New bike tourism experiences to boost Queensland's economy

Overview

Action 4.6: Support development of bicycle tourism experiences in Queensland.

Lead agency: Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport

Status: Complete

Achievements

We have supported and engaged with local governments and community groups to progress the development of bicycle tourism experiences, including mountain biking trails networks in Cardwell and Mackay regions, and walking and mountain biking trails in Tropical North Queensland.

Cardwell Tropical Mountain Bike Trails Network

We matched Cassowary Coast Regional Council's $50,000 contribution to conduct a feasibility study and concept design for a mountain bike trails network around Cardwell in 2021. The study findings informed the location and final design of a $491,000 early works project delivered through the Australian Government COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Fund. The Cardwell Mountain Bike Trail Network Stage 1 – Early Works project included a new trailhead, pump track, bike wash, car parking and signage to position Cardwell as a bike-friendly destination.

The council opened the Cardwell mountain bike pump track in June 2022. Engagement is occurring with Girramay Aboriginal Corporation and Girragun Aboriginal Corporation to support delivery of the project.

Wangetti Trail

We are supporting delivery of the $47.1 million, 91km Wangetti Trail—Queensland's very first purposely designed eco-tourism shared use trail in a national park. Our $39.1 million funding contribution to construct the trail complements the Australian Government's $8 million contribution through the National Tourism Icons Program.

In 2021, we delivered the first stage of the project—the $2.5 million Mowbray River Pedestrian Bridge and viewing platform. In 2022, we commenced works to deliver a new carpark and safety upgrades to the Captain Cook Highway, and we awarded the contract for designing and constructing the 33km Wangetti South section of the trail.

The construction and operation of the Wangetti Trail will add another mountain bike experience in the Cairns region.

Pioneer Valley Mountain Bike Trail

Supported by a $500,000 Queensland Government election commitment, Mackay Regional Council has completed the assessment and design of the Pioneer Valley Mountain Bike Trail. Once constructed, this project will develop a world-class network of mountain bike trails that will help grow the local tourism economy in Finch Hatton, Eungella and the broader Mackay region.

Next steps

We will continue to deliver these projects and support other potential future projects to help boost Queensland's economy through bicycle tourism development.

We will continue to support these and other potential future projects to help boost Queensland's economy through bicycle tourism development.