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NEWS
Trail Riders in WA
Western Australia’ s Southern Forests region has taken another step towards becoming a major destination for trail and adventure riders, with the official opening of the first two stages of the Manjimup Trail Bike Hub held on 23 September 2026.
Developed by the Shire of Manjimup in collaboration with Manjimup Trail Bike Hub Inc., the project is designed to establish Manjimup as a significant destination for trail bike recreation and adventure tourism, while providing riders with a network of sanctioned and curated routes through the surrounding forests and regional roads.
Stages 1 and 2 formed the foundation of the broader five-stage project and were already operating when they were officially opened. Stage 1 was developed around adventure bike riding, while Stage 2 catered for trail bike tourers. Both were supported by mapping, rider information and the Manjimup Trail Bike Hub Centre at 51 Mottram Street.
The remaining stages are intended to broaden the riding opportunities further. Stage 3 is planned around a private property opportunity, Stage 4 will focus on single-track riding, and Stage 5 will cater for family explorers.
The project has attracted substantial government and community investment. Funding delivered to date included $ 980,000 from the Australian Government through the Regional Recovery Partnership Program, $ 576,500 from the Shire of Manjimup towards Stages 1 and 2, and $ 67,141 through the Native Forestry Transition Program Community Small Grant Fund Round 2 to Manjimup Trail Bike Hub Inc. Further Western Australian Government funding has also been secured to assist with the delivery of Stages 4 and 5. According to the Shire, once the later stages are completed, the Hub is projected to attract more than 33,600 visitors annually. That additional visitation is expected to generate expenditure across the local economy, benefiting accommodation providers, hospitality businesses, retailers, tourism operators and motorcycle-related businesses.
The project also built on Manjimup’ s long association with off-road motorcycling and motocross. The concept was first identified by the Shire in 2015 and subsequently progressed through feasibility work, rider consultation and community involvement, with ongoing collaboration between the Shire, Manjimup Trail Bike Hub Inc. and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
Shire President Donelle Buegge said the opening marked an important achievement for the community.
“ The official opening of Stages 1 and 2 of the Manjimup Trail Bike Hub is an exciting milestone for our community and a celebration of what has been achieved through strong collaboration between the Shire of Manjimup, Manjimup Trail Bike Hub Inc. and the trail bike community,” Buegge said.
“ Stages 1 and 2 are providing riders with curated and sanctioned routes through the Southern Forests, supported by information and facilities that encourage safe, sustainable and responsible riding, while also creating opportunities for local businesses, volunteers and visitors to experience everything our region has to offer.”
Manjimup Trail Bike Hub Inc. president Sam Karamfiles said the project had been several years in the making.
“ The Manjimup Trail Bike Hub has been shaped by years of planning, consultation and community support, including the ongoing contribution of Manjimup Trail Bike Hub Inc.,” Karamfiles said.
“ The opening of Stages 1 and 2 recognises the work already delivered and the important role that the Hub is playing in strengthening our local tourism economy.”
The official opening was held at the Manjimup Trail Bike Hub Centre on 23 September, with a separate community event organised by Manjimup Trail Bike Hub Inc. taking place later that day.
With its first two stages now established and further single-track and family-focused riding opportunities planned, the Manjimup Trail Bike Hub represents a significant investment in motorcycle tourism in the Southern Forests, giving riders another reason to point their front wheels towards Manjimup. TRAVERSE
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