- Cairns-based World Trail has been appointed as the successful trail designer for the $15.5 million expansion of the Smithfield Mountain Bike Park in the Smithfield Conservation Park near Cairns.
- Another Cairns business, Contour Works, will partner on the project, showcasing the region's homegrown talent on the global stage.
- The expanded Smithfield Mountain Bike Park is set to open in late 2028.
- The Crisafulli Government's Destination 2045 plan is delivering world-leading outdoor and nature-based experiences.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy and a boost for local jobs and skills, appointing Cairns-based trail building and project management experts, World Trail, to design the $15.5 million expansion of the Smithfield Mountain Bike Park.
Another Cairns-based business, Contour Works, will partner on the project, showcasing the region's homegrown talent on the global stage.
The Crisafulli Government's Destination 2045 plan is delivering world-leading outdoor and nature-based experiences, to reinforce the State as a premier tourism destination.
The major expansion will increase the trail network from 30 kilometres to an impressive 85 kilometres, including enhancements to trail head facilities, signage and skills park.
The trails weave through breathtaking rainforest terrain, offering everything from easy loops to challenging expert runs – all with sweeping views over the Great Barrier Reef.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the project would cement Cairns' reputation as a global trail riding destination.
"World Trail and Contour Works are not only renowned for their work at Smithfield but are also recognised worldwide for delivering world-class mountain bike networks," Mr Powell said.
"This expansion will elevate Smithfield to new heights, attracting riders from around the globe and delivering significant tourism and economic benefits to the region.
"The selection panel for the trail designer included a representative from the Cairns Mountain Bike Club, ensuring we are working in partnership with key stakeholders moving forward together.
"The project is a key '45 by 45' ecotourism initiative under our Destination 2045 tourism plan that will deliver world-leading outdoor and nature-based experiences and reinforce the state's reputation as a premier ecotourism destination."
Assistant Tourism Minister, and Member for Barron River, Bree James MP said it was great to see local expertise leading the way on this exciting project.
"Contracting World Trail and Contour Works, two outstanding far north Queensland trail specialists, means we're drawing on the best in the business to design these new mountain bike trails," Ms James said.
"These companies know our landscape, our riders, and our tourism potential and their work will help ensure the Smithfield Conservation Park extensions are not only world-class in design, but also sustainable and sensitive to the environment.
"This is a great example of how we can invest in local capability to deliver high-quality infrastructure that benefits both the community and the economy."
World Trail Director Glen Jacobs said sustainability sat at the heart of the company's trail building philosophy.
"Our mission is to create sustainable, innovative mountain bike trail solutions that respect the environment and strengthen local communities.
"We're passionate about connecting people and places through trails that are exhilarating to ride and gentle on the land," Mr Jacobs said.
The new trail network will be built with a strong focus on environmental protection, ensuring Smithfield's unique rainforest landscape is preserved while growing the sport and its economic contribution to the region.
The Cairns Mountain Bike Club and other key stakeholders continue to be involved in the planning and development process to ensure the best outcome.
While the expanded trail network is set to open in late 2028, areas in the conservation park are already open to mountain bike riders, with further information available here .
