Popular new bike track pedals road safety message

Published: 20 August 2021. (Note: information was correct at date of publication but may have since been changed or superseded.)

A recently opened bike safety track complete with miniature versions of common street signs is proving popular with young riders.

The Learn to Ride Road Safety Training Track at the Moody Creek Detention Basin is the first open-to-the-public track of its kind in Cairns.

It complements the neighbouring pump track by providing a safe environment to enable informal learning for children and those new to cycling, as well as formal training by cycle training organisations.

Division 4 Councillor Terry James said he had approached Council officers about the prospect of constructing the track after watching younger children struggling to share the existing track with older, more experienced users.

“I was watching children at the pump track and noticed that the younger users were a little apprehensive about sharing the facility with the older riders cruising around,” Cr James said.

“I talked to Council officers about the possibility of doing something for the younger children and the result is the safety track, which is already very popular with families.

“The track has been designed help young riders become aware of people and things around them and expose them to road markings, signs, and pedestrian crossings in the safety of a miniature streetscape.

“It is the perfect place for getting used to riding with anything with wheels – trikes, bikes, skateboards, scooters and balance bikes – in a safe environment.”

Council is currently asking for community feedback on the city’s favourite off road pathways through the Let's Roll Cairns project, which aims to promote safe and family-friendly pathways.

Residents can submit their favourite family-friendly riding route visit the Have Your Say page or email directly to [email protected] before 6 September 2021.