Community infrastructure funding delivers economic and community benefits in Glenorchy, Tasmania

Tasmania’s Wellington Mountain Bike Park is now firmly established as one of Australia’s leading mountain bike facilities.

This new status comes as a result of funding by the Australian Government’s Community Infrastructure Program (CIP).

Mayor Ald Adriana Taylor of Glenorchy City Council, situated between Tasmania’s Mount Wellington and Derwent River, outlines how the $55,000 CIP funding has stimulated the local economy.

“The design and construction of these new trails is a great source of economic stimulus for the local area, employing five people by engaging local consultants Dirt Art, who specialise in mountain bike jumps and trails,” said Mayor Taylor.

The construction of a new dirt jump area and pump track, beginner cross-country loop, dual slalom track and downhill jump trail now provides the community with an exceptional recreation facility, catering for all styles and skill levels from novices to the ‘extreme’ elite.

Pre-existing mountain bike facilities in the area have resulted in a positive rise in accommodation, guiding, hire and retail sales, and it is expected that these new facilities will further increase economic activity.

“The new trails funded by the Australian Government’s Community Infrastructure Program are an excellent example of how mountain biking can be effectively provided for.

“These trails have increased community satisfaction, along with group and individual participation while adding to the local economy,” said Mayor Taylor.

The new trails give access to the rest of Wellington Park, extending through three local government areas and to other mountain bike single track trails, which will encourage healthier activities for Glenorchy, Hobart and southern Tasmania as a whole.

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