Otways bike trails take another step forward

WORK will start this month on the latest project of an Otways mountain bike trail development.

State government authorities will soon kick off construction of the $500,000 Barwon Flow Trails at Forrest.

The new trails will be downhill mountain bike tracks featuring turns and jumps that allow riders to keep up speed with minimal pedalling.

Mountain biking is already a major part of Forrest’s identity, with the town hosting events such as the Otway Odyssey each year.

Stakeholders believe the current upgrade will elevate its trail opportunities to world-class status and attract riders from across Australia, boosting the local economy.

The new trails are part of a $2.3 million project Forrest Mountain Bike Revitalisation Project, co-funded by the state government and Colac Otway Shire Council.

Trails have been designed alongside Forrest mountain bikers for the build that will deliver 9.3 kilometres of new tracks and repair eight kilometres of existing trails, including making them more weather resistant.

Works also include a new trailhead, a skills park to replace an existing dirt pump track, and visitor precinct.

Government figures said the mountain bike project would deliver benefits to locals and visitors to Forrest.

“The Forrest Mountain Bike Trails will continue to gain popularity giving riders of all ages a new challenge and opportunity to sharpen their skills, while bringing more tourists to the area and creating more local jobs,” Western Victoria MP Gayle Tierney said.

“The Forrest Mountain Bike Trails showcase the natural beauty of the Otway Ranges – this project will not only attract skilled riders to the region but be a world-class asset for locals for years to come,” Regional Victoria Parliamentary Secretary Danielle Green said.