Off-road trail to lure eco-tourists

9/11/06
Western Australia's first overnight off-road cycling trail was officially opened by Environment Minister Mark McGowan today.
Mr McGowan said the Waterous Trail was part of the development of the long-distance Munda Biddi cycle trail, which would provide a continuous track for cyclists from Mundaring to Albany once completed.
"This new 60km trail starts at Lake Navarino Forest Resort and travels over the Waroona Dam wall through State forest, before crossing over the Samson Brook and passing through former mining areas that have been rehabilitated," he said.
"Using the Munda Biddi, it passes Bidjar Ngoulin campsite in the Lane Poole Reserve as an overnight stop and then onto Nanga where it diverts from the Munda Biddi Trail back to Lake Navarino."
Collie Wellington MLA Mick Murray, who joined the Minister at the opening, said the new trail would bring more tourists into the area, creating jobs and opportunities for locals.
"The Waterous Trail is an exciting new development for the region, offering an eco-tourism experience with free quality facilities," Mr Murray said.
"It is the first of the overnight loops to be developed and uses existing forest tracks with some small sections of constructed trail.
"It is of an easy grade that is ideal for families, beginner cyclists and those wanting to experience the bush at a leisurely pace.
"This is a fantastic investment in the local region and will help people gain a greater appreciation for our beautiful environment."
The Minister said the Waterous Trail was built under a partnership between the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) and a number of other State Government departments, local governments, business, industry and the community.
"The Water Corporation was a major partner and its sponsorship allowed a bridge over the Samson Brook to be constructed," he said.
"Another major partner was Alcoa Australia who provided funding for the trail through its former Department of Conservation and Land Management (CALM) and ALCOA Forest Enhancement (CAFE) grants program.
"One of the most valuable in-kind contributions to date has been by the Department of Corrective Services under an interdepartmental Memorandum of Understanding with DEC.
"The Karnet Prison and Bunbury Prison field-based crews have been instrumental in the development of the trail, contributing an estimated $100,000 of in-kind support in trail construction."
Minister's office: 9222 9111