World cycling event moves closer
A BUNBURY teenager's dream of international standard open air cycling and skate tracks in Greater Bunbury is a step closer after he secured land for the project.
South West Cycle Club member Bryce Lanigan, 15, had his proposal for a non-motorised wheel sports racing and training facility accepted by Dardanup Shire Council on February 18.
The 7.5ha site will be in Waterloo and the proposal includes a criterium track, mountain bike skills loop, pump track, mountain bike playground, speed skating bank track and a track designed for beginners.
Bryce said he hoped to bring international cycling events to the South West and create opportunities for cyclists in Greater Bunbury.
"It would be great if we could bring events like the Oceania Track Championships to the South West," he said.
"The idea came during a school project and it has grown after I spoke at TedxBunbury last year."
Bryce said funding was needed to progress to the next part of the project and he would be looking for grants from the Department of Sport and Recreation as well as Lotterywest.
"I've had support from John Castrilli and Mick Murray and letters of support from Worsley and BHP Billiton, they really want to see it go forward.
"It's hard to give an accurate estimation about when the facility will be open."
Dardanup shire president Mick Bennett said the project was an "extremely exciting prospect" for the Dardanup shire and it could potentially attract an international spotlight to the region.
"The council has been very supportive of this proposal since first becoming aware of it, providing letters of support for its further development," he said.
"Securing of land is integral to the proposal and council looks forward to seeing how it develops from here."
Cr Bennett said Bryce's initial proposal was for a 4ha site on Martin Pelusey Road, but he suggested the Waterloo site because it had more room for growth.
Bryce said he wanted to support regional elite athletes and developing riders and skaters to pursue their goals within the South West.
"I want it to act as a healthy, social hub for the community to exercise in a safe and convenient environment," he said.
A talented rider, Bryce has competed for WA in road cycling and mountain bike riding.
His brother Jaiden, 17, has represented WA in speed skating.
