Council Seeks Feedback on Proposed New Off-Road Bike Track

Published on 07 August 2024

Goondiwindi Regional Council is excited to propose the construction of a new off-road bike track on council land between Lamberth Rd and Cunningham Highway.

Council encourages community feedback on the proposed site by the close of business on August 23, 2024. Responses can be submitted by emailing mail@grc.qld.gov.au or by completing an online survey - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MNH92H8.

Councillor Jason Watts, portfolio holder for Transport, Roads, and Youth, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "We are thrilled to present a possible solution for a much-needed community asset. Over the years, we have explored various sites in Goondiwindi for an off-road bike track, each presenting unique challenges or objections/concerns from nearby residents.

“This newly proposed location, however, aligns with the existing bikeway network, offers ease of access for first responders, and the existing natural tree line will serve as a barrier, limiting the project's impact on nearby residents and preserving the community's visual appeal.

"To meet community expectations for a prompt solution and to continue to nurture the creativity of our youth, the site, if supported by the community, will allow users, to a degree, to design their own track. Council will manage the site and provide users with signage explaining the site rules and terms of use. For example, the installation of star pickets will not be permitted and jump heights will be limited.

“We will construct a raised starting ramp, create a rough track and provide materials to support users design their own off-road bike track. Council intends for the new track to have capacity to suit bicycle riders of various ages and abilities.

"As residents can appreciate, the logistics of selecting the site, finalising the rules, ordering signage, and scheduling the works amongst existing commitments can take a little time, but Council is committed to getting it operational as soon as we can.”

“As a Council, we are committed to finding a suitable alternative to address the increase in unauthorised bike jumps and ramps constructed on Council land. It is Council’s intention to remove these existing, or any new, unauthorised jumps once the new site is operational. The proposed off-road bike track aims to reduce the legal liability risk to ratepayers, and the number of complaints received by Council.

Council recognises that an off-road bike track can support healthy lifestyles, enhance children's creativity, and provide a safer and more controlled space for young people to ride," Cr. Watts added.

Council encourages all interested residents to provide feedback, whether in favour or identifying concerns. Community input is integral to ensuring this project meets the needs and expectations of Goondiwindi's residents.