Minister for Territory and Municipal Services, Shane Rattenbury, has officially opened the newly upgraded recreational trails at Majura Pines with a mountain bike ride through the forest.
“Majura Pines is a fantastic facility available to the whole community for a range of purposes including mountain bike riding, horse riding, bush walking, orienteering and running,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“Following an extensive consultation process which received over 680 comments about how people would like to see Majura Pines used, the ACT Parks and Conservation Service worked together with volunteers from the Majura Pines Trail Alliance, and specialist trail building contractor Jindabyne Landscaping to create these trails.
“Volunteers donated over 740 hours of their time to contribute to the design and construct of 16 kilometres of trails through the trees.
“After riding these trails today it was clear that they have been well informed and designed by passionate riders who know what elements you need for a great mountain bike trail.
“Canberra’s experienced mountain biking community and beginners alike will benefit from the upgrade of some of the oldest and most famous mountain bike trails in Canberra with plenty of opportunities for skill progression.
“The gentle slopes of the area east of the Majura Parkway are suitable for children and beginners while there are intermediate and advanced trails on the western side, including new downhill bike trails.
“The new dirt jump area caters for riders new to jumping through to the advanced riders with some challenging and exciting obstacles.
“The tracks have also been optimised for equestrian activities with the use of wide open vehicle tracks through the pine trees which provide a pleasant riding experience.
“Walkers, runners and orienteers can utilise the vehicle tracks, cross-country mountain bike trails or go cross country between the trees.
“This is a great example of government working constructively with user groups and volunteers to achieve fantastic and sustainable outcomes, and an approach I look forward to taking again in coming weeks as we look to develop a territory wide strategy for mountain biking.
“The improvements to this popular recreation area are one of many projects and activities the ACT Government has been involved with as part of the Healthy Weight initiative to encourage people to get outside and maintain a healthy lifestyle,” Mr Rattenbury said.
The community is invited to join the Majura Pines Trail Alliance for regular working groups. More information in getting involved in the maintenance of the area is available at www.majurapines.org and www.facebook.com/majurapines
Majura Pines opening – photo thanks to MLA Shane Rattenbury
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