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Construction progresses on new trail sections at Omeo Mountain Bike Park by Common Ground Trails

Common Ground Trails advances construction on new trail sections at Omeo Mountain Bike Park, emphasising safety and ongoing maintenance efforts with dedicated trail crews.

By news@gippsland - 31st May 2024 - Back to News

The Common Ground Trails team has made the most of good shovel-work weather to power through an impressive stretch of single trail kilometres since our last update. The team has commenced construction of a new section of flow trail - the Intermediate-rated GR2 aka the lower bit of Flomeo. Construction of XC15 Down has now begun - with the trail builders starting at the top of Sam Hill and working their way down the back of the peak.

Omeo Mountain Bike Park trail maintenance officers Jack Boldiston (left) and Jack Richardson (right)

Ready to ride

Omeo Mountain Bike Park is already a great place to spend a weekend on two wheels. Lock out the suspension and shift into the 40-sprocket then take on our first Blue-rated climb up Mt Mesley via Billygoat trail (formerly known as El Buro) then catch your breath before sending it down Crikey trail (formerly known as Bermnanza).

There are a number of steep switchback berms on the Crikey descent, so please consider your riding ability before taking on this loop. If you have little ones in tow, park your car at the Oriental Claims carpark.

From there, you can explore a 3km loop on the Pioneer trail, which is all climbing, followed by a Green-rated descent. Then you can tack on the 2km Sluice and Water Race loop if the young ones are still full of beans.

Ride safely, follow signs

Want more? Start at the Livingstone Park trailhead and make your way along Oriental Express adding in the above green loops before you make your way back to the start via Mine Bender. Our crews have spotted riders using closed trails in active construction areas. While we love your enthusiasm, riding on unfinished trails involves significant collision risks with machinery - including active excavators - and with trail testers.

There is also a real potential for rock falls if you cross an unfinished section. In addition, unopened trails are not yet signposted - making locating an injured rider difficult in the event of an emergency. So check out the map above, observe signage on the trails and stay safe.
Riders are asked to avoid areas marked as construction sites.

Making sure that 8 is great

Common Ground Trails' Natural Space Design team recently spent time at the Omeo site to walk the proposed XC8 course and check the proposed alignment for the 5.1km XC8 Out - an adventure loop up Dry Gully.

The route will take riders through some epic terrain via some spectacular rock outcrops. It's going to take some technical building to get the trail through the terrain, but the result will be an amazing backcountry adventure experience.

The Natural Space Design team conducted a feasibility study and will draw up a detailed concept and design. Globally renowned trail designers World Trail - which has Enduro World Series, UCI World Championship courses on its resume - drew up a masterplan for the area several years ago, and Common Ground's Natural Space Design team is bringing that plan to life.

Like, follow, post, ride

Remember to sign up to our new Ride Omeo Facebook and Instagram pages for the latest updates in the town and on the trails. We've ticked over 1000 followers across the platforms and that number is growing fast.

Hit Like and join the discussion about the latest trail news and park upgrades. And remember to tag us or hashtag #RideOmeo when you post your ride photos, ride write-ups and trail tips. We've lifted the lid on our new loos.

Our construction crew has transformed the Livingstone Park amenities block. It now boasts four freshly minted, accessible toilet cubicles, spacious changing rooms and four showers - ideal for a rejuvenating and refreshing post-ride scrub - perfect for washing away the toughest of trail dust before a well-earned beer or bite at one of the many nearby pubs and eateries.

New trail crew arrives

Omeo Mountain Bike Park now has a dedicated team for trail maintenance. Jack Boldiston and Jack Richardson are already hard at work, ensuring that the park's trails remain accessible, safe and enjoyable for all - and we have a third trail maintenance member joining soon. Their trail maintenance work will include:

• Trail grooming - maintaining the trail corridor and clearing debris. This improves rider visibility, minimises vegetation impact and encourages people to stick to the trails
• Clearing - pruning and sawing trees along the trails to a safe height and width to make sure riders don't connect heads or shoulders with branches.
  Trail repair - modifying the trail surfaces to enhance drainage, addressing ruts and continually working to improve safety

New trail officers

We had a chat with Jack Richardson and Jack Boldiston about their new roles. What attracted you both to the role of trail maintenance officers in Omeo?

Jack R: To work locally and help the community to keep the town growing.

