Mountain biking tourism boost for Launceston

Launceston's appeal as a mountain biking venue has been boosted with two tracks upgraded at the Trevallyn and Kate Reed Nature Recreation Areas.

The Launceston Mountain Bike Club received a grant of almost $300,000 from Sport and Recreation Tasmania's Trails and Bikeways Grant Program.

Tasmanian Minister for Environment, Parks and Heritage, Brian Wightman explained that the new facilities have been enthusiastically received, stating "these upgrades provide great opportunities for riders to enjoy what they love doing, in a beautiful natural setting.

"The Launceston Mountain Bike Club's worked closely with Parks and Wildlife on regular working bees over the last couple of years.

"This is a great example of a community partnership, involving volunteers from the Launceston Mountain Bike Club, Conservation Volunteers Australia, International Student Volunteers and the broader community.

"The upgrades improved the track for all users, while also protecting the reserves natural value."

Tasmanian Sport and Recreation Minister Michelle O'Byrne added that the track networks will be great for supporting local participation and encouraging healthy, active communities.

Minister O'Byrne stated "this Government has a clear policy framework that focusses on jobs, people and opportunity - projects like this one are evidence of our commitment to that agenda.

"We are reducing inequality and supporting healthy living by investing in preventative health, here in Launceston and throughout the State.

"The quality of the tracks and the riding experience is already becoming widely known and has the potential to encourage interstate and overseas visitors to visit Launceston and other mountain bike attractions around the State."

The track strategy has rationalised track systems - ensuring tracks in each reserve are environmentally sustainable, and activities are consistent with reserve management objectives.

A multi-use track network has been developed, for a range of different users.

The Kate Reed track network is expected to be officially opened in June, with the upgraded Trevallyn tracks to be officially opened in spring this year.

Image courtesy of the Launceston Mountain Bike Club.