Wheels set in motion on new biking facilities for Cooma

An election promise of millions of dollars for new biking trails in the Snowy Monaro region has been made by the Federal Government.

If re-elected, the Albanese Government will allocate $3.1 million towards the construction of 54 km of new trails, including a large-scale asphalt pump track, to suit all skill levels.

Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain said the proposal was “making the best of what’s in Cooma’s backyard”.

“I’ve seen how transformative the development of mountain bike trails can be for regional towns – with successful projects off the ground in Eden, Narooma and Tumbarumba,” she said.

“This project would be a boon for local businesses – particularly the hospitality and accommodation sectors – with a significant influx of riders year-round.

“But it’s not only great for visitors – these trails and the pump track will be well utilised by Cooma residents of all ages.”

Ms McBain said the trailheads would start and finish in Cooma.

The pump track – a kind of track on which riders use their momentum to propel themselves – would be located in town.

For Jan Wassink, president of the Snowy Mountains MTB Club, the development is a long-held dream.

“This project has been a long-term goal for the Snowy Mountains MTB Club since its inception in 2016 – the potential of this expansion does more than just enhance the tourism experience in Cooma, it provides recreational benefits for local youth through the trails and pump track,” he said.

“The expansion would also tie in with other localities within the Snowy Monaro Regional Council area, such as Jindabyne, Thredbo and Tumbarumba, as well as on the South Coast, including Narooma, Eden and Mogo to create a greater South East region bike destination.”

Mr Wassink said the proposed pump track would help the next generation of bikers get started as athletes.

“Those sorts of things are safe, they’re easy starting points for young kids [in biking],” he said.

“It gives them a kick-off point for entering into the world of mountain biking and hopefully going onto Red Bull and the world championships.

“Cooma – or the region, rather – has been really well represented [in competition].”

Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth grants rules and principles.

The pledge is the latest to come in recent weeks as the election campaign heats up.

Liberal candidate for Eden-Monaro, Jo van der Plaat, recently pledged to upgrade Bega Pool with a 10-lane 25-m pool, warm water pool, wading pool with water play features, accessible facilities, and incorporate an environmentally sustainable design.

The Albanese Government is also promising a $16 million upgrade to the Bega Valley War Memorial Swimming Pool, with plans to develop the existing outdoor pool into a new heated facility.

The federal election will be held on 3 May.