Western Australia to have world-class mountain bike trail

15/12/01
The State Government today announced the development of the Munda Biddi Trail - an 850km-bike trail from Mundaring to Albany in the State's South-West.
Launching the trail on behalf of Environment and Heritage Minister Dr Judy Edwards, local Roleystone MLA Martin Whitely said it would be a significant addition to the State's world-renowned nature-based tourism attractions.
"Western Australia is fast becoming known world-wide for its innovative nature-based tourism projects that successfully integrate tourism and recreation with conservation," Mr Whitely said.
"From the internationally acclaimed Tree Top Walk to the Bibbulmun Track, we are leading the world in providing opportunities for people to interact with nature.
"The Munda Biddi Bike Trail will strengthen this and will become a significant addition to the tourism and nature-based industry in the South-West and help to increase awareness and opportunity to experience the State's unique natural and indigenous cultural values."
It is anticipated that trail users will generate significant economic benefits and jobs to the South-West forest region.
Mr Whitely said the trail was proposed to pass through some of the South-West's most scenic sites, offering a range of different cycling experiences.
"Touring cyclists who want to have a total 'bush' touring experience will be happy with the wide forest tracks and gentle slopes, which will make carrying panniers relatively easy, and the towns along the way enabling them to choose from a variety of meals and accommodation services," he said.
"Experienced and competitive cyclists will enjoy the more challenging sections and the easy access to a range of single-track circuits.
"Recreational cyclists will also enjoy peaceful cycles along relatively flat terrain, such as the many old railway alignments the trail utilises."
Cycle-friendly trail guides will be produced to make each journey easy to plan and navigate. These guides will have detailed maps and trail notes describing the trail terrain, surface types and facilities.
Mr Whitely said the Munda Biddi Trail was the result of a significant combined effort between Government, the private sector and the community.
The Munda Biddi Trail Foundation is working with the Department of Conservation and Land Management and other land managers to develop, manage, market and maintain the Munda Biddi Trail.
The development of the trail is proposed to occur in three stages over the next three years, with stage one being Mundaring to Collie, stage two Collie to Pemberton and stage three Pemberton to Albany.
Stage one of the trail is due for completion in October next year, with the whole trail proposed to be completed by October 2003. The first leg to Dwellingup of the trail will be open in time for State Trails Day in April 2002.
The first section was primarily funded by Alcoa Australia, WA Lotteries Commission, the Department of Conservation and Land Management and local government.
Minister's office: 9220 5050