Timboon residents and mountain bike enthusiasts are encouraged to contribute their thoughts to a design committee for the planned construction of a pump bike track, at the Power Creek Reserve.
Beach Energy, the operator of the Otway natural gas plant, has committed $25,000 to the community for the design and construction of the new facility.
The funding will be met with a further $11,000 from Corangamite Shire bringing the overall project budget to $36,000.
A pump track is a circuit of rollers, banked turns and features designed to be ridden by riders 'pumping' their arms and legs, without the need to pedal. It is enjoyed by mountain-bike enthusiasts keen to train and hone their skills without the need for 'bush-bashing'. It is also a great way for children and beginners to learn the skills required for mountain-biking.
Design committee members will be responsible for consulting with experts and coming up with the final design and budget for the track, as well as working with the reserve committee to establish its location along the Timboon-Port Campbell Road. Committee members will also be called upon to help the Power Creek Reserve committee plant new understorey growth alongside the track at a family planting and picnic day, as part of the track's construction.
The project is a priority in the Blueprint for Timboon community plan.
"Beach Energy is pleased to support the development of this new pump track, which I am sure will be a very popular facility for the Timboon community," said Beach's Community Relations Manager Blair McNaught.
"In an age where all of us (particularly the younger generation), are spending more time in front of screens, recreational opportunities such as these are more important than ever.
"This is in addition to our previous support for developing the Timboon town precinct, part of our commitment to investing in the communities in which we operate."
According to Corangamite Shire Chief Executive Andrew Mason, "It is hoped that the track coupled with the rail trail and the 12 Apostles Trail will not only give residents more outdoor activities to enjoy but will further position Timboon as a cycling/ mountain bike tourist destination, with flow-on effects for the town's businesses and economy."
If you would like to be involved in the design committee for the pump track you can register your interest at www.corangamite.vic.gov.au/Pump-Track
