Since 2006 Mountain Bike (MTB) riders, land managers and other stakeholders have met to discuss issues, opportunities and development for mountain bike riding throughout Queensland. The Qld MTB Forum has recognised that whilst the activity has grown organically, supply does not match demand; and nor does it cater for community, event, sport or tourism growth. As a group the members of the MTB Forum has realised the relevance of a coordinated approach to MTB development; and the opportunities that can be accessed through investment in key regional mountain bike developments.

On 12th May 2015, at the most recent Qld MTB Forum, the Developing Mountain Biking in Queensland: Regional Solutions report was presented to the Queensland Mountain Biking community. This document is the result of the efforts of the State Wide MTB Regional Solution and Advocacy Working Group and the Qld MTB Forum who have consulted with their networks to identify pre-eminent MTB development opportunities on the Protected Area Estate, managed by QPWS.

The aim of the Regional Solutions document is to present a selection of MTB trail development priorities in Queensland that are viable community assets and are economically and environmentally sustainable. QORF Executive Officer, Murray Stewart commented that “It is our intention to reinforce that not only can MTB trails contribute to healthy and active communities; but that well designed, constructed and supported trails also contribute to regional development and the enrichment of people’s lives as they move through nature and interact with our diverse landscapes”.

Special thanks need to be extended to Dr Donna Little, from Way to Be, who as lead author developed the report and the countless volunteer hours the working group members contributed to the analysis and development of the proposed opportunities.

For more information contact Murray Stewart.