WESTERN AUSTRALIAN STRATEGIC CYCLING FACILITIES REVIEW Prepared and published by: WestCycle Incorporated

With funding and support from: Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries

Contact: WestCycle Incorporated [email protected] www.westcycle.org.au

Acknowledgements: WestCycle would like to acknowledge the contribution of the Western Australian cycling community in the development of this document.

Photography: Alex Mahoney Photography, BMX Queensland, Chameleon Photography, Cycling Victoria, Department of State Development QLD, Glen Eira City Council, Joe McCarthy, Lorna Henson Photography, Nick Cowie, Paula Shaughnessy, Perth BMX Photography, Rob Frith, Steve Lloyd Webdabs, Strava Metro, Toowoomba Region, WestCycle Incorporated

Design: Media on Mars, Fremantle, WA

Copyright: The information contained in this document may be copied provided that full acknowledgement is made.

Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries GOVERNMENT OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2

01 INTRODUCTION 4

02 WHERE WE ARE 10

03 MOVING FORWARD 36

GLOSSARY 38

REFERENCES 40

1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

2 Cycling is one of the most popular ƒƒHost events using simplified of criterium racing takes place sport and recreation activities in event approvals, logistics and on tracks made from the road Australia. In Western Australia, management processes network and requires full or nearly 500,000 people (18.5% ƒƒProvide enhanced spectator partial road closures. of the population) ride a bike opportunities ƒƒThere is only one time trial course regularly, with 85% of these people ƒƒCater for bike education in Western Australia. The majority (425,000) riding for sport or and skill building of time trials take place on course recreation rather than transport. It is well recognised that other sport made from the road network Despite these high participation and recreation activities require and require full or partial road rates, cycling infrastructure dedicated facilities for training and closures. development in Western Australia competition and this is reflected by to date has largely focused on bikes the significant investments made TRACK CYCLING as a mode of transport. Although in Western Australia to dedicated ƒƒThere is only one velodrome that this infrastructure can and is used infrastructure provision. Over can be used for track cycling or for leisure cycling and training, recent times a significant amount racing. Recently receiving a there has been limited dedicated of money has been spent delivering $2.5 million upgrade to resurface facility provision in Western major new or upgraded facilities the track and fix roofing issues, yet Australia for cycling as a sport and for basketball, netball, cricket, rugby, it is still inaccessible to the majority recreation activity. Australian Rules Football, hockey, of Western Australians and unable This lack of dedicated facility athletics and shooting. These to host some international and provision is one of the greatest activities all have lower participation national events. barriers to the long-term growth rates than cycling, however, for a and development of sport and variety of reasons, we have not seen BMX RACING recreation cycling in Western paralleled investment in sport and ƒƒThere are no international or Australia. It forms a significant recreation cycling facilities. national standard BMX tracks in barrier to participation with some The Western Australian Strategic Western Australia as none of our sections of the population citing the Cycling Facilities Review has tracks have an 8m starting ramp. lack of dedicated safe and accessible been developed by WestCycle, We are losing our top riders to places to ride, train and compete in consultation with the cycling the eastern states and overseas as a primary reason for not riding a community and funding support as there is nowhere appropriate bike or taking part in cycling events. from the Department of Local for them to train and race. We are also unable to host international The lack of provision stems from Government, Sport and Cultural and national events. the misconception that sport and Industries, to establish a high level recreation cycling, unlike other understanding of current provision activities, has no requirement for and need for dedicated sport dedicated facilities. On the contrary, and recreation cycling facilities in THE FUTURE OF SPORT access to safe and sustainable Western Australia. AND RECREATION dedicated facilities can yield The current provision of dedicated CYCLING IN WESTERN significant benefits to riders at every sport and recreation cycling facilities AUSTRALIA IS DEPENDENT stage of every cycling pathway, from in Western Australia is as follows: ON THE DEVELOPMENT local grass-roots to state, national OF A NETWORK OF and international level. ROAD RACING SAFE, ACCESSIBLE Dedicated facilities for sport and ƒƒAll road races run on courses made AND SUSTAINABLE recreation cycling can: from the road network. There are CYCLING FACILITIES. THIS no dedicated road race facilities or ƒƒProvide an environment for NETWORK NEEDS TO recreation, training and events closed road circuits in the state. ƒƒThe only dedicated criterium track SUPPORTS RECREATIONAL that is not affected by other users RIDING, TRAINING or activities is not appropriate for regular AND COMPETITION AT ƒƒHelp raise the profile of cycling racing due to its short length, ƒƒBe a home to clubs, organisations poor condition and configuration, EVERY STAGE OF EVERY and community groups isolated and peripheral location CYCLING PATHWAY. and high hire costs. The majority

