A world-class Olympic mountain bike facility is set to open to the public well in advance of the 2032 Games and is expected to accommodate huge crowds at the event.
The Sunshine Coast Mountain Bike Centre, which will be delivered by Sunshine Coast Council, the state government and the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA), is still in the planning and approvals phase.
But GIICA stated, via its project overview, that the venue should be completed by 2029 and it should be able to host 10,000 spectators, including 8000 standing and 2000 seated, when the Games are on.
The centre will be developed on council-owned land, adjacent to more than 40km of existing trails at Parklands Conservation Park.
“(It) will deliver an international-standard cross-country Olympic competition trail and world-class facilities for athletes and the community, forming part of a broader nature-based recreation precinct,” GIICA said.
“The centre will feature a new trail hub, bike hire, amenities, car parking, and a cafe, supporting year-round use and creating a vibrant legacy well beyond the Games.
“The centre will attract outdoor enthusiasts to the region, boost the local economy and inspire a new generation of riders.”
GIICA outlined the timeline for the project, including a design phase, followed by construction of the trails and then construction of the hub before it is opened to the public, well before the Olympics and Paralympics.
“At this stage, the centre is planned for completion in 2029, allowing community access to the trail, facilities and amenities well ahead of the Games.”
“This means local riders, schools, clubs and visitors will be able to enjoy the international-standard competition trail, trail hub, bike hire and cafe in the lead-up to the Games.”
The project is being led by the council. Funding partners include the federal and state governments but it’s not yet clear how much it could cost or how it will be paid for.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the centre is an exciting opportunity for the region.
“The centre gives us the chance to host major mountain bike events while also delivering lasting benefits for our residents through increased recreation opportunities, eco‑tourism and economic growth,” she said.
“This project reflects what the Games mean for the Sunshine Coast: investing in infrastructure that benefits our community before, during and well beyond 2032.”
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A council spokesperson confirmed the centre is “on track to be ready for community use by 2029”.
“The centre and associated trails will support everyday community use before and after the Games and deliver long term social, economic and ecotourism benefits for the Sunshine Coast.”
The design of the Olympic cross country trail will be developed in collaboration with international cycling and Games partners, including the UCI, the International Olympic Committee and Brisbane 2032.
“Upcoming design works for the venue will focus on creating a safe and engaging spectator experience, with sections of the trail designed to allow spectators to get close to the action,” the spokesperson said.
“Planning and design will also consider safe access via Yandina–Bli Bli Road and carparking, with park-and-ride options during Games time.
“Transport and access arrangements will be finalised through Games Route Network Planning in partnership with the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads.”
The details for the mountain bike venue came as the state government revealed early designs for the Sunshine Coast Stadium upgrade, which is set to host football matches in 2032.
