Creswick mountain bike trail has riders pumped

Mountain bike enthusiasts will have a new trail to explore and enjoy with the first stage of the $2.9 million purpose-built Creswick trail officially opened today.

Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas opened the first stage of the Hammon Park Mountain Bike Pump Track today with riders from the local VOGA (Villages of the Old Goldfields) Cycle Club, a project which the Andrews Labor Government contributed $2.56 million.

Unlike many traditional dirt pump tracks, the Creswick Trails track is covered in bitumen for a smoother and faster riding surface for mountain bikers, skateboarders and scooter riders to enjoy, and is already being hailed by riders for its quality.

The Hammon Park pump track is one part of the Creswick Trails Project which will see the creation of a 100kilometre purpose-built mountain bike trail network, creating 30 new ongoing jobs.

When complete the Creswick Trail is expected to attract more than 80,000 annual visitors and increase the demand for accommodation, new businesses and private sector investment – representing a major boost to tourism and economic development for the greater Goldfield region.

The Creswick trail network is conveniently located within walking distance of the town centre which will add to both the local economy and visitation to the local area.

In comparison to other world class trail networks in alpine and remote areas, Creswick will be the only Australian facility of its standard within 15 minutes of a regional city and accessible directly by public transport.

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas
"This purpose-built pump track is one-of-a-kind and will attract local and interstate visitors to Creswick – that means more people getting active and visiting regional Victoria."

"The combination of a trail network that is accessible by public transport and linked to a major resort presents a truly unique opportunity that has never been delivered in Victoria before."

"The completion of the first stage of the Creswick Trails Project brings us one step closer to establishing Creswick as "the" mountain bike destination in Victoria’s Central Highlands."

Quotes attributable to Hepburn Shire Council CEO, Evan King
"The successful completion of the Pump Track at Hammon Park in Creswick creates more opportunity for recreation in the Shire and will attract visitors to the region."

"The linking of the Pump Track and trail head to mountain biking trails in the future will make Creswick a world class destination for mountain bikers."