3 01 INTRODUCTION

4 SOMETIMES CYCLING IS TRANSPORT. A WAY OF GETTING Transport Leisure TO PLACES.

SOMETIMES CYCLING IS SPORT Cycling OR RECREATION. THE RIDE IS FOR FUN, FITNESS, PERSONAL Challenge/ Training CHALLENGE OR GLORY. Competition Figure 1: Reasons for riding a bike

The Western Australian Strategic 01 INTRODUCTION Cycling Facilities Review has ƒƒSport and recreation cycling participation nationally and in been developed by WestCycle Western Australia with funding support from the ƒƒWestern Australian cycling organisations and their growing memberships Department of Local Government, ƒƒThe value of dedicated sport and recreation cycling facilities Sport and Cultural Industries, to ƒƒThe position and role of this Review in the Western Australian cycling establish a high level understanding planning hierarchy of current provision and need for dedicated sport and recreation 02 WHERE WE ARE cycling facilities in Western ƒƒPreliminary studies of the road, track and BMX sport cycling disciplines in Australia. Western Australia, including their histories, format and operation, facility Cycling is diverse and people requirements, review of existing facilities, identification of gaps and ride bikes for many different desired improvements reasons (Figure 1). This Review, ƒƒThe role of the road, bike lane and shared path network in recreational however, focuses on the sport and cycling and desired improvements recreational cycling disciplines of ƒƒThe benefits of cycling facility hubs and minimum requirements for state, road, track and BMX. Facilities for regional and local cycling hubs mountain biking are addressed separately in the Western 03 MOVING FORWARD Australian Mountain Bike Strategy. ƒƒThe vision for sport and recreation cycling facilities in Western Australia Cycling as a mode of transport is and supporting strategies and recommendations considered elsewhere in relevant policy guidance. This Review is comprised of three sections:

