Kalateenee bike trails to get upgrade

Published on 20 February 2023

Kempsey Shire Council has received $301,600 under the NSW Government Places to Play Program for an upgrade to the Kalateenee Forest Mountain Bike Enduro Trail.

Kempsey Shire Council, the Macleay Valley Mountain Bike Club, Forestry NSW and the local community are looking to collaborate on upgrading and enhancing the Kalateenee Forest Mountain Bike Enduro Trails.

The existing trails attract a broad cross section of the community for recreational andorganized events.

The proposed project is focused on upgrading the 'volunteer-built' trails to a 'professionally-built' standard that will attract more riders of all levels to ride for fun or inorganised events.

Member for Oxley Melinda Pavey said funding from the Places to Play grant program supports councils and eligible agencies to create new outdoor spaces for those of all ages and abilities.

"I understand the value of public open spaces to the wellbeing of our communities and that’s why we’re investing in the accessible outdoor sporting facilities,” Ms Pavey said.

"The Mountain Bike Trails in Kalateenee State Forest, just outside of Kempsey, are available for public and visitors to use free of charge.

"The funding will help the tracks to be maintained to a high standard and continue to enable people of all levels of ability to access and use".

Kempsey Shire Council is committed to projects that enhance the socio-economic status and wellbeing of our community through providing areas that community can utilise free of charge for physical fitness.

Kempsey Shire Council also see this project as an economic driver for the local community, tourism and service providers, who will see flow on effects from the investment in enhanced trails.

The Macleay Valley Mountain Bikers club incorporated in 2018 and has grown to over 60 financial members. It manages and maintains the mountain bike trails within the Kalateenee State Forest, under a permit provided by Forestry Corporation of NSW.

The mountain bike trails have existed since 2010, with over30km’s of trails freely available for all levels of rider ability. The Club strives to deliver trials to a national, recognisable standard which meets the requirements of the International Mountain Bike Association therefore enhancing safety and enjoyment for riders of all levels, elevating social, health and tourism outcomes.

Improved trails will promote, encourage anddevelop the sport of mountain biking for people of all abilities, through regular organisedrides, events, and skills workshops.

The project will upgrade existing trails using light machinery and manual labour to move soil and work around the natural terrain. The upgraded trails will be more resilient and able tomanage weather events and stay open for more riding days. They will also attract more events, due to the challenge they present to advanced riders.