Jump in and share your feedback on dirt jumps

The City of Whittlesea is calling for feedback on a concept plan for a dirt jumps track to be established in Doreen.

The track which will be established as a pilot program will be located at the Painted Hills Recreation Reserve and is in response to a petition from riders calling for improved facilities.

Painted Hills Recreation Reserve was chosen due to its central location and proximity to shared path networks and public transport. If the 12-month pilot program is successful, the jumps will be made permanent.

Dirt jumps are structures made from compacted soil that are used primarily by BMX and mountain bike riders to perform “tricks” on.

Council has worked with Youth Services Australia, as well as local riders, to develop a draft concept plan for a track suitable for beginner, intermediate and advanced users.

When built, the track will be regularly inspected over a 12-month period and the success of the pilot program will be determined by how well it is used and maintained by riders. 

City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson encouraged riders to have their say on the jumps’ key design features, as well as their location within the Painted Hills Recreation Reserve.

“We are excited to hear directly from riders to help inform this pilot program; feedback will help shape these purpose-built jumps,” she said.

During the COVID lockdown periods there was a surge of interest in the sport, with some riders constructing home-made dirt jumps on Council land.

These unauthorised jumps, often located in sensitive conservation areas, pose a significant risk to both rider safety and the natural environment.

Once the dirt jumps track at Painted Hills Recreation Reserve is built, Council will remove unauthorised jumps at Lauries Field Conservation Area in Doreen.

“We acknowledge the passion riders have for building their own jumps, but the decision to remove the jumps addresses concerns about the potential for injuries among riders.”

“Further, we have a commitment to environmental conservation and these unauthorised dirt bike jumps are built within protected areas.”

To provide feedback on the concept plan, visit engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/dirtjumps

Residents can have their say on the plan either online or in-person at two upcoming community information sessions, with the consultation period open until Friday, 5 April.