Warburton Mountain Bike Destination

Environment Effects Statement – Inquiry and Committee Hearing Update

The Inquiry Hearing for Warburton Mountain Bike Destination Project Environment Effects Statement (EES) commenced yesterday at 10am with a full day of discussion.

To begin proceedings, the panel introduced themselves and explained the framework for the hearing, and the level of civility expected by participants.

First to be heard for Day 1 was World Trail, an industry leading mountain bike trail construction company, represented by Glen Jacobs and Gerard McHugh. Their presentation defined ‘what mountain biking is’, discussed their low impact approach to modern trail building and the importance of creating a travel worthy ‘destination’.

After the lunch break, Colleen Peterson from Ratio (Planning Consultants) presented on planning and social issues. Anecdotally, Colleen gave her own perceptions of the mountain bike community with resoundingly positive and inclusive family friendly experiences.

At the conclusion of Ms Peterson’s statement, a cross examination on specifics within her statement of the draft PSA began by the legal counsel for Victorian National Parks Association (VNPA), and Peter Tesdorpf of The Upper Yarra Sustainability Alliance. The Country Fire Authority, represented by Luci Johnson, asked several clarifying questions before time ran out for Day 1.

The timetable for the remainder of the hearing is available here.

For more information on the Hearing use this link.

We will continue to keep you informed with updates during the hearing.