We’ve noticed a trend in Australia: when they build mountain bike trails, they go big. Instead of merely funding and building tiny pocket parks, we’ve seen numerous massive trail systems come online in the last few years with the potential to redefine outdoor recreation in their respective regions.
The latest: Angry Bull Trails (ABT), based in Tenterfield, New South Wales, has secured an $8.2 million AUD grant from the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program. This major funding, combined with a previous $4.1 million AUD grant from the NSW Government’s Regional Tourism Activation Fund, will fully fund the creation of a world-class 174-kilometer trail system of professionally built mountain bike trails.
The Angry Bulls vision
This ambitious plan includes building a little something for everyone, calling for “flow trails, gravity tracks, and cross-country tracks.”
The most recent $8.2 million AUD in funding will support the development of:
• 58km of back-country trails targeted at thrill-seekers and MTB enthusiasts.
• Trailhead infrastructure including parking, toilets, and signage.
• A competition-level pump track suitable for international events and pro-rider skills training.
• An expanded ABT Trail Centre, featuring training and meeting rooms, an outdoor deck, a disabled access lift, and end-of-trip facilities, creating a true community hub that is fully accessible.
Tenterfield: Population 6,800
Tenterfield is a tiny town of just 6,800 people located three and a half hours from downtown Brisbane. While Brisbane is in the province of Queensland, Tenterfield is located just over the border in New South Wales.
This ambitious project is set to reshape this small community by turning it into an “International Trails Destination Town.”
“The project is projected to attract 35,000 additional visitors annually, generate $10 million AUD in tourism expenditure, and create at least 50 local jobs, with a strong focus on youth employment and training,” according to a press release.
“At Angry Bull Trails, social impact is a cornerstone of our mission,” said ABT Director Joseph Smith. “Beyond building trails and MTB infrastructure, we’re dedicated to creating meaningful training and employment opportunities for local youth.”
Construction timeline
Since the initial funding announcement in May 2023, ABT has been hard at work finalizing designs, conducting ecological and cultural site reviews, and establishing land-use agreements. Construction is slated to begin soon, with Zone 1 and Zone 2 approvals nearing completion.
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