MARYBOROUGH’S new pump track will be built in ANZAC Park.
The site was selected after the Fraser Coast Regional Council conducted a public consultation and detailed site evaluation.
It’s understood the track will be built during the 2022/23 financial year.
While Brandan Hansen Park in Granville was also put forward as a possible location, Division 5 Councillor Jade Wellings said ANZAC Park offered better value for money.
“It was estimated that a significant portion of the grant, between 25 per cent and 40 per cent, would be required to fund supporting infrastructure at Brendan Hansen Park for electrical infrastructure to service lighting,” Cr Wellings explained.
“That would mean a pump track in Brendan Hansen Park would have to be scaled back.
“In contrast, the Anzac Park location is the right size for the pump track we want to build and will be close to the existing skate park, pathways, and on-street parking for vehicles.”
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Cr Wellings said ANZAC Park was also better suited for all abilities access.
“I want to see a more inclusive community and want to ensure the pump track is wheelchair friendly,” she said.
“Recently we opened a Changing Places facility (with an adult-sized change table and a hoist) at Anzac Park which would be accessible to people using the pump track.
“As part of a recent site visit it became apparent that besides the electrical shortfall, Brendan Hansen Park also doesn’t cater for the needs of all community members.
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“ANZAC Park is the premier park on the Fraser Coast, so putting a pump track there adds an extra dimension, an extra drawcard to attract holiday makers and Hervey Bay residents to visit Maryborough.”
Pump tracks were rapidly becoming popular recreation facilities across the country.
They consist of a circuit of rollers, banked turns and jumps designed to be ridden by generating momentum by up and down body movements, instead of pedalling or pushing, she said.
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The proposed tracks in Hervey Bay and Maryborough will include three distinct sections to cater for beginners, intermediate and experienced users.
Consultation with users on the elements to be included in the design of the Maryborough track will start soon.
“The tracks will be a great outlet for locals, as well as another feature that could attract visitors to the region,” Cr Wellings said.
“Competitions have started, and a number of Councils host annual events.”
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Red Bull started the Pump Track World Championship in 2018. In 2019, the Championships included a series of 26 events across 22 countries including Australia.
“Council is determined to support an active and healthy community through [the provision] of parks and open spaces that are enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities,” Cr Wellings said.
Council has received a $1.3-million grant from the Queensland Government through the Works For Queensland program to design and build the pump tracks on the Fraser Coast.
“The funding from the Queensland Government through the Works For Queensland program to design and build the pump track at Anzac Park is a fantastic initiative and a welcome addition that will benefit the youth and locals of Maryborough,” the Member for Maryborough Bruce Saunders said.
An investigation into a site for the Hervey Bay facility is ongoing.
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