5 SPORT AND AGE 6 - 13 AGE 14+ TOTAL RECREATION CYCLING ACTIVITY RATE (%) ACTIVITY RATE (%) ACTIVITY RATE (%) PARTICIPATION Swimming 48.8% Swimming 10.1% Swimming 14.4% Cycling is one of the most popular Soccer 48.7% Cycling 7.3% Cycling 10.8% sport and recreation activities in Hiking/ Australia, with more people riding Cycling 37.7% 4.4% Soccer 8.2% a bike regularly for leisure, training, Bushwalking challenge or competition (10%) than Athletics 31.7% Aerobics 3.2% Dancing 6.0% play soccer (8.2%), tennis (4.4%), Basketball 30.5% Soccer 3.1% Basketball 5.0% cricket (4.4%), netball (3.9%) or Hiking/ Australian Rules Football (2.9%) Dancing 30.3% Dancing 2.9% 5.0% Bushwalking (Figure 2).1 Cricket 25.7% Tennis 2.4% Tennis 4.4% Participation levels are even higher in Western Australia. Nearly Netball 20.5% Netball 1.8% Cricket 4.4% 500,000 Western Australians Tennis 20.0% Basketball 1.8% Athletics 4.0% (18.5% of the population) ride Gymnastics 18.1% Cricket 1.7% Netball 3.9% regularly, with 85% of these people (425,000) riding for sport or Figure 2: Top ten sport and recreational activities in Australia recreation rather than transport.2 Young Western Australians have Western Australia the second one of the highest levels of cycling fastest growing road and track participation in the country. Across community in Australia (behind the state, 47% of 0 – 9 year olds and Tasmania). 37% of 10 – 17 year olds ride a bike ƒƒMembership of BMX Sports at least once in a typical week.2 Western Australia (BMXWA), the Participation is even higher in state’s peak governing body for regional Western Australia, with BMX racing, and its 19 affiliated 63% of 0 – 9 year olds and 42% clubs has doubled in the past of 10 – 17 year olds riding at least five years.5 weekly.2 ƒƒOver 2,000 people are now Around 61% of households in members of the West Australian Western Australia have access Mountain Bike Association to at least one working bike, (WAMBA), the state’s significantly above the national representative body for mountain average of 56%.2 biking, and its 13 affiliated clubs and groups.6 CYCLING ƒƒMembership of Bicycling Western Australia (BWA), which runs ORGANISATIONS AND non-competitive road events for MEMBERSHIP LEVELS recreational riders, has grown by In parallel with the state’s high 35% since 2011.7 cycling participation rates, In addition, cycling forms one Western Australia’s sport and of the three components of recreational cycling organisations triathlon. As well as riding to train, are also experiencing significant many triathletes also compete membership growth (Figure 3): in individual cycling disciplines, ƒƒMembership of CycleSport particularly time trials. Triathlon Western Australia (CSWA), the participation is at an all-time high in state’s peak governing body for Western Australia with over 22,000 road and track cycling, and its registered participations in sanction 16 affiliated clubs has increased events in the 2014-15 season.8 by 27% since 2011.3,4 This makes Membership of Triathlon Western

6 Australia (TWA) has also increased 5000 CSWA significantly in the past five years, BMXWA with membership of its 18 affiliated 4000 BWA clubs over 26% higher than in 2011.8 TWA THE VALUE OF SPORT 3000 WAMBA AND RECREATION CYCLING FACILITIES 2000 Cycling infrastructure development 1000 in Western Australia to date has largely focused on bikes as a 0 mode of transport. Guided by the 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Department of Transport’s Western Figure 3: Membership of cycling organisations Australian Bicycle Network Plan (WABN),9 this has primarily been the ROAD The sport and recreation cycling facilities that exist in Western development of the Principal Shared ƒƒRoad race courses Australia are overviewed in Section Path (PSP) network along freeway ƒƒCriterium tracks 2, however there are significant and railway corridors and the rollout ƒƒTime trial courses of on-road bike lanes and other gaps at all levels. Despite the shared paths by local governments. TRACK significant increases in people riding Although this infrastructure can regularly, this lack of dedicated ƒƒIndoor velodromes and is used for leisure cycling and facility provision is one of the ƒƒOutdoor velodromes training, there has been limited greatest barriers to the long-term growth and development of sport dedicated facility provision in BMX Western Australia for cycling as and recreation cycling in Western sport and recreation activity. ƒƒBMX racing tracks Australia. It forms a significant barrier to participation with some Each discipline of sport and RECREATIONAL CYCLING sections of the population citing recreation cycling has different the lack of dedicated safe and facility requirements: ƒƒSafe, high quality and accessible cycling routes accessible places to ride, train and compete as a primary reason for not riding a bike or taking part in cycling events.2

7 The lack of provision stems from ƒƒProvide an environment for The future of sport and recreation the misconception that sport and recreation, training and events cycling in Western Australia is recreation cycling, unlike other that is not affected by other users dependent on the development activities, has no requirement for or activities of a network of dedicated, safe dedicated facilities. On the contrary, ƒƒHelp raise the profile of cycling and accessible cycling facilities. access to safe and sustainable ƒƒBe a home to clubs, organisations This network needs to support dedicated facilities can yield and community groups recreational riding, training and significant benefits to riders at every ƒƒHost events using simplified competition at every stage of every stage of every cycling pathway, from event approvals, logistics and cycling pathway. local grass-roots to state, national management processes and international level. ƒƒProvide enhanced spectator Dedicated facilities for sport and opportunities recreation cycling can: ƒƒCater for bike education and skill building

