BMX tracks near me: Moonee Valley plans pump tracks and mountain bike paths

Teens in Melbourne’s north won’t have to resort to building their own BMX jumps with plans afoot to help riders hone their skills.

BMX jumps and track created by local teens during lockdown. Picture: Josie Hayden

The voices of Moonee Valley’s youngest residents have been heard and authorities have promised to splash cash on bike tracks.

Last year, during lockdown, a group of young BMX enthusiasts spent their time outside creating bike jumps near Moonee Ponds creek.

But after a brief stand-off with the 14-year-olds, Moonee Valley Council demolished the “unsafe” structures because of safety concerns.

Months later the council decided to pump almost $300,000 into BMX and mountain biking.

An official assessment done by the council led to a $290,000 commitment in the council’s 2021-22 budget to build proper tracks and jumps.

A pump track, which can be moved, is already planned for Montgomery Park in Essendon and riders will be consulted on future plans.

Moonee Valley Mayor Cameron Nation said the money would mean young riders would have a say on future works instead of building illegal tracks.

“At the moment, younger people are resorting to building their own jumps and circuits which reflects their passion and creativity,” Cr Nation said.

“Unfortunately, homemade jumps can be dangerous, and some of the circuits are also damaging to vegetation and facilities in our parks.”

Cr Nation said the council’s new tracks would provide safe opportunities for young riders and a list of potential sites for more tracks had already been compiled.

“We have listened to the suggestions from the Young People Outdoors survey conducted in late 2020, and we want to meet that BMX and mountain bike passion with new or upgraded facilities and we will continue to consult with the community as these take shape.” Mr Nation said.