DECEMBER 20, 2021 - RIDE WHERE OUR ANCESTORS ONCE WALKED, GIRRAMAY COUNTRY

Cardwell is one step closer to establishing itself as a world class mountain bike destination with over 90 kilometres of purpose built trails. Now complete, the feasibility project features varying trail styles, catering for a wide range of rider skill levels.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Division One Councillor Barry Barnes said this project has been truly driven by the Cardwell Community from their ambitions to establish Cardwell as a ‘ride destination’.

“There has been tireless efforts from the project control group, with strong support from locals as well as the Girramay Traditional Owners, who have worked collaboratively to engage with Council and other key stakeholders to take the project forward through the feasibility study.

“The project partnered with the Girramay People Aboriginal Corporation Registered Native Title Body Corporate with support from Girringun Aboriginal Corporation to connect culture with the future on country ride experiences. This collaboration has inspired the new project slogan ‘Ride where our ancestors once walked - Girramay country’.

“The Cardwell Tropical Mountain Bike Trail Project Feasibility Report was presented at the Council meeting on 11 November 2021.

“From the report, some of the outcomes included 26 individual trails, which consultants World Trail describe as ‘gravity epic’, including a highlight of a nine-kilometre, downhill Flowing Gravity Epic Trail.

“I would like to thank the State Government through the Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport for jointly funding the feasibility study with Council, to help bring this destination project to life,” said Councillor Barnes.

“The next step is seeking funding for the development of a business case to progress to the future stages such as detailed design and for the basis of funding future capital works.

“The feasibility project has also resulted in funding from Federal Governments - COVID-19 Relief & Recovery Fund, with the State Government for an Early Works Mountain Bike Project in Cardwell, which will feature a new pump track located adjacent to Brasenose Street and transform the old basketball court across from the Community Hall into a new car park. Construction will commence in March 2022.

“Cardwell is ideally positioned to develop into Queensland’s premier ride destination.

“The region has abundant natural attractions, proximity to domestic and international airports and is situated at the heart of the World heritage listed Hinchinbrook Island and Great Barrier Reef. This project has the potential to attract a whole new visitor market to our region,” said Councillor Barnes.

To read more on the Cardwell Tropical Mountain Bike project visit our website here www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/CardwellMTBproject

For further information please contact the Cassowary Coast Regional Council on 1300 763 903 or via email enquiries@ccrc.qld.gov.au.