8 WESTERN WESTCYCLE AUSTRALIAN OUR BIKE PATH 2014 - 2020 CYCLING PLANNING HIERARCHY FIRST TIER MOUNTAIN This Review forms a crucial tier ROAD TRACK BMX TRANSPORT BIKE of the Western Australian cycling planning hierarchy (Figure 5). At the head of the hierarchy, WestCycle’s SECOND TIER WA ‘Our Bike Path 2014 – 2020’ WESTERN AUSTRALIAN STRATEGIC MOUNTAIN POLICY provides the strategic framework CYCLING FACILITIES REVIEW BIKE GUIDANCE for cycling in Western Australia.10 STRATEGY This framework specifically targets building participation, particularly THIRD TIER DISCIPLINE DISCIPLINE DISCIPLINE REGIONAL amongst females and young people, MASTER- MASTER- MASTER- MASTER- and increasing the sporting success PLANNING PLANNING PLANNING PLANNING of Western Australian riders across the road, track, BMX and mountain FOURTH TIER bike disciplines. The development of DETAILED DETAILED FACILITY PLANNING TRAIL a statewide network of dedicated PLANNING sport and recreation cycling facilities is seen as integral to this, Figure 5: Western Australian cycling planning hierarchy with the provision of appropriate standards of facilities for each activity in Western Australia and Guided by this Review, the lower tiers discipline supporting riders at every provides a high level understanding of the planning hierarchy will ensure stage of every cycling pathway. of current provision and need for that the right facilities are established dedicated sport and recreation in the right places, in the right way Prepared by WestCycle, with funding cycling facilities. It will also be used and for the right reasons. Discipline support from the Department to help guide government (local, masterplanning (third tier) will of Local Government, Sport and state and national), decision-makers, identify and prioritise locations where Cultural Industries, this Review landowners and land managers, road, track and BMX facilities could be underpins the objectives of ‘Our Bike clubs, communities, and everyone developed. Detailed facility planning Path 2014 – 2020’. As a second tier else involved in bike riding in the (fourth tier) will guide and facilitate document in the planning hierarchy, future investment and development the delivery of facilities at locations this Review promotes cycling as of facilities. identified by masterplanning. a leading sport and recreation

9 02 WHERE WE ARE

10 ROAD RACING Road racing is a major part of in Western Australia - the first and providing opportunities for sport cycling in Western Australia, edition of the Beverley to Perth riders with different skill sets and however there are currently no Road Race was held in 1897 whilst physical attributes. Road race dedicated, safe and appropriate in 2015 the Collie to Donnybrook & courses can be: linear and run from road racing facilities in the state Return Classic celebrated its 90th point-to-point, out-and-back with for riders to build skills, train or anniversary. riders following a linear route to race. This forms a major barrier Three distinct types of road racing the halfway point and returning the to participation and significantly take place in Western Australia same way, involve one or more laps affects our ability to host races – road races, criteriums and time of a circuit, or be a combination of and other events. As a community trials. In addition to differences in several styles. In addition, courses this is something we must look their format and how they operate, can be flat, rolling, hilly, or combine at changing to ensure that road each type of road racing also has its several different terrain types. racing in Western Australia has an own specific course requirements. Road races are usually graded by accessible and sustainable future. gender, ability (e.g. from A Grade ROAD RACE COURSES through to F Grade) or age (e.g. WHAT IS ROAD IN WESTERN open or masters) and this provides RACING? AUSTRALIA opportunities and fair competition Road racing is the generic name for different types of riders. Races In Western Australia, all road races given to cycling races held outdoors are based on distance rather than are run on courses made from on roads or closed road circuits. duration. With the exception of the road network. There are no Dating from at least the mid handicapped racing, riders in the dedicated road race facilities or nineteenth century, road racing is same grade start simultaneously closed road race circuits in the State. the oldest discipline of competitive with the winner the first to cross cycling. The first recognised road Road races take place on a variety the finish line. Different grades racing World Championship was of courses with different course typically compete over the same held in 1893 and the discipline lengths, styles and terrains (e.g. flat, course, although there can be has featured at every edition of rolling, hilly etc.) offering a range the modern Olympic Games. Road of experiences racing also has a long history

