The Nationals WA are committed to establishing world class mountain bike trails, hubs and events in regional Western Australia if re-elected on March 11.
Under the plan, a $24 million Regional Mountain Bike Trails and Events Fund would be funded through Royalties for Regions to support planning and delivery of new and improved trails across regional areas.
Candidate for Roe Peter Rundle said the fund would boost the State’s existing trail network and assist mountain biking organisations grow participation in the sport by making it more accessible and appealing to the tourism market.
“More than 120,000 mountain bikes are sold each year in WA, with almost 20 per cent of the population owning one,” he said.
“We are committed to developing the mountain bike sector in both the competitive and recreational setting to maximise the economic, tourism, health and social benefits it offers.”
Mr Rundle said the Western Australian Mountain Bike Strategy 2015-20 recognised the advantages the sport can deliver but demand for mountain biking experiences in WA was currently outstripping supply.
More than 50 competitive mountain biking events take place in WA each year and there are more than 30 recognised trails.
However, with the majority located in the south-west corner of the State, The Nationals are keen to see an expansion of eco-sensitive trails in the north and events to drive participation and trail use.
“The South West and Peel regions are well positioned to capture the benefits our policy can bring to mountain biking and we want to see that expanded to the Wheatbelt, Goldfields, Mid West, Pilbara and Kimberley,” Mr Rundle said.
“Bolstering our regions’ appeal as mountain biking destinations for local, domestic and international tourists requires a strong commitment.”
“Through this $24 million plan we will be able to grow the foundations of participation, competition and variety by creating mountain biking hubs and tourism opportunities.”
For more information on this policy visit www.nationalswa.com/policies
For media enquiries contact Peter Rundle on 0418 959 810 or email Peter.Rundle@nationalswa.com
