Works begin on Ocean Grove's ride centre

CONSTRUCTION works have started at the Ocean Grove District Ride Centre, which is expected to open by the middle of next year.

Located in Kingston Park, the $3.5 million facility will accommodate up to 100 riders at any time.

World Trail Unit Trust, well known in the industry as a leader in innovative mountain bike trail design and sustainable solutions, is constructing the centre for the City of Greater Geelong.

L-R: World Trail Unit founder Dylan Jeffries, committee member Rachael Thomas, committee member Megan McKnight, Cr Elise Wilkinson, Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Melinda Kennedy and committee member Julian Toscano. Photos: SUPPLIED

The long-awaited facility will boast multiple jump lines catering for beginner to advanced riders and an asphalt pump track, accessible to a range of wheeled uses including mountain bikes, BMX and scooters.

The layout and features bring together ideas and feedback raised during community consultation and by the Community Reference Group.

The ride centre’s landscape design demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting the park’s surrounding remnant landscape conservation zones and will integrate local provenance indigenous plant species.

By adopting this design approach, the project can ensure ecological resilience, enhance local Bellarine Peninsula biodiversity and celebrate long-term sustainability.

World Trail Unit Trust, well known in the industry as a leader in innovative mountain bike trail design and sustainable solutions, is constructing the centre.

Connewarre Ward councillor Elise Wilkinson recently joined Ocean Grove Bike Park Committee members Julian Toscano, Megan McKnight and Rachael Thomas to turn the first sod following a Smoking Ceremony, conducted by Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Melinda Kennedy.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said users of Kingston Park would notice a lot of activity at the site.

“We know that bike and scooter riders are gearing up to test out the Ocean Grove District Ride Centre and only have to wait until mid-next year for it to be up and running,” Mayor Kontelj said.

“We can’t wait to watch this much anticipated facility take shape and be enjoyed by the community.”

Cr Wilkinson said she was excited to see the project reach such an exciting milestone.

“Council is proud to invest $3.5 million into this industry-leading, flagship riding facility for local and visiting riders.

“The Ocean Grove District Ride Centre is driven by community demand and shaped by local voices – we thank residents and riders for ensuring this project became a reality.”