Aussie cycling star puts name to new shared track

10 January 2012

The soon-to-be-built Tanunda to Gawler shared bicycle and walking path in South Australia’s Barossa Valley region is set to inspire young and old after being named after one of Australia’s rising stars of cycling, Jack Bobridge.

The new Jack Bobridge Track will be a major infrastructure upgrade for the Barossa and Gawler regions and will make a significant long-term contribution to growing the regional economy.

Barossa Council Mayor Brian Hurn said that it was especially relevant that Mr Bobridge was being linked with the track given his rising status on the world cycling scene and the long-term presence of his family in the area.

Mr Bobridge expressed his gratitude upon hearing the news of the decision.

“I hope that the naming of the track and any future cycling honours that might come my way will inspire young Australians to take up cycling either on a competitive or recreational basis, to improve their fitness and reach their potential,” Mr Bobridge said.

Upon completion in 2012, the 27 kilometre path will service a growing proportion of the region’s population by providing a safe and viable transport route. The shared path will support travel for a range of community groups, including those who do not own a car, are aged or disabled.

The Barossa region has established a reputation as a cycle-friendly tourist area and is fast becoming a destination of choice for recreational cyclists and cyclists on holiday.

The Australian Government will contribute $4.8 million from the Regional Development Australia Fund towards the $5.4 million project.

CEO of RDA Barossa Anne Moroney said the project is strongly aligned with the regional roadmap of RDA Barossa and will form a link in what will eventually become a cycling path from Southern Flinders to Willunga.

“The Jack Bobridge Track will be a great tourism and recreation asset to Gawler and Barossa by supporting growth in local tourism and small business activity,” Ms Moroney said.

“It will provide a safe route for people to cycle to and from work and also a place families can exercise together, thus improving the overall well being of the community.”

To find out more about RDA Barossa visit their website.