We have been notified by residents of makeshift bike jumps and damage to trees along the Bellarine Rail Trail between Kensington Road and Bawtree Road in Leopold, including several trees and branches that have been cut and severed.
Our assessment of the site has found significant damage to trees and vegetation and determined that the makeshift jumps are unsuitable and unsafe to users.
To reduce the risk of injury for the community, jumps will need to be levelled whilst the City continues to look for more opportunities to encourage and support outdoor physical activity for all ages.
It’s important that our open spaces are safe for all users to enjoy – whether you’re riding your bike, walking your dog or going for a run.
City officers will also work to restore the natural values to the site following damage to trees and vegetation.
We know that many young people are involved in bike riding and understand that this may be disappointing to some community members who have created and used these makeshift bike jumps, however, public safety needs to be the City’s top priority.
We encourage young people to continue embracing outdoor sports and to seek out safer, fit-for-purpose tracks to pursue this interest. Exercising and hanging out with friends is vital for our wellbeing – and we know this is particularly important during COVID-19.
The City is actively looking to identify new opportunities for young people to enjoy this sport and outdoor activities more broadly.
As part of our new 2021-25 Our Community Plan, we’ve committed to providing more facilities that foster positive health and wellbeing.
A designated bike discovery area has been proposed in Barwon Heads through the Barwon Heads Village Park Masterplan, which was recently adopted by Council.
If you have any questions about the removal of these jumps, please contact Bridget Mason, Recreation & Open Space Project Officer, on 5272 4402 or [email protected]
