The trail network is expected to generate 77,000 overnight stays. Travelling riders often spend four to five days at a large mountain bike destination, extending Warburton’s weekend visitor market into the weekdays and benefiting local businesses including accommodation, hospitality, retail and transport operators.

Though most riders will stay in accommodation close to the trail network, they will distribute spending across the region, often taking breaks from riding for day trips to regional attractions.

Modelling of the project’s economic benefits has taken account of the ongoing reduction in international tourism due to COVID-19.

Once the trails are operating, the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination is forecast to inject $48 million to the local economy.