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Mountain bike precinct in Perth Hills priority in State Govt plan

Laura PondHills Avon Valley Gazette

CREATING a mountain bike precinct in the Perth Hills is the top priority of a plan released by the State Government.

Prepared by WestCycle with funding from Lotterywest and the Department of Parks and Wildlife, the draft Perth and Peel Mountain Bike Master Plan 2016-2026 recommends building 575km of mountain bike trails across 24 sites.

It lists the Hills precinct as the highest priority and said it had the opportunity to become “the Perth and Peel Regions prominent mountain bike recreation destination”.

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The development would comprise at least 120km of trails and multiple trail hubs and centres within Kalamunda, Beelu, Korung and John Forrest national parks, Helena Valley, Greenmount and Kalamunda reserves, Mundy Regional Park and Greenmount State Forrest.

The plan said the area could attract interstate visitors interested in mountain bike riding.

Dwellingup and Wungong were also identified as high priority sites, while a trail hub was recommended in the Swan Valley and networks suggested in the Avon Valley and Chidlow.

Environment Minister Albert Jacob said mountain biking was one of the fastest growing recreational pursuits.

“This draft plan identifies the mountain bike experiences that these regions can offer while fostering greater community participation and providing tourism opportunities,” he said.

“It recommends developing international mountain bike destinations capable of providing a multitude of economic, tourism, environmental, health, social and community benefits.”

Sport and Recreation Minister Mia Davies said the plan was the result of detailed assessment and consultation, and included a review of existing mountain bike trails, infrastructure, events, tourism and commercial opportunities.

“This has ensured best practice in the development of international mountain bike destinations with a number of opportunities identified, including the expansion of the existing trail network of about 125km across nine sites,” she said.

To view the plan or comment by January 24, visit westcycle.org.au.