Have your say for mountain bike strategy
Date published: 29 July 2020
Mountain biking enthusiasts and nature lovers are being asked for their input as the city plans for dedicated mountain bike trails across the Townsville region.
The Mountain Bike Strategy Survey is the first stage in preparing a strategy that would transform the sport into a key feature of the city and way of exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Acting Mayor Mark Molachino said the Survey will inform the 10-year strategy that is expected to be finalised later this year.
“One of the top factors identified in Council’s Liveability Study conducted last year was the access to the natural environment, and mountain biking is the perfect activity to achieve that.
“The Mountain Bike Survey will inform our 10-year strategy into trail development across the region while making the sport sustainable and accessible.
“Once this survey is closed, we will develop the draft strategy and then ask residents to provide feedback so we can ensure that this is a community-led initiative.”
Sports and Recreation Committee chairperson Maurie Soars said mountain biking has both physical and mental health benefits for participants.
“Mountain biking is a fast-growing sport that is quite popular in Townsville thanks to our fantastic natural environments, beautiful weather and the accessibility to trails,” Cr Soars said.
“Research has linked the sport to not only physical health benefits that are inherent with any exercise, but there is evidence that suggests mountain biking can also play a role in improving mental health and reducing stress levels thanks to the proximity to the natural environment.
“We’re also very lucky to have an already established mountain biking group in Rockwheelers who do a lot of work to build and maintain the trails across the city.
“It makes sense to see how we can cater to the sport and improve the experience for those who want to get involved and participate, so I would urge anyone interested to have their say on the survey.”
Townsville City Council’s Mountain Bike Strategy Survey is live on Have Your Say now and closes on 19 August 2020.
To complete the Mountain Biking Strategy survey, visit Townsville Mountain Bike Strategy.
