Redhead Pumping with New Track
Redhead Beach is pumping mid-winter thanks to a new $450,000 open-air track bringing beachside fun to people of all ages and skill levels.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser cut the ribbon on the new pump track overlooking the surf on Thursday, more than a month ahead of schedule.
“It’s fantastic to see this track open in time for the school holidays,” she said.
“The number of people using it since fences came down last week shows how much demand and appreciation there is for it.”
Community consultation helped shape the track’s design, including berms, rollers and jumps with multiple lines for progression of riding abilities.
The shortest route around the winding circuit measures 134m, while the longer route stretches 158m.
The pump track concept requires riders to push down on the lower part of the route’s undulations and pull up as they go back up the hill, propelling them along.
Lake Macquarie City Council Section Manager Community Assets Rob Morris said the Redhead track was suitable for bikes, scooters and skateboards.
“We engaged pump track specialists Velosolutions to undertake this project and we’re thrilled with the result,” he said.
“We’ve already had a lot of positive feedback from local families. Another big positive was being able to carry out the project with no disturbance to the vegetated area between the new track and the lower car park.”
The new facility includes shaded seating, a bubbler and a bike repair station, with a tyre pump and various tools needed to make bike adjustments.
“It’s the first time we’ve installed a station like this in Lake Macquarie,” Mr Morris said.
“We’re hopeful the community will use it and respect it, and that it provides lasting use to people visiting the new track.”
Pump track funding came from Section 7.11 Charlestown contribution funds.
The project also includes a $400,000 upgrade to the Redhead Beach car park and adjoining Beach Road, funded by the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
