Two years of community work has been celebrated in Kangaroo Valley with the official opening of the area's new Pump Track.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The official opening on Saturday celebrated the community's effort and dedication in seeing the project to fruition.
The opening also coincided with the announcement of a $10,000 grant by Kiama MP Gareth Ward towards the project by the NSW Government.
Kangaroo Valley Pump Track Project Coordinator David Johnson said the project would not have happened without a core group of locals who have dedicated machinery, resources and loads of time to the completion of this amazing track.
"This community project has been two years in the making," he said.
Read more:
"The track builder Shaun O'Connor is a local who used to build jumps in this area, he has been amazing in making this track one that all range of riders will enjoy.
"After the damage caused by the fires in 2020 and the subsequent down turn in tourism after COVID, the Village was beginning to feel a little flat.
"Locals have now got something to smile about and are super excited to start riding the track."
He said the Kangaroo Valley Community had really pulled together to get the project over the line.
"Businesses and families have not only donated money but digging, mulching, planting, laying turf, moving rocks, watering plants and making cookies to ensure the success of the pump track," Mr Johnson said.
He said the opening was well attended.
"We had heaps of locals and visitors alike and the best part was seeing all the kids on their bikes doing endless circuits of the track," Mr Johnson said.
"Everyone enjoyed the free sausage sizzle and fantastic demo riders on their mountain bikes, dirt jumpers and BMXs.
"It was nice for the community to receive recognition from Gilmore MP Fiona Phillips, Kiama MP Gareth Ward and Shoalhaven Deputy Mayor John Wells."
Shaun O'Connor the local Kangaroo Valley resident who built the track got to both cut the ribbon and ride the first glory lap, before the track was inundated with kids.
Professional mountain biker Josh Carlson who attended the opening, gave credit to the track builders and the community volunteers and said the track was outstanding and of world standard, equal to anything that he has seen in his travels on the world circuit.
"We would also like to acknowledge all of our major sponsors including Gareth Ward MP and the NSW Government for the funding they secured for this project - it is greatly appreciated," Mr Johnson said.
Mr Ward said the brand new Kangaroo Valley Pump Track would be a "real game changer" for the local Valley community especially the young junior riders.
"I was extremely pleased to secure $10,000 from the Premier Gladys Berejiklian for the new pump track," he said.
"As the local Member for Kiama, I have always worked hard to secure investments that make a significant and lasting difference for our local communities and this project is right up at the top of the list.
"Pump tracks allow for all range of bikers as well as skateboarders and scooters and are incredibly popular in our district and I am always keen to seek grants that support sports and active recreation that leads to healthier lives.
"This new pump track facility is a great asset to the local Kangaroo Valley community and will accommodate thousands of users each year and ensures a fun and safe facility and track for all riders."
He also acknowledged Shoalhaven City Council for their involvement and co-ordinator David Johnson.
We depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.
Do you want more Shoalhaven news?
- Sign up now for our free morning headlines and breaking news emails