Community
20 June, 2026
Pump track ‘a start’ for bikers’ dream
An event to officially open the track will take place next Monday at 3.30pm.
AFTER years of advocating for a place for young riders to safely enjoy a space of their own, they are seemingly one step closer to that dream.
The St Arnaud Mountain Bike Club has shown its appreciation for the new modular/temporary pump track that will soon officially open at Lord Nelson Park next week.
“While this isn’t the long term facility the St Arnaud Mountain Bike Club has been advocating for, our vision remains the development of a permanent bike track and riding facilities that cater for all ages, abilities and interests,” club president Jackie Peacock said. “That said, this temporary pump track is a start. It provides an opportunity for younger riders to get involved and for our community to demonstrate that there is genuine demand for bike infrastructure in St Arnaud.
“We encourage everyone who can make use of the track to get along, have a ride and show their support. Strong community use helps build the case for the permanent, accessible bike facilities our community has been advocating for.
“Please take photos, tag us or send them to us so we can share them and help build our case.”
The club told the NCN Herald late last year there were a number of youngsters who wanted a place they could ride without fear of injury or sabotage from others in the community.
They wrote to Northern Grampians Shire Council, hoping a permanent solution could be included in the next Lord Nelson Park master plan.
Northern Grampians Shire Council mayor Karen Hyslop said after securing a grant from VicHealth, consultation with the shire’s primary schools identified a pump track as the top selection from a list of equipment and activity options. She said she understood the St Arnaud community – particularly St Arnaud Mountain Bike Club – had been campaigning for a purpose-built bike track for many years.
“The grant we successfully applied for was aimed at active opportunities for middle years youth,” she said. “While we do not have an adult bike track funded in the next Council Budget, the Council Plan 202529 features an action to complete scope and feasibility work for pump tracks across the shire. This is likely to be done in year four of the Council Plan.”
An event to officially open the track will take place next Monday at 3.30pm.
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