Daredevil acts on DIY bike jump leave several people hospitalised in Langwarrin
A bike jump illegally built in a Langwarrin reserve is being bulldozed after several people, including children, were seriously injured.
South East
Don't miss out on the headlines from South East . Followed categories will be added to My News.
Several people, including children, have been hospitalised after performing daredevil tricks on a dangerous makeshift bike jump at a park in Melbourne’s southeast.
Ambulance Victoria confirmed it had been called out to treat a number of patients who had sustained serious injuries using an illegally built bike jump at McClelland Reserve, Langwarrin.
Melbourne Water, which maintains the reserve, said the bike jump would be removed.
“To prevent further injuries we are removing and levelling the unauthorised bike jumps and restoring the land to its natural state to allow the community to continue to enjoy it safely,” a Melbourne Water spokesman said.
“We understand that removing the bike jumps track may be disappointing for some people, but public safety is our absolute priority.
“After removing the bike jumps, we will plant native trees and restore the nature reserve to encourage native animals and insects to return to the area.”
Nikki Stevens, who regularly walks her dog at the reserve, said she was happy the bike was removed for safety.
“You obviously don’t want to see kids getting hurt,” she said.
“But I think kids need more outdoor activities to do in the local area.
“I am all for the kids being outside riding on their bikes rather than roaming around the shops or at home.”
Frankston City Council chief executive Phil Cantillon said the council wants to continue to promote active lifestyles for young people.
“Frankston council recognises the important role that safe, well designed bike riding facilities play in promoting active lifestyles and connecting our young people, and we continue to invest in these facilities,” Mr Cantillon said.
“In addition to the Langwarrin Skate, BMX trail and pump track at nearby Lloyd Park, Council has recently completed the $780,000 Overport Bike Park in Frankston South, and together with the Victorian government, completed a $766,000 upgrade to the Frankston Sharks BMX Club in Seaford.
“Other skate facilities in the municipality include Frankston Skate Park, adjacent to PARC in the centre of Frankston, along with Seaford Skate Park in Seaford, Monterey Reserve Skate Park in Frankston North, and the Sandfield Reserve Skate Park in Carrum Downs.”
