Concept plans pump up Lake Mac’s recreational options

Published on 15 November 2021

A new BMX pump-track would be built at Redhead Beach, and a separate pump-track and skate park added to the Rathmines foreshore, under Lake Macquarie City Council concept plans.

Council is calling for public feedback on the two plans, aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and bolstering the city’s recreational options for people of all ages.

The Redhead pump-track is proposed for the bottom of the overflow car park at Redhead Beach.

Measuring 65m from end to end, the concept track features multiple entry/exit points, jump lines, landscaping and rest areas.

Council engaged pump-track company Dirtz, which has built similar facilities across Australia and overseas, to create a concept suitable for all ages and abilities.

Dirtz Managing Director Brett Barnes said the design included jump sections and other features.

“Pump-tracks are basically like a rollercoaster for people on bikes, boards and scooters,” he said.

“It will cater for the youngest children on scooters and balance bikes, mums and dads, all the way through to seasoned professionals. Each level of user will find something different and use the pump track in a different way.”

Council Manager Community Assets Brendan Callander said public consultation last year, during which three other potential sites in Redhead were put on the table, didn’t identify a clear favourite.

“This site was one of the alternatives raised during community consultation,” he said.

“It demonstrated clear benefits, including its amazing beachside location and access to existing amenities, such as the public toilets and café at Redhead Beach.

“We’re keen to hear again from the community what they think about these concept plans – whether we have the right type of track, and whether the location provides the right fit.”

In Rathmines, a skate park, pump-track and youth hub are proposed, with $1.6 million in developer contributions and government grants set aside for the project.

The new installations would replace and extend upon the existing outdated skate facility at Rathmines Park.

Mr Callander said a multi-court and/or a parkour area were other possibilities for the site.

“Features included in the final plan will be subject to community feedback, as well as available budget for the project,” he said.

Construction on both projects is expected to begin in 2022-23.

Go to shape.lakemac.com.au for more information and to have your say.