A group of cycling enthusiasts is pushing for a mountain bike park to be built in the Macedon Ranges.
A steering group, including members of the Wombat Mountain Bike Club and the Gisborne and Surrounds Mountain Bike Club, has been set up to examine the potential of creating a park which would connect existing trails as well as creating new ones.
The group is also looking at funding sources and land access opportunities
Macedon Ranges Mountain Bike Park spokesman Simon Spencer said the park would “leverage” the existing network of mountain tracks throughout the Mount Macedon, Mount Towrong and Wombat State Forest region.
He said the park would be styled on similar mountain bike initiatives including at Whistler in Canada, Rotorua in New Zealand and Derby in Tasmania.
Group member and Wilkinson’s Wheels founder Phil Wilkinson said the Macedon Ranges had the potential to become an international hub for mountain bike riding.
He said a bike park could have economic, health and community benefits.
“A mountain bike park has far reaching social outcomes, including contributing to mental health and wellbeing, environment and economic sustainability, and building the resilience of local communities,” he said.
“This region is uniquely positioned for mountain biking, with outstanding access to potential train heads via V/Line rail track from Gisborne, Macedon and Woodend.”
The group’s push follows Macedon Ranges council recent consultation for a shared trails feasibility study, which aimed to increase cycling and walking in the municipality.
The group is inviting residents to have their say on where a mountain bike park should be located and share their ideas for the park.
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