This week 300 of the best Queensland regional mountain bikers are competing in the second annual Gravitate event at Smithfield.

Rob Giason, CEO of Tourism Tropical North Queensland, said mountain biking presents great economic opportunities to the region.

“Positioning Tropical North Queensland as a world class mountain bike destination has been identified in the TNQ Regional Economic plan," he said. 

"We have the world’s only rainforest mountain bike trails and some of the world’s most highly regarded trail designers. The economic value of mountain biking has been well established in Canada, New Zealand, Scotland and Wales as well as the ACT and South Australia.

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"There is huge potential for further growth of the sport in Tropical North Queensland to attract significant numbers of competitors and spectators to the region and build sustainable visitor expenditure.”

Commencing yesterday and running through until 30 September, there will be social rides, competitive events and "chill out days".

"We encourage spectators to come out to Smithfield for Gravitate, and to participate in the social tour of Smithy Trails on Sunday 30 September," said Cairns Mountain Bike Club President Frank Falappi.   

The full Gravitate program is online at www.cairnsmtb.com.