Jack B: For as long as I can remember, I've been riding push bikes, whether it was mountain, road, gravel, or BMX. After riding for so long, I knew it was going to be a lifetime hobby. I thought it would be cool to be able to make it my full-time job.

First project plans

Is there an initial project that yourself and Jack will be working on, such as trail work or remediation?

Jack R: Right now, from a maintenance perspective, we're focusing on getting on top of the current 22-kilometre network that is open.
Could you share some insights into your background and how it has prepared you for the challenges of trail maintenance and safety?

Jack B: I have had experience in trail maintenance through volunteering at my local mountain bike club, whether it be for events such as the Shifty Fifty [a mass-participation Victorian mountain bike series] or just general maintenance for the community and club members.
"I was particularly interested in applying for a job in Omeo just for the fact it is in such a prime spot for riding." - Jack Boldiston

Community collaboration plans

How do you envision collaborating with community members to enhance the user experience in the Omeo area?

Jack B: In the weeks I've spent living here I've already been on a few social rides with locals. I've heard people's thoughts and experiences on the trail network and what they'd like to see happen in the park. Experiences like these help us to shape and form the future of the park for the locals and the broader bike riding community.

Trail familiarisation progress

Have you had a chance to familiarise yourself with the local trails and their maintenance needs?

Jack R: In my former role with Common Ground Trail, which is constructing these trails, I had the opportunity to ride in and out on the trails on a daily basis - so, yes, I've had a sneak peek!

"The trails I've ridden I rate as a 10/10. I can't wait for more tracks to open up! Omeo and the region will have a fantastic asset once completed." - Jack Richardson

Flow in the know

The team from online magazine Flow Mountain Bike recently sampled Omeo's trails. Flow General Manager and writer Jono Wade had a blast, writing in a recent article: "The little bit that we rode was unreal, and it's going to be pretty incredible when it's all open."

Read more at Flow Mountain Bike website.