11 variation in course configurations ROAD RACE COURSE LOCAL GOVERNMENT EVENTS/YEAR and race lengths. A Grade, for example, typically race for 80km 1. Pickering Brook Kalamunda 8 – 120km whilst F Grade compete 2. Casuarina Kwinana 7 over 10km – 30km. Depending on =3. Herne Hill Swan 5 the volume and abilities of riders and the length and configuration =3. Baldivis Dog Hill Rockingham 5 of the course, it can be possible to Based on 2014-2015 season12 run multiple road races for different Figure 6: Most frequently used road race courses in Western Australia grades on the same course at the notable stage races such as the management by trained marshals same time. Tour de Perth, which was the first and supporting infrastructure such In handicapped racing, such as event of the elite-level 2015 Cycling as temporary toilets. the Collie to Donnybrook & Return Australia National Road Series. Road race courses typically Classic, the North Dandalup The Tour of Margaret River, one of remain open to traffic during races Handicap and the Goldfields the largest road racing events for although some have partial or Cyclassic, all riders compete on professional and amateur cyclists rolling road closures. Regardless the same length course with riders in Australia, also takes place in of whether closures are in place or starting at intervals based on their November each year. not, traffic management is required ability. The slowest riders start first In Western Australia, road race for all road races using the road and the fastest riders start last. The courses are planned and designed network with a Traffic Management first rider to cross the finish line, by event organisers, including clubs, Plan (TMP) mandatory for securing regardless of their start time, wins. with approval to run racing secured event approval.11 Application of Stage road racing consists of from local government, the police, sound and appropriate traffic multiple road races, or ‘stages’, Main Roads Western Australia management procedures before, ridden consecutively by the same and CycleSport Western Australia during and after a road race: riders the same day or over a (CSWA), as appropriate. The ƒƒProvide for a safe environment number of days. In addition to requirements necessary to secure for all road users the winners of each individual event approvals have increased ƒƒProvide protection to riders, stage, the rider with the lowest significantly in recent years. This organisers and the general public cumulative finish time across the has been paralleled by an increase from traffic hazards that may stages is declared the overall, or in the financial costs incurred by arise as a result of the road race general classification (GC), winner. event organisers in meeting these ƒƒMinimise the disruption, Western Australia has hosted some requirements, such as traffic congestion and delays to all road users ƒƒEnsure performance of the road network is maintained at an acceptable level throughout the duration of the road race ƒƒEnsure access to adjacent residential/business premises is maintained at all times. The level of supporting infrastructure and services available at each road race course can vary significantly. Some courses are headquartered at a school, recreation centre or other community building and have access to permanent infrastructure and services, such as toilets, warm up areas, car parking and spectator

