Bellarine cyclists are set to be quite literally jumping for joy as the Ocean Grove District Ride Centre is one step closer to becoming a reality.
Construction on the site at Kingston Park is now officially underway and I was thrilled to join this week’s sod turning marking the commencement of works on this exciting new sports infrastructure.
World Trail Unit Trust has been entrusted with building the $2.98 million facility after an open tender process.
The company was recommended as the preferred tenderer after achieving the highest overall score and providing best value for money for the bulk earthworks, in-ground hydraulics, civil works, minor building construction and landscaping.
What is perhaps most exciting about this project is how much our community has shaped the final outcome.
The layout and features reflect the feedback raised throughout the community consultation process and our region’s riders have had their say in what matters most to them.
This is more than just a track, it’s a dedicated hub for action sports enthusiasts. The centre promises to be a huge attraction for riders on the Bellarine and visitors from afar.
It will provide a safe, thrilling, and professionally built environment for everyone to push their limits and connect with fellow riders.
Once complete, the ride centre will be able to accommodate about 100 riders at a time, supporting the growth of mountain biking and BMX riding in Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads.
Riders of all abilities will have plenty of features to challenge their skills with a range of mountain bike jumps including table tops, hip jumps and wall rides.
There will be six lines comprising a 60 metre return and five dirt jump lines from 75 to 200 metres long, catering to everyone from beginners to the most hardcore riders in the region.
The centre will also boast a central landscaped space for spectators to gather for events and competitions, as well as start mound shelters, seating and a bike rack.
Based on your comments, the design will retain open space for passive use so that non-riders can also make the most of the surrounding natural parkland.
This centre is a direct result of advocacy from young local riders, particularly those in Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads, who approached Council wanting more facilities like this to let loose on the pedals. We sincerely thank them for their passion and commitment.
We’re also very proud of the Community Reference Group’s work that has shaped these plans.
At the City, we recognise the need for more ride facilities across our municipality, and the Ocean Grove District Ride Centre joins three other exciting projects that will benefit future generations of riders in Geelong.
This project is an addition to our planned staged refresh of The Hill Mountain Bike Park in Newtown, Corio’s Stead Park Dirt Jumps and the Waurn Ponds Dirt Jumps.
Once these projects are complete, riders from across the region will be spoiled for choice when it comes to where they want to hone their skills on the track.
From kids learning to ride to seasoned pros, this new ride facility will have something for everyone.