Pictures from East Gippsland Shire Council website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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• South Gippsland Shire Council wishes everyone a merry Christmas and a happy new year and other council updates
  South Gippsland Shire Council wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, highlights skatepark opening, Australia Day awards, community programs, seasonal bin changes, and upcoming events.
• Farm World 2026 at Lardner Park: Ag exhibitions, motocross, rodeo, animals, food, and family fun
  Farm World 2026 at Lardner Park features motocross, rodeo, animal encounters, ag exhibits, hands-on farming experiences, food and drink, and family-friendly activities, celebrating Victoria’s largest regional agricultural event.
• Baw Baw Library and Learning Centre reaches milestone with early works contract awarded to Becon Constructions
  Baw Baw Shire Council advances its new Library and Learning Centre project with early works awarded to Becon Constructions, marking progress on site preparation and infrastructure for the $30 million development.
• South Gippsland Shire Council seeks community feedback on two proposed accessible locations for new toilet facilities in Nyora's RSL Park
  South Gippsland Shire Council invites feedback on two proposed Nyora RSL Park toilet locations, offering improved safety, accessibility, and amenities. Submissions close Sunday, 12 October 2025.
• Baw Baw Shire Council secures $500k funding for Longwarry multi-sport pavilion upgrade project construction announcement
  Baw Baw Shire secures $500,000 State funding for Longwarry Recreation Reserve multi-sport pavilion supporting football, netball, cricket and community facilities.
• Latrobe Health Assembly to continue, thanks to strong community support and new independent, community-owned future
  Defunded in the 2025 State Budget, the Latrobe Health Assembly will continue as a leaner, community-owned organisation tackling local health and wellbeing challenges through collaboration and grassroots leadership.
• Darren Chester says Krauatungalung Walk project progresses after EGSC and GLAWAC meetings this week
  Federal MP Darren Chester says the Krauatungalung Walk project is back on track, with boardwalk works underway, Indigenous artworks planned, and completion aimed by Christmas to benefit locals and visitors.
• East Gippsland Council accepts $4.255M Commonwealth funding to progress Gippsland Lakes Shared Community Hub
  East Gippsland Council has accepted $4.255 million Commonwealth funding to progress the Gippsland Lakes Shared Community Hub, finalising designs and preparing to tender construction for Paynesville lakeside community facility.
• Yarragon stalwart honoured as Rollo Street Park renamed Angela Malacarne Park community tribute
  Baw Baw Shire Council renamed Rollo Street Park to Angela Malacarne Park, honouring longtime teacher. The redeveloped Yarragon site reopened March 21, unveiling new features with family, councillors and Harriet Shing attending.
• Australia’s under-16 social media ban sparks digital ID, privacy and freedom concerns ahead of implementation
  Australia’s Under-16 social media ban will require age verification on major platforms, raising serious concerns about privacy, Digital ID rollout, and government surveillance disguised as online safety measures.
• Latrobe City Council enhances Seymour Street Car Park safety, lighting, access, and parking experience
  Latrobe City Council upgrades Seymour Street Car Park with improved lighting, safety measures, CCTV, and future real-time signage, ensuring accessible, secure all-day parking and enhanced confidence for CBD workers and visitors.
• Latrobe City invites community feedback on draft 2026-27 Budget supporting infrastructure, grants and new FOGO waste service by 25 May 2026
  Latrobe City invites community feedback on its 2026/27 Draft Budget, supporting infrastructure, public spaces, grants, and FOGO service, with major local projects included.
• Community feedback supports retaining Moe Gardens Caravan Park as affordable short-stay accommodation in Latrobe City
  Latrobe City Council received 223 community submissions supporting Moe Gardens Caravan Park’s retention as low-cost accommodation, with a report on its future to return to Council February 2026.
• Indigenous artist Lionel Rose Junior honoured for Warragul Station Park artwork celebrating culture, community and family legacy
  Indigenous artist Lionel Rose Junior's cockatoo design now features in Warragul Station Park, honouring Kurnai and Gunditjmara heritage, community ties, and his family legacy alongside uncle Lionel Rose's iconic statue.
• Martin Cameron urges Energy Minister to lift outdated coal overlays blocking 2000 new homes in Traralgon
  Nationals MP Martin Cameron criticised Minister Lily D'Ambrosio for refusing to review outdated coal overlays blocking 2000 new homes in Traralgon, despite studies confirming land stability for development.
• Bass Coast Shire Council pop-up sessions on four local playspace upgrades and proposed new designs on 13 Jan 2026
  Bass Coast Council is upgrading four playspaces in Wonthaggi, Cape Paterson, and Ventnor, inviting community feedback on two design options via Engage Bass Coast and January pop-up sessions.
• Drouin’s Commercial Place precinct to get $1.1M upgrades, enhancing safety, accessibility, streetscape and supporting local businesses
  Construction on Drouin’s $1.1 million Commercial Place precinct upgrade begins October 2025, improving safety, accessibility, streetscape, pedestrian crossings, laneways, lighting, greenery, and community usability, completing mid-2026.
• Gilsenan Reserve in Paynesville to gain modern, accessible public toilets supporting playground, skate park, and markets
  Paynesville’s Gilsenan Reserve will get modern, accessible public toilets by June 2026, supporting playground, skate park, and market users, while ensuring minimal disruption and ongoing community updates during construction.
• West Gippsland CMA’s annual report showcases environmental achievements from mountain headwaters to coastal waters
  West Gippsland CMA’s Annual Report highlights major 2024–25 achievements restoring rivers, wetlands and habitats, supporting communities, protecting wildlife, and strengthening catchment health from mountain headwaters to the coast.
