THE Wedding Bells State Forest Mountain Bike Trail Network is set to expand with three new trails and a shelter and seating area and a space for skills development thanks to $400,397 in State Government funding.

Woolgoolga Mountain Bike Club (WMTBC) worked with Forestry Corporation NSW and local Indigenous representatives to fine tune their successful application, paying attention to environmental impacts and amenity for other users of the State Forest.

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WMTBC President Greg Stocks thanked both groups and Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh for their support in applying for the Stronger Country Community Fund grant.

Greg told News Of The Area, “We have around 100 members in our club who use the trails on a weekly basis, with club events each month.

“With the addition of a beginner’s loop and some easier trails we are hoping to appeal to families and to engage with more female riders in the future.”

Similar upgrades to mountain bike infrastructure in other states has resulted in large increases in the number of sports tourists coming to the facilities.

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said, “Mountain biking is extremely popular on the Coffs Coast and this exciting initiative by Woolgoolga Mountain Bike Club will further raise the sport’s profile.

“I’m also certain it will lead to more eco-tourism opportunities in our region, this funding will enable the club to build and install three new wider and easier mountain bike trails, a skill development area, and a shelter/seating area.

“This will enhance the current facilities and encourage more women and girls to get involved in mountain bike riding.”

“The project will improve safety, create more riding options for users of all abilities from beginners to experienced riders, empower more women and girls to ride, and enable women’s and youth projects to be run.

“These enhancements are expected to attract more visitors and help grow and encourage an active, inclusive and fun mountain biking community in the Woolgoolga area.”

By David TUNE