- The Crisafulli Government is delivering the biggest expansion in Smithfield Mountain Bike Park’s history, creating one of Australia’s premier adventure tourism destinations.
- Shaped by strong community feedback and designed by World Trail, the masterplan creates 62 kilometers of new trails which will attract more visitors to Far North Queensland and support local jobs.
- The Crisafulli Government’s Destination 2045 plan is delivering world-leading outdoor and nature-based experiences which would not have been possible under the former Labor Government’s plan to cut tourism funding by 95 per cent.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering better services through a stronger economy with a major boost for Far North Queensland, unveiling plans for the biggest expansion in Smithfield Mountain Bike Park’s history.
The Smithfield Mountain Bike Park Expansion Masterplan outlines a bold vision to transform the iconic venue into an internationally recognised adventure tourism destination, attracting more visitors, creating more jobs and growing the region’s economy.
Designed by World Trail, the masterplan provides a roadmap to expand the park’s trail network from around 25 kilometres to more than 85 kilometres, with designs for more than 62 kilometres of new trails catering to riders of all abilities.
Set between the Wet Tropics rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, Smithfield is already recognised as one of Australia’s premier mountain biking destinations and a major drawcard for national and international events.
The expansion will unlock new riding experiences, upgraded visitor facilities, improved event infrastructure and enhanced safety measures, helping attract more visitors, support local businesses, and strengthen the region’s tourism economy.
As one of the Crisafulli Government’s flagship 45 by 45 ecotourism projects, the Smithfield expansion is delivering Destination 2045 by creating another world-class experience that gives visitors more reasons to choose Queensland and explore every corner of our State.
Unlike the former Labor Government, which planned to slash tourism funding by 95 per cent, the Crisafulli Government is delivering the projects that will grow regional economies for decades to come.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the expansion was another example of the Crisafulli Government delivering on its commitment to deliver better services through a stronger economy.
“We said we would back Far North Queensland tourism, and that is exactly what we are doing.” Minister Powell said.
“This is the biggest expansion in Smithfield’s history, and it will give more people another reason to visit Tropical North Queensland, stay longer and support local businesses.
“Queensland is home to some of the most spectacular places anywhere in the world and we want more people to experience every corner of our State.”
Assistant Tourism Minister and Member for Barron River Bree James said the masterplan reflected the vision the local community had helped shape for the future of Smithfield.
“This is about creating a better experience for local riders, families and visitors while ensuring Smithfield continues to deliver benefits for our community for decades to come,” Ms James said.
“Smithfield is already loved by local riders, and this expansion means our community will have even more world-class trails right here in our own backyard.
“We’re delivering the facilities and experiences that our local mountain biking community has been asking for, while creating more reasons for riders from across Australia and around the world to choose Cairns for their next adventure.”
World Trail Director Glen Jacobs said the release of the Smithfield Mountain Bike Park Expansion Masterplan was an exciting milestone.
“The masterplan provides a clear, long-term vision that builds on Smithfield’s international reputation while creating more opportunities for riders of all abilities to enjoy the network,” Mr Jacobs said.
“We’re proud to have contributed to a plan that balances world-class trail experiences with environmental sustainability and long-term destination growth.”
Construction of the expanded network is expected to start in 2027 and be completed by late 2028.
The Smithfield Mountain Bike Park Expansion Masterplan is available online .
