West coast mountain bike project - public submissions

The Chair of the West Coast Economic Working Group, Adam Brooks, has released more detail on proposed upgrades to mountain bike tracks in the region.

The document is available for download below and submissions can be made before 5:00 pm on Friday, 19 December.

The west coast, and Zeehan in particular, is set to become a key part of an emerging world-class Tasmanian mountain bike experience.

In October 2014, the Tasmanian Government allocated $1.21 million towards the development of a suite of mountain bike trails as part of a package of measures designed to help diversify the west coast economy.

With a legacy of disused tramways and tracks from past mining and forestry activities, Zeehan is well placed to be the focal point for the project. These trails will provide the foundation for an organic 'back-to-the-roots' experience enhanced by sections of purpose-designed and built trail.

The trails will showcase the unique landscapes and natural and heritage values of the region, taking riders through majestic rainforest, past spectacular waterfalls, under towering cliffs and across sweeping heathlands.

The experiences will be well suited to riders of all abilities including those in the easy to intermediate range with a number of trails that are flat or of easy gradient.

The west coast experience will complement and support other high profile mountain bike trails such as the North-South and Meehan Range in Hobart; Blue Tier, Derby, Hollybank, Kate Reed and Trevallyn in the north east; and Penguin on the north west coast.

These collective experiences have the potential to position Tasmania as a major mountain biking tourism destination.