Tasman Peninsula lease of 40ha hope to attract more visitors
A volunteer-run group in the state’s south are hoping to bring a taste of the tourism success of mountain biking towns like Derby to their 40ha slice of paradise. The future of their bike trails.
Tasmania
Don't miss out on the headlines from Tasmania. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A small group run by volunteers is hoping to create a world-class public bike trail network on the Tasman Peninsula which the local council says will be a boost to the economy.
Tasman Peninsula Mountain Bike Association president Drew Carr said the club had leased 100 acres of private land in Taranna and in the past 12 months had worked hard to create a small bike park to meet the immediate demand for trails in the area.
“The primary objective of the club is to campaign for a world-class public trail network to be constructed on the hills behind Taranna,” he said.
“Our club’s private trail network may help attract more visitors, however we do not market heavily as it is only a small, volunteer run operation.
“We are confident that a large public trail network, similar to St Helens, Derby and so on would have enormous positive economic and social impact on the area, attracting more visitors and extending their stays.”
An open day at the end of October attracted 150 people and Tasman mayor Rod MacDonald is confident the trails have a “bright future”.
“The popularity of mountain bike trails continues to grow around the country and along with it a steady increase in the tourism impact in our regions,” he said.
“I think in the years ahead we will see the track at Taranna attract a share of this market and contribute to our economy in a positive way – including overnight stays.
“Tasman’s mountain bike track is a boutique offering with a choice of tracks to suit the learner or novice through to the more experienced rider.”
Mr Carr said the club’s location set it apart from other bike parks in Tasmania.
“Our location is the key difference,” he said.
“Situated near beautiful beaches, the Port Arthur historic site, plenty of accommodation, other adventure activities and excellent dining there is something for everyone.
“Derby and Maydena are fantastic places to ride, but our location is different because it can provide an amazing, diverse experience.”
He is hoping for state and federal funding to create public trails.
Mr Carr said the Tasman Council were supportive but with only a few thousand ratepayers it lacked the resources needed to help fund the project.
Club member Paul Richardson said all memberships collected went firstly into insurance costs and then into expanding the trail network.
“We have had fantastic support from local businesses and community groups in the form of product and cash donations,” he said.
“The donations on top of our memberships have allowed us to add one professionally built trail to the hand built trails that the network is known for.
“We have planned to add a second professionally built trail this autumn.”
Mr MacDonald said the trails were proving popular with young and old residents alike.
“I also really like the welcoming and entrepreneurial approach of the committee, whereby visitors arriving at the Taranna facility have the option to sign up online for temporary membership and ride the track immediately.
“This will help to maximise participation and give enjoyment to as many people as possible.”
‘Abominable’: Tasman mayor lashes internet and phone coverage
In the summer months the Tasman Peninsula swells with tourists, Read why the addition of cruise ship visitors is causing serious problems for businesses and locals.
Eat Pray Love this place: Why famous author is mad for Tassie
Her books have sold millions of copies around the world but Eat Pray Love author Elizabeth Gilbert says one place in particular has cast a spell on her – Tasmania.