Over the last six-weeks, dirt jumps have risen out of the earth at Citation Reserve in Mount Martha!
Through our dirt jumps pilot program, we brought together a group of keen young local riders and experienced trail educators from Trailscapes to get creative and build bike jumps, table tops, gap jumps, whale tails and berms – it's all happening!
We had over 60 kids aged between 10 and 17 taking part in the program, which was a huge success!
The trail educators have been mentoring and educating our team of young builders on how to safely construct the jumps, making sure the natural environment is protected and all the considerations agreed on by Council are met.
We're encouraging these riders to continue to look after the site and enjoy the jumps they worked hard to build.
Weekly site inspections will be undertaken by the Shire to ensure the dirt jumps are still safe.
What are the next steps?
The trial will now be reviewed. The results will inform the final draft of our Recreational Facilities for Mountain Bike and BMX Strategy, which guides how the Shire will manage community-built dirt jumps into the future.
It is anticipated the draft Strategy will go to Council to consider for adoption in mid-2023.
Front Row (L-R): Cr O'Connor, Mayor Holland, Melissa Ward (Cycling Australia), Cr Mar and local biking enthusiasts Jake, Archie, Jack, Kody, Kyran, Jordyn, Robin and Lewis.
Back Row (L-R): Shire representatives Katanya Barlow, Chloe Donazzan, Jayne Robinson, Patrick Healy, Mark Stahel and Eddie.
Quotes attributable to Mayor and Briars Ward Councillor Steve Holland:
"Mountain Bike and BMX sports are important to our community and this initiative has given our young people an outlet for their energy and creativity. It's been great to see the kids in action and following the success of this trial I look forward to expanding the initiative to other areas in our municipality."
Quote attributable to Briars Ward Councillor Anthony Marsh:
"We hope this grassroots pilot program was a great experience for our young biking enthusiasts and that this is a positive step forward for mountain biking and BMX riding on the Peninsula."
Quote attributable to Briars Ward Councillor Despi O'Connor:
"It's been wonderful seeing local community members coming together to embrace their passion for bike sports and dirt jump making. This trial has been a huge success and a great experience for our young people."
