Brisbane's Mountain Biking at the Crossroads: BORRA Advocates for Change as Local Elections Approach – Put LNP Last (Press Release)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Brisbane, Australia — With local council elections imminent, the Brisbane Off-Road Riders Alliance (BORRA) has brought to light the community's call for enhanced mountain biking infrastructure. The narrative weaving through decades of conversation around Brisbane's trails is one of missed opportunities and the need for collaborative, informed approaches to off-road cycling.
BORRA has highlighted the discernible shift in the community's attitude, emphasizing that Brisbane residents want more than just token gestures—they are calling for a properly sized network of quality trails close to home across the city. In light of this, the alliance has expressed deep concern over the Schrinner/LNP-led council's response to mountain biking needs. The council's pledge to add a single new trail to the existing network has been labelled by BORRA and the community as too little and too late, signalling a continuation of what BORRA describes as two decades of inaction.
The advocacy group notes that previous opportunities for the Schrinner/LNP council to unite various stakeholders and reshape the future of off-road cycling have been squandered. Even when groups proactively sought to establish a forum for change, their efforts were met with what BORRA perceives as neglect by the Schrinner/LNP council.
Conversely, the ALP and Greens have presented approaches that BORRA finds more encouraging. The ALP’s candidate for Lord Mayor, Tracey Price, has demonstrated an understanding of mountain biking as a natural and progressive recreational activity. In a meeting with BORRA representatives, Price voiced her commitment to transparency regarding the 'Off-road cycling' budget line and supported the expansion of the network as outlined in the current off-road cycling strategy.
Price's stance on collaborating with Brisbane’s communities to solve the city’s challenges has resonated with BORRA. Although unable to commit to specific projects without insight into the current council's commitments, she has pledged to work with the mountain biking community within 30 days post-election to assess and support their needs. This promise stands in stark contrast to the current administration's approach, which BORRA contends is characterized by delays and indecision.
The QLD Greens have also been acknowledged for their balanced vision. They advocate for a co-planning and co-managing approach to trail development that aligns recreational trail use with environmental and wildlife habitat goals. BORRA views this as a smart approach that reflects a growing sensibility among the catchment and bushcare groups.
As Brisbane voters consider their choices, BORRA underscores the importance of electing leaders who will not only listen to but actively work with the community to foster a vibrant and environmentally conscious off-road cycling culture. The association urges residents to choose candidates who promise action over inertia, collaboration over division, and transparency over obscurity.
Contacts
Russ Colpoys, President : president@borra.org
Dan Crawford, Trail Advocacy Officer: dan.crawford@borra.org