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First Turkey MTB gets green light for an exciting future

Photo from Rocky MTB Facebook Page

What’s Happening?

The First Turkey Mountain Bike Reserve Master Plan has been unanimously supported by the Rockhampton Regional Council in their January 2025 meeting.

This important step sees the next stage of the Reserve, with a trailhead incorporating modern facilities, an adaptive trail circuit, and a signature 600-metre flow trail from Mount Archer to First Turkey.

The Rockhampton Mountain Bike Club has been the driving force for this projectleading the way on making Rockhampton a nationally recognized off-road cycling destination.

Who is the Rockhampton MTB Club?

Since its establishment in 2005, the Rockhampton Mountain Bike Club (RMBC) has grown from a local grassroots movement to the regionstrongest voice for off-road cycling. 

Today, the club oversees more than 40km of trails across 150 hectares within the First Turkey Mountain Bike Reserve, supporting all levels of riders—from green trails suitable for beginners to black gravity trails for expert riders

Thanks to the hard work of near 200 active members, the club works on maintaining the Reserve with more than 200 volunteer hours each quarter, ensuring accessibility and safety for riders.

The vision of the club also supports AusCyclingacknowledgment of Rockhampton as an off-road cycling destination of regional importance, with plans to gain national status. RMBC President saidThis Master Plan recognizes a point of difference in positioning First Turkey as a high-end destination. Its not only about the trails—its about tourismcommunity, and sustainability.”

 

Photo courtesy of Australian Mountain Bike Magazine and AusCycling

Why it Matters?

Mountain biking is increasing across the country, with Rockhampton experiencing record growth in participation.

The Master Plan aims to improve the rider experience while promoting economic, recreational, and social advantages

One survey participant saidMountain biking is a great tourist drawcard, and we need better facilities to keep bringing events to the area.” 

The plan ensures First Turkey is a foundation of local recreation while becoming a tourism magnet for the nation and overseas.

Local Impact

  • Trailhead Development: Facilities such as toilets, a bike wash, and a pump track will establish a family-friendly hub. Having appropriate facilities at the trailhead will make it more accessible and safer for all, including families and event organisers,” a local rider said.
  • Adaptive Trail Circuit: Central Queensland‘s firstthe circuit will offer riders with disabilities accessAdaptive trails enable inclusion, enabling people with mobility impairments to enjoy mountain biking,” a club representative stated.
  • Signature Flow Trail: A 600-metre descent from Mount Archer to First Turkey will attract riders nationally and internationally, boosting tourism and the economy.
Photo from Rocky MTB Facebook page

By the Numbers:

  • The First Turkey MTB Reserve spans 150 hectares and welcomes over 15,000 visitors annually.
  • 200 volunteer hours are logged quarterly to maintain the trails.
  • The club currently boasts nearly 200 active members, the club’s highest-ever membership.

Zoom In

Why the upgrades? Community consultation and input identified the necessity for major amenities to cater for the increasing number of riders.

Toilets, change rooms, and skills parks were called out as necessary to enhance accessibility and build the ReserveattractionAs a female rider, having toilets while riding would make it so much safer and more practical,” one respondent explained.

Photo from Rocky MTB Facebook page

Zoom Out

First Turkeygrowth mirrors wider trends in off-road cycling tourism, generating over $530 million a year for Queenslands economy.

With nothing similar within 400km, First Turkey is uniquely placed to become a regional focus for off-road cycling. Rockhampton MTB Club wants to put the Reserve on par with Australian icons such as Finch Hatton and Narooma.

What to Look For Next?

Comprehensive community and resident consultation will ensure that the Master Plan is in keeping with local aspirations and concerns. 

Planning, finance discussions, and coordination with Rockhampton Regional Council and Advance Rockhampton will inform Stage 1implementationsuch as trailhead construction and adaptive trail circuit.

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