Grand plans: Spring Gully will become the centre of an exciting network of mountain bike trails. Photo: Bendigo Tourism
Spring Gully will soon be a hub of mountain bike activity as new sustainable trails are built. Many existing trails have become degraded and eroded over time and with the boom in cycling are being impacted on more than ever. But the Bendigo Mountain Bike Club has big plans for Spring Gully. Over the last few years, it’s worked with local land managers towards a sustainable network of trails for the city.
The club has been developing its ideas for a planned network with Parks Victoria, City of Greater Bendigo and DELWP along with local community groups. Spring Gully has been identified as the priority area for development.
It’s easily accessible from the city centre, and intersects with the Bendigo Bushland Trail and the Goldfields Track which links Bendigo with Ballarat. The Goldfields Track has recently been deemed a trail of significance by the state government. The Ride Goldfields concept will see five mountain bike trail networks along its route including Harcourt and Spring Gully.
The club is currently seeking funding to have around 30 km of world class trails prepared by a professional design and construction company. Not content to simply sit and wait for funding, the club has been holding monthly working bees to construct a family friendly trail in the area closest to Wattle Drive. When completed it will create a 5 km loop for all levels of rider to develop their skills and fitness. This loop is being built in stages and more than half is rideable right now. Over 250 riders every week from elite riders through to young families are using the current trail.
The club is also proposing a shared walking and cycling path, skills loop, pump track and shelter structure for the land directly across the road from the One Tree Hill Hotel. Eventually this will form the northern gateway to the Goldfields Track.
The pavilion near the roundabout will incorporate a staging area for larger events, and signage for both the trail network and road rides that head south towards Sedgwick and Harcourt. The aim is to become a cycling hub for all types of riders. These are all exciting proposals for local and visiting riders alike. Download a copy of the masterplan overview (PDF 3.3 MB).
The club welcomes newcomers. If you would like to find out more or get involved, contact the club through its website mtbbendigo.com or on the Bendigo Mountain Bike Club Facebook page.
Life on a bike in Bendigo 