Mountain bike rider Frank Falappi, 57, dies at scene of downhill crash at Smithfield track
A legend of the Far North mountain bike community who tragically died in a fatal crash on a well-known trail has been remembered as a much-loved and respected Cairns figure.
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A legend of the Far North Queensland mountain bike community who died in a fatal crash on a well-known trail has been remembered as a much-loved and respected Cairns figure.
Two paramedic units responded to calls for help at 10.33am on Friday at the Smithfield Mountain Bike Park behind the James Cook University campus.
The rider was police sergeant Frank Falappi, 57, widely-known throughout the region for his work for the Queensland Police Service and his passion for mountain biking.
It is understood Mr Falappi suffered serious head injuries as a result of the accident and was sadly declared dead at the scene.
In a statement provided to the Cairns Post, a spokeswoman for AusCycling said the team had been devastated by the news of Mr Falappi’s death.
“The AusCycling team is deeply saddened by the death of Frank Falappi and our thoughts are with his family and friends, colleagues and the tight knit Cairns mountain biking community,” she said.
“Frank was a keen supporter of our events at the Smithfield Mountain Bike Park, driving our shuttles and participating in races.
“AusCycling has organised counselling for members of the Cairns Mountain Bike Club.”
The AusCycling spokeswoman said she could not comment on the specifics of the incident as police were investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Far North District Duty Officer, Duane Amos said Mr Falappi was a champion bloke.
“I’ve known (him) all my career up here,” he said.
“(He’s a) Mount Isa boy like myself and the typical country copper that will be sorely missed by everyone including his loved ones.”
The Cairns Mountain Bike Club also shared an online tribute on Saturday, stating the coming weeks would be an extremely difficult time for the sporting community.
“We are here to support you and each other,” the post read.
“Our mountain bike community (is) to gather around and support each other through this difficult time.”
Communtiy members also expressed their grief and shared memories of Mr Falappi online.
“The big toothy smile has gone to ride the hero dirt forever,” one person wrote.
“Deepest condolences to the family. I remember meeting Frank many, many years ago and remember his passion and vision for Smithfield MTB Park,” another said.
“I’ve never met a more passionate and giving man to the sport of cycling. Selfless to the point of exhaustion.”
It is understood Mr Falappi had been at the track training for the UCI Masters Mountain Bike World Championships due to start on Wednesday.
Competitor Michael Brockley from Victoria was on the course practising on Friday.
He said course marshals made him aware of an incident on the trail, known as Stingers.
“The guy just said ‘seeing as it’s your first day here there’s been an accident, so just take it easy’,” he said.
The Stingers route down the mountain is classed as a black trail.
In mountain biking, a black trail signifies the most difficult and challenging terrain, requiring advanced riding skills and experience.
Mr Brockley said he had ridden trails all over the world and considered Stingers one of the toughest.
“This is probably one of the hairiest tracks I’ve ever ridden in my life,” he said.
“But there’s a sign saying caution and with racing, you’ve got to wear a full-face helmet and knee guards.”
The serious crash is the second in the past six months and follows an incident involving a teenager in September 2024 who suffered a medical episode and was flown to Cairns Hospital with life-threatening head injuries.
The Smithfield mountain bike trail network is one of the oldest in the country and is enjoyed by casual riders and elite professionals from around the globe who take to the world class but sometimes treacherous downhill tracks.
Queensland Police Service were approached for comment.
A spokeswoman said police would prepare a report for the coroner.
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Originally published as Mountain bike rider Frank Falappi, 57, dies at scene of downhill crash at Smithfield track
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