YOU BEAUTY: Port Douglas mountain bike skills park breaks ground after decade of fundraising
RIDING HIGH
After nearly a decade of dedicated fundraising, the long-awaited Mountain Bike Skills Park at Port Douglas Sports Precinct begins construction this week.
The facility will cater to mountain biking enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels, offering a wide range of jump lines, tabletops, timber obstacles, and more.
With much dedication, funds were secured by the Rainforest and Reef Cycling Club's efforts, through grants, private contributions, and fundraising initiatives.
The Club collaborated with Douglas Shire Council, which provided the land, and is now ready to break ground on this exciting project.
Construction is expected to take five to six weeks, with the completed park expected to open to the public in September.
Excitement all over
Club President Rod Johnson shared his enthusiasm as the project enters the construction phase.
“This venture has been driven by the passion of local mountain biking enthusiasts who have envisioned a park where riders of all ages can practise their skills in a safe, easily accessible, and social environment,” he shared.
He mentioned that the skills park caters to kids, beginners, and experts with varying difficulty levels.
Steve Rankin, a veteran local mountain biker and former international competitor, also expressed his excitement about the facility within Port Douglas town limits.
He believes it will not only help young riders develop their mountain bike skills but also foster the overall growth of the sport in the Shire.
“Who knows what future stars could emerge from the Douglas Shire,” he said.
Douglas Shire Council Mayor Michael Kerr said the park would enhance the Port Douglas Sports Precinct.
“Mountain biking is one of the fastest growing adventure tourism opportunities in the country and Douglas is joining with other regional councils to develop a regional mountain biking strategy to encourage the growth of the sport,” he expressed.