12 provision, whilst others only have access to basic temporary facilities provided by the event organiser. The frequency that different road race courses in Western Australia are used varies significantly – a number are only utilised once a year to host some of Western Australia’s most prestigious road races (e.g. Tom Lowry Memorial Race, Collie to Donnybrook & Return Classic) whilst others are used regularly by several event organisers across the race season (Figure 6).12 Road race courses in the Perth Metropolitan and Peel regions are typically in peri-urban locations, and often surrounded by light industrial or semi-agricultural areas. Historically such positioning at the fringe of population centres maximised the likelihood of securing particularly amongst young people Intensification of existing road event approval and minimised and less experienced riders. race courses can place them at traffic volumes and management A number of road race courses have capacity, forcing different event requirements during races. Urban already been affected by urban organisers to compete to secure a growth and encroachment is, sprawl, with the Wandi course now finite number of event approvals however, threatening the future unavailable for racing. In response available per day, week, month of many of these courses with the to increasing traffic volumes in the or season. Increased event use transformation of surrounding area, the local authority took the can also have a detrimental land into residential use having decision to refuse event approval impact on neighboring residents, the potential to significantly unless a full road closure is in place. businesses and others who require impact on the ability of a course to Implementing full closure would, access and can lead to course successfully and safely host road however, cause significant logistical fatigue with riders frustrated by race events. and financial strain and event the limited choice and variety of Growing residential densities can organisers have been forced to racing experiences available. lead to increased traffic volumes, abandon the course. Creating new road race courses at affect speed limits, and result in Further abandonments are likely the new urban limit pushes racing infrastructure changes being made as urban growth continues and, further from population centres, without regard to bike racing - in response, event organisers are with people needing to travel a such as road narrowing and the increasingly seeking alternative considerable distance to compete introduction of roundabouts, traffic arrangements to ensure the or spectate. Typically, this means lights and other street furniture. future of road races, particularly that courses are neither feasible nor The potential for conflict with in the Perth Metropolitan and Peel desirable to use on a regular basis neighbouring residents, businesses regions. This has included increasing and this can have a detrimental and others who require access to the use of existing established impact on participation and the course area on certain days road race courses and creating involvement. and at particular times is also new courses at the new urban As the traditional heart of the likely to increase. Racing on the limit. Whilst this does enable road oldest sport cycling discipline, it road can also foster concerns races to take place, neither solution is essential to ensure continued about safety. This can be a provides the optimal experience for appropriate facility provision for significant barrier to participation, event organisers or riders. road races in Western Australia.

13 There is a need to: ƒƒMaintain road race courses to of rider. To achieve this, circuits ƒƒMaximise availability, accessibility a high standard, ensuring that should be designed specifically to and variety of road race courses any changes to surfacing or road their location, optimising layout and ƒƒWork with key stakeholders, infrastructure has regard to bike topography. including landowners, land racing. Recreational cycling challenge managers, local government, Further, there is significant value events are also growing in Main Roads Western Australia, in developing a network of closed popularity in Western Australia. event organisers, clubs and the road race circuits to support and Whilst events such as Bicycling local community, to safeguard complement the road race courses Western Australia’s Cyclo Sportif and improve established road that use the road network. In series and Dams Challenge are race courses, and supporting addition to providing a traffic-free non-competitive events, organisers infrastructure and services, environment for competition, circuits and participants have similar safety wherever possible can provide safe and accessible concerns, traffic management ƒƒIdentify and prioritise locations spaces for recreation, training, bike requirements and need for within or in close proximity to education and skill building. supporting infrastructure and population centres and/or as part Closed road race circuits should be services as road races. of cycling facility hubs where new longer than criterium tracks (see road race courses, and supporting below) and different circuits should infrastructure and services, could provide varied experiences and be established opportunities for different styles

14 CRITERIUM TRACKS IN configuration of the track, it can be ƒƒA base for high performance WESTERN AUSTRALIA possible to run multiple criterium teams and training races on the same track at the ƒƒA home for clubs and organisations In Western Australia, the only same time. and a valuable community dedicated criterium track is not Due to their short durations resource for the wider public appropriate for regular racing due and use of compact tracks, ƒƒBike-specific surfacing and to its short length, poor condition criteriums can provide an excellent multiple track configurations, and configuration, isolated and introduction to road racing and are enabling flexibility and variety in peripheral location and high hire often the first step into competitive circuit layout and length costs. The majority of criterium cycling for many people. ƒƒAccess to supporting racing takes place on tracks made infrastructure and services from the road network and require Criterium track characteristics, ƒƒEnhanced opportunities for full or partial road closures. and the level of supporting spectators infrastructure and services, can Criterium racing involves multiple ƒƒAn off-road venue for bike vary depending on the standard of laps of a short track (typically education and skill building. the facility. However, well-designed 0.8km – 2.5km). In Western and accessible dedicated criterium Other states have already Australia, criteriums are typically tracks can typically provide: recognised the need for dedicated held over a set time period plus two criterium tracks. The following ƒ laps with the race duration, and ƒPermanent and unrestricted case studies illustrate the value of therefore also usually the length, access for cycling (and other the well-designed and accessible varying by grade (e.g. A Grade: activities such as skating) with criterium tracks in Toowoomba, 50 minutes + 2 laps, F Grade: a simplified event approval and Queensland (Case Study 1) and 15 minutes + 2 laps). management process Cranbourne, Victoria (Case Study 2). ƒƒA safe traffic-free environment In criterium racing, riders in the for recreation, training and same grade start simultaneously competition with the winner the first to cross the finish line. Depending on the volume and abilities of riders and the length and

