Pump track plans spark interest

PLANS for a pump track to be established in Collie were placed before Collie Shire Council at its latest meeting.

Brent Welhan, of WestOz Track Designs, addressed the council on the potential of establishing a pump track in town.

Mr Welhan said a variety of riders are visiting the town, and expanding the trails network to include a pump track would be a real step up for a lot of tourists.

He explained that a pump track could be used to hold events.

“With sponsorship, big events could be organised here,” he said.

“There is a great deal of interest in pump tracks, all over Australia and all over the world.

“There would be the capacity to attract a lot of people.”

He suggested that the velodrome would be an ideal location, but there were also other possibilities.

“There is also room for the track at the recreation ground, or possibly Roche Park,” he said.

“At the recreation ground, the football club amenities could be used. “At the moment, riders come from Perth and ride the trails, then go home,” he said.

“If there was a pump track, they could extend their stay, do the trails, and then ride the pump track.

“It would mean they would spend more money in the town.”

Councillors were told that pump tracks are very popular, and can be used to upskill mountain bike riders.

Cr Leonie Scoffern said another pump track was already in the planning stages and asked if Collie could sustain more than one pump track.

Cr Brett Hansen suggested the proponents should explore what grants they could apply for to help establish a pump track.

He asked Mr Welhan if he had spoken to the BMX club.

Mr Welhan replied that there would be support from BMX, the mountain bike club and the cycle club.

“This would not be a cross country pump track, but back to back pump tracks on one site. It is a different design, not bigger,” he said.

Deputy shire president Cr Ian Miffling said that while the plans were very impressive, a business plan was needed.

“It is a great idea, with a possibility of cycling events expansion,” he said.

Cr Elysia Harverson asked, if the track was established, who would be in charge of its maintenance.

“You need to prepare a proposal to present to council,” she said.