I express my support for a discussion paper on mountain biking that has been circulated by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. My submission in support of the proposal will form part of my speech, which I hope will draw the issue to the attention of Parliament. As the parliamentary member for Manly, I represent the many people in my community who appreciate the electorate's stunning natural environment. I certainly recognise a need to protect it for many generations to come. I represent many people who enjoy leading an active and healthy life. My strong belief is that the objectives of environmental protection and an active health lifestyle are not exclusive. My belief has been driven by active involvement in the issue and my support for the National Parks and Wildlife Service's initiatives, which include the discussion paper.

Mountain biking is an activity that is increasing in popularity, not just on the Northern Beaches but across the State. It is estimated that 10,000 people in Manly participate in mountain biking. Popularity of the activity is rapidly increasing. It is pleasing that the National Parks and Wildlife Service has acknowledged the increasing popularity of mountain biking and that it is proactively encouraging sustainable mountain biking in the State's national parks and reserves. In mid 2009 I became aware of the need for more facilities to meet the increase in popularity of mountain biking. At the time there was confusion surrounding where mountain bikers could ride, owing to a lack of designated trails. Consequently, there was justifiable concern that environmental damage was being caused.

I met with many local mountain bikers and many environmental groups. Although there were differing perspectives, both were united in their passion for the environment that surrounds us. The concern I held at that particular time was that the approach of locking people out and forbidding entry as a method of environmental protection was inappropriate. In my opinion, the better approach was for sustainable tracks to be made available and for everyone to work together to preserve and maintain them so that bikers would have reason to prefer them, take ownership of them, and look after them. It will be a win-win situation if the environment is protected and access to this enjoyable pursuit is protected for future generations. This incredibly worthy cause will be useful not only in promoting a healthy lifestyle sport but also in providing access to our wonderful national parks.

I have received an enormous quantity of correspondence in relation to this issue. I thank the many residents in my community who took the time to share their views and express their hope for a win-win solution. I genuinely believe that we are on the cusp of an incredible win-win solution. Last year I requested a meeting with the then Minister for the Environment, Carmel Tebbutt, and I commend her for her open-minded and pragmatic approach to the issue. During the meeting, both groups presented their views with passion. The Minister recognised the need to resolve tensions at Garigal National Park as a matter of priority.

The community was encouraged when the northern beaches was chosen as a pilot area to improve sustainable mountain biking across the State. I am proud that through the consultations that followed the contribution of the residents on the northern beaches has helped to drive this discussion paper and the strategy of sustainable mountain biking statewide. Although the paper has been some time in coming, and the timing has caused frustration, I am confident that it is the first tangible step in many to create more sustainable trails. That will put environmental protection at the forefront, and provide access to trails on which mountain bikers are so keen.

As noted in the discussion paper, the success of pilot projects at Glenrock State conservation area and the Royal National Park should be examined so that they can be replicated in other areas. That is key. Let us look at where it works well, where the community provides access to sustainable tracks with consensus support and protection of our environment. Obviously we should import practices from areas that are doing well. Keeping both mountain bikers and environmental groups engaged in this process is essential. A lack of consultation and a breakdown in communication led to flashpoints and unnecessary tension. I reflect on a specific meeting I attended; as people argued, one after another, the common thread throughout was, "Why don't we work together on this?" Progress has been made in that regard.

Indeed, I remember one resident calling me all the names under the sun in relation to this issue. When he saw me recently he said, "You know what? It's actually working." That gives me confidence about the outcome of the consultation process. In terms of engagement, I say to all stakeholders, "Let's work on the progress we have made. Let's see if we can finally achieve the outcome that all parties have been working for." The National Parks and Wildlife Service should be commended for its constructive approach to this issue. It is a significant victory for common sense. I hope that as this policy is implemented there will be more designated sustainable trails through our national parks and reserves, protected and enjoyed for many generations to come. 

Mike Baird MP for Manly Sydney

www.mikebaird.com.au
Address: Shop 2, 2 Wentworth Street Manly NSW 2095
Phone: (02) 9976 2773

Email: manly@parliament.nsw.gov.au

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