• Heyfield Wetlands visitors can now refill bottles and provide water for dogs using new fountain
  Heyfield Wetlands receives new drinking fountain, supporting community recreation, hydration, pets and Gippsland Water’s broader public refill network initiative.
• Mallacoota community invited to share ideas for long-term future of Foreshore Holiday Park drop-in sessions on 10 and 13 April 2026
  Mallacoota residents and park users are invited to informal drop-in sessions to share feedback, helping shape the Mallacoota Foreshore Holiday Park master plan and guide its future improvements.
• Allan Labor government backs First Nations athletes in Eastern Victoria with new sports grants
  The Allan Labor government has announced over $67,000 in Aboriginal Sport Participation Grants, supporting First Nations athletes in Eastern Victoria with travel, uniforms, and equipment to compete locally and nationally.
• Warragul pump track underway, delivering family-friendly cycling facility for all skill levels and recreation
  Warragul first pump track is under construction at Burke Street Park, offering a family-friendly cycling facility for all ages and skill levels, supported by council and state government funding.
• Danny O'Brien slams Labor for funding maintenance at Sale College instead of new campus
  Danny O'Brien has criticised Labor for allocating $273,175 in maintenance to Sale College, arguing funds should instead deliver the long-promised new consolidated campus the community has campaigned for since 2017.
• Season’s greetings to East Gippsland residents with wishes for a joyful Christmas and prosperous New Year
  Wishing East Gippsland residents a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, with gratitude to service workers, reminders for festive safety, and hopes for connection, kindness, and a prosperous 2026.
• Darren Chester congratulates Hillywood Tree Nursery on expanding Gippsland-grown business with new online store
  Hillywood Tree Nursery in Briagolong has launched an online store, expanding access to Gippsland-grown plants. Darren Chester praised owner Ed Mosley for fostering innovation, sustainability, and local job growth in horticulture.
• East Gippsland Council advances regional projects, boosting infrastructure, accessibility, recreation, resilience and growth
  East Gippsland Council progresses major projects, enhancing community facilities, infrastructure, accessibility, resilience, and recreational opportunities across Bairnsdale, Buchan, Mallacoota, Cann River, Paynesville, and surrounding areas.
• Latrobe City Council seeks community feedback on the future of Moe Gardens Caravan Park as lease nears end
  Latrobe City Council is inviting community feedback on the future of Moe Gardens Caravan Park, with the current operator's lease expiring in May 2026 under Crown Land Leasing Policy requirements for open and impartial processes.
• Baw Baw Shire Council welcomes $250,000 funding to upgrade Noojee Heritage Centre precinct and rail trail
  Baw Baw Shire Council welcomes $250,000 funding for Noojee Heritage Centre precinct upgrades, supporting rail trail access, tourism infrastructure and local transition initiatives under the Forestry Transition Program.
• Latrobe City Council welcomes Shred Fest free skate celebration at Moe Skate Park 18 April 2026
  Latrobe City Council welcomes Shred Fest at Moe Skate Park on April 18, 10am–5pm, featuring Nike Skateboarding pros, workshops, demonstrations, competitions, entertainment, free activities, and food for all ages.
• Be enchanted by magical vistas overlooking a winding river and forested gorge in stunning Tyers Park
  Discover Peterson's Lookout in Tyers Park, a short walk leading to breathtaking gorge and river views. Enjoy golden-hour scenery, nearby trails, wineries, eateries, and cultural attractions for a perfect Gippsland getaway.
• East Gippsland Shire Council issues additional ferry passes for Raymond Island landowners and renters ahead of new system
  East Gippsland Council will mail additional 2025/26 ferry passes to Raymond Island landowners and renters, ensuring fairness while developing a new sticker-based pass system launching August 2026.
• Darren Chester prioritises national food and fibre security, supporting farmers, fisheries, forestry and local industry resilience through strategy
  New Shadow Minister Darren Chester will prioritise national food and fibre security, supporting farmers, fishers, forestry, and local communities through strategic investments, policy reforms, and protection of prime agricultural land.
• CFA faces critical staffing shortages in Gippsland as Labor government fails to act before dangerous fire season
  A new report reveals serious CFA staffing shortages in Gippsland, with vacancies, fatigue, and leadership gaps risking slower responses this dangerous fire season. Labor must act urgently.
• Melina Bath urges Labor Minister to reinstate Latrobe Valley town bus timetable after changes as commuters report major daily disruptions
  The new Latrobe Valley PTV bus timetable has disrupted access to essential services, prompting Nationals’ Melina Bath to request reinstating the previous schedule to better serve commuters, students, and vulnerable residents.
• Baw Baw Shire Council and community celebrate official opening of Gladys Sanderson Park in Noojee
  Baw Baw Shire Council and the community officially opened Gladys Sanderson Park in Noojee, honoring her bravery during the 1939 Black Friday bushfires, with festivities, Santa, and a Christmas celebration.
• Tracey Ah Sam named East Gippsland 2026 Citizen of the Year for exceptional service to Omeo community
  Tracey Ah Sam has been named East Gippsland’s 2026 Citizen of the Year for over 30 years’ dedicated service, leadership, and lasting impact on the Omeo community.
• Danny O'Brien says Gippsland roads among state's most dangerous after years of neglect under Allan Labor government
  Danny O'Brien says new AusRAP data shows many Gippsland roads are unsafe after years of Labor neglect, criticising the government for lowering speed limits instead of properly fixing deteriorating roads.
• Latrobe City Council launches Action Plan to simplify fees, processes, and communications for easier local businesses to grow
  Latrobe City Council’s new Action Plan simplifies fees, processes, and communications, making it easier for local businesses to operate, improve coordination, and support small businesses while driving economic growth.