Warburton Bike Park in Victoria's Yarra Ranges has taken its place as one of the premier mountain bike parks in Australia with Stage 1 of the project now officially open.
The trails are being delivered in two stages, leveraging the natural beauty of Warburton's forested hills and valleys to create a challenging, yet scenic ride for bikers of all skills levels.
Stage 1 of the project is now open to riders with over 70kms of new trails and bridges, surpassing the half-way point of the fully funded 125km Southern Network.
This stage of the project has been delivered by the Yarra Ranges Council with funding of $4.3 million from the Australian Government and $3 million from the Victorian Government alongside a $9.6 million investment from Council.
In 2025, the Albanese Government also committed an additional $3 million to support the delivery of Stage 2 of the project.
On completion of both stages, the Warburton Mountain Bike Park will be eligible for International Mountain Bike Association Gold Level Ride Centre status, positioning the town as an internationally significant mountain biking destination.
The project is expected to attract economically sustainable visitation and adventure tourism to the region, as well as drawing in weekend trail riders from nearby Melbourne.
Yarra Ranges Council has worked closely with DEECA, Parks Victoria, Melbourne Water and emergency services organisations to deliver the Southern Network in the Yarra State Forest, with the network of 125kms on track to be delivered by 2027.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
"This is such an exciting and unique project, and one that I'm sure will be a huge drawcard for trail riders seeking nature and adventure.
"The Yarra Ranges is known for its forests, food, villages and iconic landscapes. The Warburton Bike Park is yet another reason for visitors to come and stay in this scenic part of the country."
Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts Jaclyn Symes:
"This project is transforming Warburton into a world-class mountain bike hub - the visitors who come here to ride will stay to eat, shop and explore everything the region has to offer."
"Every rider who comes through Warburton brings opportunity for local cafés, hotels and tourism operators - that's real and sustainable economic growth for the community."
Quotes attributable to Mayor of Yarra Ranges Council Cr Richard Higgins:
"The Warburton Bike Park has been a highly anticipated project in the region for more than a decade, and we're incredibly excited to officially open it.
"This project will get more people active, bring visitors to the region, and help support our local economy. I know plenty of locals and visitors are looking forward to exploring this incredible new trail network."
Quotes attributable to Senator for Victoria Lisa Darmanin:
"Local infrastructure initiatives like Warburton Bike Park enhance the liveability and economic and tourism options of the region, and offer new health and wellbeing opportunities to the whole community.
"It's exciting to see this world-class facility open in the Upper Yarra Region. I have no doubt it will benefit this community well into the future."
