State Support for Mountain Biking Business Case

Tableland Regional Council’s (TRC) ongoing commitment and advocacy for mountain biking in the region has received $75,000 support from the Queensland Government.

‘Last year we developed a concept plan for stage two of the Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park (AFMBP).

‘The plan highlights increasing the trail network to more than 100km.

‘Earlier this year the Honourable Michael Healy, Minister for Tourism Industry Development, announced funding for the business case for this second stage,’ said Mayor Rod Marti said.

‘The business case is the next step in the expansion and development of the AFMBP and it will provide an in-depth analysis of stage two including the evaluation of the project’s viability across socio-economic, financial and sustainability factors.

‘The document will include a detailed staged implementation plan, and will be the basis from which future investment options will be considered.

‘A project control group will provide oversight on the delivery of the business case and include representatives from TRC, Queensland Government, Tableland Yidinji Aboriginal Corporation and Tableland Cycle Sports.

‘Atherton meets all the criteria for a mountain biking town and this project will further cement the area as a destination of choice for mountain bike enthusiasts.

‘We really appreciate the State’s recognition of the potential of mountain biking in the Tablelands Region, and for supporting our endeavours to grow and develop the AFMBP,’ said Mayor Marti.

Minister Healy recognised the love Queenslanders have for bushwalking and mountain biking.

‘More than 100,000 Queenslanders are regularly mountain biking, double the number since 2016, while 424,000 Queenslanders like to participate in bush walking.

‘We are working collaboratively to develop a network of great trails and tracks across the state where people can get out and get active in our beautiful rainforests, mountains, beaches and bush.

‘These tracks and trails like the Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park are exceptional drawcards for visitors.

‘We want our network to be at the forefront of international ecotourism.

‘We plan to preserve our natural wonders, while at the same time offering immersive experiences in the unique ecological diversity of Queensland,’ said Minister Healy.

The Queensland Government provided $75,000 to Tablelands Regional Council to Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park Stage 2 Business Case to enable Queenslanders to participate in sport and recreation activities.