| Council to develop strategic plan for Forrest mountain bike trails
Colac Otway Shire Council will lead the development of a strategic plan for the Forrest mountain bike trails.
More than 22,000 riders use the 66-kilometre network of trails in the Forrest area annually.
Forrest has undergone a social and economic transformation since 2007 when the trail network was completed.
Mayor Brian Crook said there was an increasing focus on tourism activities and the Great Otway National Park as logging and agricultural activities reduced in the area.
The trails host several major cycling events including the Forrest Festival, which includes a mountain bike event, and the Otway Odyssey, which is considered to be one of the most gruelling one-day mountain bike events in the world.
Councillor Stuart Hart will represent residents and ratepayers on a steering group which will develop the strategic plan for the Forrest mountain bike trails.
Other representatives on the committee include Council staff, Department of Sustainability and Environment staff, community, tourism and mountain biking representatives.
Cr Crook said the steering group would work closely with DSE, which was the agency responsible for managing the Forrest mountain bike trails and associated infrastructure.
“This plan will establish a vision for the future development of the trails, taking into account infrastructure needs, environmental impact, tourism opportunities and the social impact of development and the growth of Forrest that will result as a consequence,” he said.
“This long-term strategic plan will guide investment in the trails and act as a blueprint for future funding applications.”
November 24, 2011
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