Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails set to be officially opened on Sunday, April 21

The Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails are set to be officially opened this weekend, discover the details and potential benefits for Mackay.

The Finch Hatton mountain bike pump track. Picture: Supplied.

The Mackay region’s Finch Hatton mountain bike trails are less than a week away from it grand opening.

The public has been able to use trails for the past seven weeks, but Sunday April 21 will mark the official opening, with the entire trailhead site now available to visitors.

The opening comes after the trails were approved for construction in January, 2023, an announcement that was preceded by seven years of planning.

At the time, councillor Justin Englert said 5-8,000 tourists could be expected into the region each year as a result of the mountain bike trails.

Tender documents also indicated an additional $18 million would be generated in economic benefit for the Mackay region.

Sunday’s opening of the trails is set to include a fun community day, with market stalls and food vendors as well as a free barbecue, inflatable slide and rock-climbing wall for kids.

“We invite everyone to head out to the trailhead, bring your bikes, have a go on the pump track and check out the fantastic trails that are open for everyone to use,” said Mackay mayor Greg Williamson, noting the trails had been built to international standards by global leaders in mountain bike trail design and construction.

Design plans for the Pioneer Valley Mountain Bike Trails at Finch Hatton and Eungella. Picture: Mackay Regional Council

“World Trail has done a magnificent job and these trails will put Mackay on the national and international map as a mountain bike destination, with massive economic benefits for the entire region.

“The trailhead site will be a place where you start and finish your mountain bike adventure and enjoy a family day out.

“There’s a pump track suitable for all ages and riding abilities, plenty of picnic shelters, amenities and some local historical features.”

$500,000 was invested into the trail network by the Queensland Government, a figure that pleased Mackay MP Julieanne Gilbert.

“I want to thank Mackay Regional Council, the Mackay Mountain Bike Alliance and all other stakeholders for their dedication to this project that will put the region on the world map for mountain biking,” Mrs Gilbert said.

“The trails and the trailhead will further enhance Queensland’s great lifestyle, attracting visitors from around Australia and the world and strengthening our visitor experience.”

The opening will consist of an official plaque unveiling from 9.30am for invited guests, before the activities kick off from 10am to 1pm at the Finch Hatton MTB Trailhead, 44 Anzac Parade.