CLICK HERE to view the February project update

Media Release: Omeo MTB Trails Project update - February (eastgippsland.vic.gov.au)

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Photos - Omeo Mountain Bike Destination Project

CLICK HERE to view the December project update

Council have been appointed as the Committee of Management (CoM) over certain sections of the Bingo-Munjie Forest Park (formally Mt Sam State Park), specifically focusing on the Omeo MTB Trails.

One of the most notable aspects of this appointment is the endorsement of the trail corridor network for the Omeo MTB Trails in Bingo-Munjie Forest Park. This is a significant development that promises enhanced trail management, preservation and an improved experience for all trail users.

Importantly, the Department of Environment, Energy, and Climate Action (DEECA) has appointed Council as the land manager for Mt Sam Road. This allows us to collaborate on road maintenance and potential enhancements for a better and safer trail network.

CLICK HERE to view the September / October project update

Trail construction is progressing on stages 1 and 2 simultaneously. In stage 2 Trail XC 14 on Mt Sam has 5124 metres completed.

This will complement Stage 1 trails being progressed in the same area. Other Stage 2 trails are planned to commence shortly.

Ten kilometres of Stage 1 (56km total) trails was completed in April 2023.

We have chosen to have these trails handed over so we can manage and maintain them as locals start to ride them in.

We anticipate this first 10km ‘taster’ will be predominantly trialled by local riders and includes a blend of fun beginner and intermediate cross-country and gravity trails with great views over Livingstone Creek and Omeo. All can be accessed from the trail head at Livingstone Park.

Taking shape

Trail building is pushing towards the completion of about 10km of trails to be ride ready by Easter. The construction of trails continues concurrently on other Stage 1 and 2 sections.

Fabrication of a significant piece of trail crossover structure, which will allow riders to pass under and over one another on different trails near the swimming pool at the Livingstone Park trail head, is progressing off site ahead of Easter.

Trail map, rider information and trail marker signage will be in place over the coming weeks.

Construction has started on the Oriental Claims Bridge (pictured below). This work is important for the finalisation of the first 10km of trails and links the Oriental Express and Mine Bender trails, creating a loop ride from Livingstone Park to the Oriental Claims and back.

Easter trails milestone

We anticipate that 10 kilometres of the Stage 1 (56km total) trails will be structurally complete by Easter.

We have chosen to have these trails handed over so we can manage and maintain them as locals start to ride them in.

The first 10km do not deliver on the overall promise and experience the trails will bring once fully developed. We anticipate this first 10km ‘taster’ will be predominantly trialled by local riders and includes a blend of fun beginner and intermediate cross-country and gravity trails with great views over Livingstone Creek and Omeo. All can be accessed from the trail head at Livingstone Park.

We will not be actively marketing the trails as open. This will also give us the chance to iron out any teething issues with managing the trails.

This is exciting and new for us all!

The Omeo MTB project was represented at the Omeo Show by Common Ground Trails staff Deon Baker and Jack Richardson and EGSC Project Supervisor, Ian Cameron on Saturday 12 November. Trail maps and images of trails under construction were on display, providing interested community members with an insight into the project overall and the progress to date.

Stage 1

While the recent rain has made for damp on-site conditions, Common Ground have still been able to make good progress and are on track to have stage 1 'ride ready' for Easter 2023.

Stage 1 includes the easy / beginner trails commencing in Livingstone Park and an easy loop connecting to the Oriental Claims. The actual length of trail to be ready for Easter will depend on the site conditions over summer, for example significant rain events or extreme heat days.

A site meeting will be held with all Emergency Services stakeholders to discuss the proposed emergency management for the trail network. Attendees will also inspect and review the current works.

Stage 2

Trail construction of stage 2 has been awarded to Common Ground Trails and the construction schedule is agreed and in place with preliminary works underway in preparation for construction commencement.

Oriental Claims Bridge

The fabrication and construction contract for the Oriental Claims Bridge has commenced with local contract Whelcon Pty Ltd winning the tender. This bridge will be a key element of trail XC3.