Victoria Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford

World-Class Bike Trail Opens In Harcourt

Victor P Taffa

Andrews Government is delivering new world-class bike trails in regional Victoria with the opening of the La Larr Ba Guawa Park in Harcourt just in time for the Labour Day long weekend.

Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford joined Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio and Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards today to open the park to mountain bike riders.

“La Larr Ba Gauwa Park will attract more people to explore the region and lead to the creation of 57 jobs within 5 years, while generating $9.8 Million in visitor spending.” Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford said.

“Right across the state, we’re investing in initiatives that make regional Victoria an even better place to live, work and visit.”

La Larr Ba Guawa Park is 2 km east of Harcourt and adjoins the Mount Alexander Regional Park. It includes 34 km of trails that take advantage of the site’s stunning views and granite landscapes. It caters to riders from beginners to advanced, with technical features that will have riders returning again and again.

“Mountain bike riders have a new world-class trail network to explore in our incredible parks.” Minister for Energy Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio said.

As well as a variety of trails, the well-signposted park also includes toilets and a meeting shelter. Mountain bike riders will park in Harcourt and access the Park via a newly constructed off-road path.

“This project will help to put Harcourt and Central Victoria on the map as a new mountain bike destination of choice and build on the popularity of the Goldfields Track.” Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards said.

Bike trails project is expected to increase the number of visitors to the precinct to 25,000 visitors per year in 2018. Within the 5 years, the precinct is expected to attract 100,000 visitors a year and create 57 jobs in the visitor economy.

“This began as an idea from the local community and with hard work and partnerships, we’ve been able to build a world class facility.” Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan said.

Annual visitor spending is expected to reach $2.4 Million in 2018 and increase to $9.8 Million after 5 years. The project is also projected to spark private sector investment in bike related services and the hospitality sector.

State Government invested almost $2.5 Million towards the project.