First Creswick Trails roll out early

02/08/2024

Shows two riders travelling downhill on a dirt trail, surrounded by gum trees. The rider in the bottom right of the image is slightly blurry due to their speed, and their back wheel is kicking up dust and rocks. The rider in the top left of the image is following them down the trail, leaning to the right as they take a turn in the trail. Mountain bikers with a need for speed and a passion for beautiful bushland vistas can now enjoy the first 32 kilometres of the Creswick Trails project – ahead of schedule.

The full 60 kilometres of biking trails created in bushland near the town of Creswick in central Victoria are on track to open to the public later this year. The trails have been supported by an investment of more than $2.5 million through Regional Development Victoria.

Named Djuwang Baring, meaning ‘long track’ in Dja Dja Wurrung language, the trails wind their way through some of the most beautiful and exciting areas of Dja Dja Wurrung Country. The trails will support the local visitor economy, encouraging more people to experience one of Victoria’s most exciting mountain biking destinations.

Importantly, the trails also offer interpretive signage that celebrates the history and culture of Djaara Traditional Owners. These signs will leave riders with a deeper understanding of Country as they make their way through the trail network.

The Victorian Government’s investment in Djuwang Baring is part of wider funding designed to establish Creswick as a must-visit location for mountain bikers and cyclists.

Rider in the centre of image is in the air between two jumps, wearing a red riding suit and blue helmet, with their bike angled to the right. The bottom of the image shows dirt BMX ramps, while the background of the image shows gum trees surrounding the trail.

A further $2.1 million was provided for the adjoining Hammon Park Trailhead and Bike Park, which opened in 2023. It offers riders of all ages and abilities a place to safely build up their skills before tackling the longer and more challenging trails.

To support Hepburn Shire Council in the creation of a website, signage, and marketing materials that will promote Creswick and draw riders from across Victoria and Australia, an additional $100,000 has been invested through the Council Support Package.

This project is a part of the Victorian Government’s record $45 billion investment over the past decade into projects and programs that support regional and rural Victoria to be an even better place to live, work, stay, and play.

Images courtesy of Hepburn Shire Council.