JUNE 28, 2022 - COMMUNITY GATHERS TO PUMP IT AT THE CARDWELL PUMP TRACK
A crowd of wheels, including skateboards, BMX bikes, scooters and mountain bikes, assembled at the opening of the Cardwell Pump Track today, all eager to be the first to test out the new facility.
Excitement levels were high as children and adults, including Cassowary Coast Regional Councillor Barry Barnes and State Member for Hinchinbrook, Nick Dametto, rode the 170-meter track for the first time.
Councillor Barry Barnes said the Cardwell community was buzzing with anticipation in the lead-up to the opening of the track.
“The Cardwell Pump Track is the first pump track to open in the region and is an exciting step as establishing Cardwell as a ‘Ride Destination’.
“The whole community came together and riders of all levels, including myself, were able to enjoy the world-class facility and ride the different features of the track including the ‘rollers and berms’.
“The project has been largely driven by the community, including Cardwell Lions, the Cardwell Mountain Bike Trials group, the Kirrama Range Road Support Group, Cardwell Care and local indigenous elder, Marcia Gerry. The Track is part of a larger project which will see Cardwell recognised as a world-leading mountain bike trail destination,” said Councillor Barnes.
Girramay Elder, Marcia Gerry said she is very happy to see the pump track open in Cardwell, on Girrramay Country.
“It has been great to work with the Community and Council to create a facility that acknowledges our country and I am proud of the work we have done.
“This pump track will be a great facility to be enjoyed by local children as well as visitors,” said Marcia.
Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the Cardwell Pump Track was an investment in the health of North Queenslanders.
“The Track delivers new opportunities for experienced and new cyclists to stay active and engaged in their community,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“We’re investing in infrastructure like the Cardwell Pump Track because we know active North Queenslanders are healthy North Queenslanders.
“Keeping Queenslanders active and healthy is one of the lasting legacies the Palaszczuk Government wants to achieve from the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“With BMX racing an Olympic sport, Cardwell could evolve as a proving ground for young North Queenslanders dreaming of competing for state and country.”
The Cardwell Pump Track, was built by World Trials, one of the largest and most experienced mountain bike trail companies, and aims to attract the attention of riders of all abilities and experiences. It is a great facility for riders to practice and perfect their skills in anticipation for the opening of the Cardwell Tropical Mountain Bike Trail Project.
Funding was provided from the Commonwealth of Australia to the State of Queensland under the Federal Funding Agreement – Environment.
More information on the project can be found by visiting the project page at www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/cardwellpumptrack. Alternatively, contact Council on 1300 763 903 or email enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.