A draft masterplan outlining how the Mogo region can be transformed into a world-class destination for mountain biking is currently on display for public comment.

Developed by renowned mountain biking experts Dirt Art on behalf of Eurobodalla Council, the masterplan presents Mogo as an ideal base and epicentre for a nationally-significant mountain biking trail network and event precinct.

It identifies a 155km trail network, comprising about 125km of new trail and formalisation of the 30km of existing mountain bike trails in Mogo State Forest and Deep Creek Dam. The network would link directly into Mogo village and Batehaven, making it highly accessible.

Dirt Art states the trails network has the potential to attract 45,000 visitors to Eurobodalla in its first year of operation, resulting in an estimated $11.8 million injection to the local economy.

Council’s planning director Lindsay Usher said the project had real potential to assist the shire’s economic recovery following the bushfires and COVID-19.

“The draft masterplan shows that there is a whole lot to be gained in capturing what is a steadily growing market of mountain bike enthusiasts, who flock to organised events and seek out adventurous trail networks,” he said.

“We have a genuine opportunity to create a world-class mountain bike trail centre that will attract visitors from across NSW and around Australia.”

Council staff are currently looking at potential opportunities and the development of an investment prospectus to support trail development, maintenance and broader value-added investment opportunities in the village of Mogo.

Council staff will hold a community drop-in session at John Street Reserve in Mogo on Saturday 26 September, from 10am-1pm, where residents and business operators can talk to Council staff about the draft plan.

Community members can view and provide their feedback on the draft Mogo Adventure Trails Hub Masterplan until Thursday 15 October.