THE Bass Coast Mountain Bike Association (BCMBA) establishment meeting was held at the Kilcunda Community Hall on Tuesday this week, June 18.
Ahead of the anticipated release of Bass Coast Shire Councils Mountain Bike, BMX and Pump Track Strategy, local mountain bike enthusiasts gathered to form an advocacy group to promote the development of mountain bike infrastructure and facilities in Bass Coast shire.
The group discussed their aspirations for MTB in Bass Coast, authorized the incorporation of the association, adopted their model rules and elected a committee of 10.
They also welcomed an inaugural membership of some 50 attendees.
Mountain bike enthusiast and member of the new committee Mick Wright said it was a fantastic turnout for a first meeting, with indications of even stronger support across the community.
“It was great turnout at short notice and an indication of the enthusiasm within the community for the development these sorts of facilities,” Mr Wright said.
“A lot of us go to other areas to ride and you look around and wonder why we haven’t got these facilities locally.
“But the formation of this community group is coming at the right time with the Bass Coast Shire Council getting close to finalising their Mountain Bike, BMX and Pump Track Strategy.
“As a group we’ve endorsed a submission to that strategy and a number of individuals have also made quite detailed submissions so there’s a lot more information there now for the council to consider.”
Mr Wright said there were a number of options for the council to consider including the development of pump tracks for use in urban areas, easily accessible micro-networks in urban fringe areas and also more sophisticated destination tracks for local and visiting riders.
“It’s a huge and developing sport that fits in perfectly with what Bass Coast already has to offer,” Mr Wright said.
“With a number of the potential sites on Parks Victoria land, Phillip Island Nature Parks land and even Regional Roads Victoria sites; being able to demonstrate strong community support, through a group like ours, can only be an asset for advocacy.”
He said the new Bass Coast Mountain Bike Association is ready to advocate for a Destination Gravity Trail Network, Micro Trail Systems spread throughout the shire and urban facilities, like pump tracks locally, some of which might be delivered in a relatively short space of time.
Some facilities would take longer.
“The purpose of the Bass Coast Mountain Bike Association (BCMBA) is to enhance, promote, and support mountain biking infrastructure throughout the Bass Coast Shire,” according to a media release.
“This includes developing sustainable, high-quality mountain bike trails and facilities, advocating for trail access, and fostering a welcoming community where mountain bikers of all ages and genders can connect with each other. BCMBA also strives to promote safe and environmentally responsible riding practices, as well as to organise and facilitate mountain bike competitions, events, social rides, and gatherings”.
More members welcome! Anyone wanting to get involved please contact BCMBA through their social media channels via Facebook: Bass Coast Mountain Bike Association or Instagram: @basscoastmtb.
