Welcome

Mountain bike enthusiasts will be able to pedal through scenic forest and bushland from Mundaring to Albany, thanks to $3million of Royalties for Regions funding announced jointly today by Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls and Environment Minister Donna Faragher.

Western Australia’s off-road cycle touring trail, the Munda Biddi Trail, is currently about 500km long, extending to Nannup, and will be more than 1,000km once completed.

The funding is over three years through the Regional Grants Scheme, providing opportunities for local communities to improve and develop infrastructure and services in regional WA.

“The grants are for projects that help attract investment and increase jobs or improve the quality of life in regional WA,” Mr Grylls said.

“I am delighted that one of these is the construction of the trail’s Nannup to Albany section. This is a world-class cycle touring trail providing an opportunity for riders to take in some of the most stunning natural bushland and scenery in the State’s southern part.”

Mrs Faragher said the Munda Biddi Trail was fast becoming one of the South-West’s most popular tourist attractions with an estimated 22,000 international, interstate and WA-based cyclists using it each year.

“Since its inception in 2000, the trail has delivered significant economic benefits to the regions and towns it runs through, with Munda Biddi cyclists spending an average of more than $100 a day on accommodation, fuel, food, supplies and equipment,” she said.

“Within three years, an estimated 25,000 people a year will be using the trail, injecting about $13million into the State’s economy.”

Mr Grylls said the project would create jobs during the construction phase and open new tourism, health and lifestyle opportunities.

For more information on the Munda Biddi Trail visit http://www.dec.wa.gov.au/parks-and-recreation/tracks-and-trails/munda-biddi-trail.html

Information about the Regional Grants Scheme is available at http://www.RoyaltiesforRegions.wa.gov.au