Mogo Trails Network roars into life with official opening
Saturday 5th July saw the official opening of the Mogo Trails Network, the Mogo Community Hub and the Mogo Pump Track. Those assembled for the day
Were Welcomed to Country by Uncle Sam (AKA Andrew Nye), official speeches and a moving address by Mogo Chamber of Commerce President Richard Adams acknowledging the many people and groups that had made it all a reality.
“The Mogo trails are another jewel in the crown of NSW’s South East, adding a world-class mountain biking network that showcases our region’s beautiful natural landscapes said Minister for the Illawarra and South Coast Ryan Park.
“It’s fantastic to see the network already unlocking new opportunities for local tourism and hospitality businesses, with thousands of visitors expected to hit the trails every year.”
This 125-kilometre trail network now winds through the scenic bushland of Mogo, stretching behind Batehaven and out towards Mount Wandera.
Mogo Trails is funded by $5 million from the Australian and NSW Government’s Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund and $3 million in additional NSW Government funding. The trails were developed in collaboration with the landowner, Forestry Corporation of NSW.
Led by Eurobodalla Shire Council the project includes 72-purpose built trails for all skill levels, from beginner green trails to advanced double black runs for thrill-seekers.
Combined with existing trail networks in Narooma and Eden, the opening of Mogo Trails brings the region’s total offering to an impressive 250 kilometres of world-class mountain biking
The regional trail network is expected to draw around 60,000 visitors annually, with local tourism and hospitality businesses already seeing the financial benefits.
Dr Michael Holland Member for Bega said : “The NSW South Coast in the electorate of Bega is the State’s premier mountain biking destination. With a further 125 kilometres of adventure mountain biking trails, Mogo Trails links the network of mountain bike venues from Batemans Bay to Eden.
“The Mogo Trails is perfectly linked with services, hospitality, accommodation, and experience providers. It provides interaction between people, our beautiful natural environment, and our local economy.
It is wonderful to witness the rejuvenation and recovery of our communities following the 2019-2020 bushfire disaster being delivered in collaboration with the Commonwealth and NSW Governments, the Mogo Village Business Chamber and Eurobodalla Shire Council.”
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said “It’s great to see the Mogo Trails open to support local jobs and attract more visitors to experience what this amazing region has to offer.
“Through our joint investment, the Australian and NSW Governments have partnered to help ensure long-term recovery for Mogo that sees the community thrive after the devastating impact of Black Summer.
“With hundreds of kilometres available for beginners to advanced riders, this project puts some of the best South Coast landscapes on display for travellers and locals, helping to strengthen communities.
“I really encourage people to try and visit Mogo and experience some of the world-
class trails and facilities, and I’d like to congratulate everyone involved with this project – this is an achievement that they can be incredibly proud of.”
“What started out as the vision of a group of avid mountain bike enthusiasts is now a reality and we have a truly epic facility that will be enjoyed by locals as well as visitors to our area” said Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips.
“Riding the trails through our stunning forests offers a great way for families to enjoy the outdoors, and for the community to come together – no matter their mountain biking ability.”
“I love mountain bike riding, and I’ve already had an opportunity to get dusty and test my skills on the thrilling ‘Wild Wombat’ and ‘Cosmic Thunder’ trails.”
“Mogo was absolutely devastated by the Black Summer Bushfires, and this marks another milestone in the town’s social and economic recovery.”
“I’m so proud to have supported such a wonderful attraction that will be a huge boost for local businesses and the Eurobodalla economy with events like the inaugural Sea Otter Australia extravaganza happening in October.”
Eurobodalla Mayor Mathew Hatcher described the project as a “game-changer – not just for Mogo, but for our whole region. We set out to create an international-calibre trail network and we’ve absolutely delivered.
“The local response has been huge. We’ve had riders here since the early stages, and now with the full network open, the energy and excitement in town is next level.”
“We’re already seeing the benefits roll in for local businesses – cafés are buzzing, accommodation’s full, and Mogo’s village is alive with visitors. This is what regional regeneration looks like.”
