Bike track plans released

BMX riders will be jumping for joy as upgrades to a local track move one step closer to becoming a reality.

Waurn Ponds Dirt Jumps is one of three bike facilities in Greater Geelong that will receive well-deserved upgrades, catering to the increased interest in BMX and mountain biking in the region.

The City is excited to deliver the draft concept plans for these parks, and we invite the riding community to share their thoughts. Your input will help us ensure these plans will have the best outcomes for your parks and riding clubs.

Our trail designers, World Trail, are focused on making all three sites more engaging and challenging for all levels of riders and have responded to community feedback following the initial consultation process.

The Waurn Ponds proposal includes the installation of new advanced jumps with reinforced jump ramps.

More height will be added to the start mound and a timber wall ride will be placed at the end of the jump lines.

New landscaping and a new designated beginner area will make the park more inviting for riders of all skills.

Built in the early 2000s, the track at Pioneer Road currently has three jump lines for beginner, intermediate and advanced riders, all accessed from a large start mound. A second beginner line runs along the northern boundary.

The Waurn Ponds Dirt Jumps proposal joins two other bike parks in the region that will benefit from this project.

The Hill Mountain Bike Park concept proposal comprises of reinforced jump ramps and new advanced jumps for the Newtown park, as well as designated beginner and spectator areas.

These upgrades will mean more riders will get to enjoy this facility – the only dedicated mountain bike park in Greater Geelong outside of the You Yangs.

This project would also see Stead Park Dirt Jumps upgraded, with jumps moved to better utilise the available space. Intermediate and advanced features would also be added to the Corio park, including shark fin and gap jumps.

The City hosted public consultations and online surveys for each of the three upgrades in July of last year, engaging with riders of all ages to have their say.

We want to ensure that these projects have the desired outcomes so that riders have the best facilities to hone their bar spins and grinds.

The planned upgrade of the Waurn Ponds Dirt Jumps will be another win for riders in the area, following a major redevelopment of Waurn Ponds Skatepark in September 2023.

This joint City and state government funded redevelopment has provided a key recreational facility for skaters and riders in the area.

I hope that the draft BMX and mountain biking concept plans will also meet riders’ expectations and will result in a more thrilling and entertaining ride for all.

To review the plans and have your say, visit yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/GMBFR before Tuesday, March 11.

Cr Andrew Katos

Deakin Ward, City of Greater Geelong