Mountain Biking Event brings a Tourism Boost to the Region
Published on 21 June 2023
Hundreds of mountain biking enthusiasts and their families gathered in Rockhampton for the recent Rocky Trail Academy Schools Competition and the Fox Superflow® Gravity Enduro race, two of the fastest growing mountain bike racing formats held in Rockhampton during winter.
The Rocky Trail Academy Schools Competition held on the Friday attracted 17 schools from across Queensland with entrants coming as far south as Nerang and as far north as the Whitsundays, and is geared towards secondary school students as an initiative to foster Junior Development.
The weekend's Fox Superflow® Gravity Enduro event was established by Rocky Trail Entertainment in 2012 and has evolved into the biggest gravity enduro series in Australia, and is a qualifier for the Enduro World Series.
Parks, Sport and Public Spaces Councillor Cherie Rutherford said that Council recognises the importance of these events to local tourism and the benefits they bring to the local economy. “Council through Advance Rockhampton is focused on supporting local events which support both local organisations and initiatives as well as bring new visitors to our region,” Cr Rutherford said.
“Mountain biking tourism is considered one of the fastest growing recreational activities globally, with AusCycle reporting a $136.9 million direct economic impact to Australia, per annum. “Ultimately, we expect to see around $200,000 being spent in our region over the course of the weekend.”
Rockhampton Region Deputy Mayor Neil Fisher said it was wonderful to see the First Turkey Mountain Biking Park buzzing with not only our local mountain bikers, but also so many visitors who travelled to the region for the event.
“More than 75% of visitors came from outside the region to take part in this event, which is a reflection on the hard work from the event organisers, Rocky Trail Entertainment, and also the Rockhampton Mountain Biking Club for their ongoing maintenance of our world-class trails.
“This event is a great outcome for our region, for local small business and for our local club and mountain bike enthusiasts.”
Advance Rockhampton’s Acting Executive Manager Zac Garven said that as the lead tourism, marketing and major event agency in the region, hosting sporting events form an important part of our Economic Development Strategy.
“Our Economic Development Strategy clearly identifies the benefits and opportunities growing the local visitor economy can bring.
“Advance Rockhampton is proud to work with local clubs, small business and the wider community to showcase the best our region has to offer.”
Rocky Trail Entertainment Founder Juliane Wisata said the weekend was a huge success among participants resulting in a donation of $1,730 to the Rockhampton Mountain Biking Club for trail maintenance and building efforts.
“Overall it was a great weekend and we thank the Rockhampton Regional Council for their support.”
Rocky Trail Entertainment is one of the major mountain bike events companies in Australia. In 2012 they launched the series that now is the Fox Superflow® based on the European and North American enduro races. The Superflow® has established itself as Australia’s most popular and fastest-growing gravity series!
For more information about the Rocky Trail Entertainment Schools and Gravity Enduro Races, visit https://rockytrailsuperflow.com/
For more information on our MTB trails, visit www.riderocky.com.au