A lot of the work we do at Bicycle NSW involves an eye for detail. We’re constantly reading new documents and proposals that inspire us to write submissions and coordinate campaigns to make NSW better for bike riding. As a Member-funded organisation, we’re able to employ full-time staff to ensure that nothing is missed. And when we come across a story of cycling infrastructure success in NSW, it always motivates us to keep doing more!
In the last month, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service has published two game changing plans for mountain biking.
Two exciting plans for mountain biking across regional NSW
The first relates to Currys Gap State Conservation Area, 5km outside Tenterfield. Now a new network of cycling tracks will be constructed in the existing ‘recreation zone’.
The second is in Jindalee National Park, located approximately 10 km north of the township of Cootamundra. Here, 25km of cycling tracks have been formalised for use within the smaller eastern portion of the park.
Both plans reflect the importance of cycling for accessing and enjoying our country’s national parks. They recognise all the benefits that the sport can provide for both physical and mental health, as well as gaining an awareness, respect and understanding of the natural environment.
We hope that these developments can be seen as an opportunity to give local communities a boost because they draw visitors, create jobs, and support tourism.
Alongside these two plans for cycling infrastructure, Bicycle NSW were also very excited to see the official opening of the Illawarra Escarpment Mountain Bike Project, 20km of trails for all abilities near Mount Kembla and Balgownie.
Fantastic views to the ocean from Mount Kembla. The Illawarra Escarpment Mountain Bike Project has created 20km of trial for all abilities (Image: nationalparks.nsw.gov)
Currys Gap State Conservation Area
Currently, cycling is permitted on the network of management trails known as ‘the park’. A recent amendment to the plan of management now allows the construction of dedicated mountain-bike singletrack trails.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) would build, maintain, and manage these new trails, with the option for partner organisations to take on maintenance in the future. Partnerships with local cycling groups and volunteers could also support track upkeep and foster advocacy for protecting and conserving the park.
The location of the Recreation Zone in Currys Gap Conservation Area just outside Tenterfield (Image: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service )
It’s important to note that any new cycling infrastructure must undergo an environmental impact assessment. Each proposal must show it will not harm the park’s natural or cultural heritage—such as threatened species, ecosystem health, or Aboriginal sites.
To read more details, head to the Currys Gap State Conservation Area plan of management.
Jindalee National Park, Cootamundra
The Jindalee National Park, is a part of the traditional Country of the Wiradjuri People, and sits in the South Western Slopes bioregion, right in the middle of NSW’s productive sheep-wheat belt.
Since the initial creation of the trail network an environmental impact assessment has been undertaken. A series of upgrades were then done, and approximately 25 km of tracks have now been formalised within the park’s eastern side. The decision shows the extent to which cycling is valued for visitor use and enjoyment.
A section of cycling track in Jindalee National Park. (Image: Boen Ferguson/DCCEEW)
There’s a few strategies that are at the heart of this vision:
- Permit cycling on cycling tracks by implementing track head and individual track signage across the network.
- Designate cycling tracks as preferred-use, with tracks designated one-way as appropriate.
- Monitor visitor use and manage access and visitor facilities to ensure that park values are maintained.
- Engage with local mountain biking stakeholder groups to assist in the planning and management of cycling tracks in the park.
- Maintain the track network within the limits outlined in the plan of management.
As the NPWS Cycling strategy lays out, NPWS staff will work with local mountain biking groups to strengthen cyclist stewardship of the park. Programs may be established to engage volunteers in the maintenance of cycling experiences and re-open some of the closed tracks.
It is important to realise that all organised group events, such as club rides, require consent irrespective of group size.
To read more details, head to the Jindalee National Park plan of management.
Where else to ride
We’re always trying to provide a variety of resources for the Bicycle NSW community. For example, our Where to Ride page is a good place to start for exploring a range of information, from maps of where to ride in NSW and regional adventures, to going interstate, further afield and cycling with your children.
For mountain biking enthusiasts, we’ve also put together another helpful resource about mountain bike trails near Sydney.
Happy pedalling!
