an important step towards growing participation in riding across Queensland.
“Formal, sustainable mountain bike facilities provide safe and accessible places for people of all ages and abilities to ride,” Demack said.
“These trail networks are community assets that support physical activity, connect people with nature and create opportunities for families and friends to spend time outdoors together. Continued investment in quality facilities helps more Queenslanders discover the benefits of riding.”
Mountain biking continues to grow in popularity across Australia, with trail networks increasingly recognised as valuable recreational infrastructure that delivers social, health and economic benefits to local communities.
Bicycle Queensland CEO Dr Matthew Burke said investment in mountain bike facilities also aligns with the state’s long-term economic and tourism ambitions.
“Queensland is blessed with incredible landscapes and outdoor destinations. High-quality mountain bike facilities attract visitors, support local businesses and help regional communities diversify their tourism offerings,” Dr Burke said.
“These projects demonstrate how investment in riding infrastructure contributes to healthier communities while supporting the Queensland Government’s vision for a thriving and active state. We congratulate the local clubs, volunteers and councils whose advocacy and hard work have helped secure this funding.”
The continued growth and improvement of formal mountain bike facilities across the state will be essential to supporting the future of bike riding in Queensland and ensuring more people have access to safe, enjoyable places to ride. Or as we like to say, it’s an essential part of having local trails for local kids.
Bicycle Queensland advocates for all types of riders. Membership supports BQ’s advocacy work around the state, while also offering extensive membership benefits.