15 CASE STUDY 1: TOOWOOMBA CRITERIUM TRACK - TOOWOOMBA, QLD

ƒƒ National standard criterium track Description ƒƒ Joint initiative between Toowoomba Regional Council, Queensland Government and the Royal Agricultural Society of Queensland

ƒƒ Six different track configurations, with circuit lengths varying from 350m to 1.7km ƒƒ Hosts local, state and national racing, including 2014 U17/U15 Road National Championships Cycling Facilities and Stage 4 of the 2014 Tour of Toowoomba, part of the elite-level National Road Series ƒƒ Free public use, except during events or private hire

ƒƒ Located at Royal Toowoomba Showgrounds, 7km from Toowoomba CBD Location ƒƒ Links to recreational cycling routes

Infrastructure and Services ƒƒ Infrastructure includes toilets, showers, change rooms, function areas, clubroom, car parking ƒƒ $2.63 million build cost

CASE STUDY 2: CASEY FIELDS CRITERIUM CYCLING TRACK - CRANBOURNE, VIC

ƒƒ Regional standard criterium track Description ƒƒ Joint initiative between City of Casey and Sport and Recreation Victoria ƒƒ A popular club and community resource

ƒƒ Four different track configurations, with total track length of 2.2km Cycling Facilities ƒƒ Hosts local and state level racing ƒƒ Open for public use, except during events or private hire

ƒƒ Located at Casey Fields multi-sports complex, 5km from Cranbourne and 55km from Location Melbourne CBD

Infrastructure and Services ƒƒ Access to toilets, showers, change rooms, function areas, clubroom, car parking ƒƒ $4.2 million build cost

Criterium racing is an increasing Located adjacent to the Midvale Creating temporary criterium popular type of road racing in SpeedDome in Midland, this tracks using the road network Western Australia with 60 – 70 track is however little used due often requires full or partial road events typically held each season. to the fact it was shortened and closures as well as event approval. The frequency that different also perceptions amongst event This can place significant logistical criterium tracks are used varies organisers and riders about its and financial strain on event significantly – a number are only poor condition and configuration, organisers as well as weaken utilised once a year to host some of isolated and peripheral location and relationships with neighboring Western Australia’s most prestigious high hire costs. Instead, events are residents, businesses and others criterium races (e.g. Stan Gurney either held on temporary criterium who require access to the area. Memorial Race, Pemberton Classic tracks created using the road Racing on the road also requires Criterium) whilst others are used network or occasionally on circuits extensive risk management and regularly by several event organisers designed for other activities, such can foster concerns about safety. across the race season. as the Perth Motorplex motorsport This can be a significant barrier to Despite the popularity of criterium venue in Kwinana Beach. Whilst participation, particularly amongst racing however, there is the only this does enable criterium racing young people and less experienced one dedicated criterium track in to take place, neither solution riders. In addition, these temporary Western Australia – the Midvale provides the optimal experience facilities often have limited access Criterium Track. for event organisers or riders. to supporting infrastructure and

16 MIDVALE CRITERIUM TRACK - MIDVALE, WA

ƒƒ Part of the Midvale SpeedDome complex Description ƒƒ Little used due to location, configuration and high costs

ƒƒ 700m track Cycling Facilities ƒƒ Not open for public use ƒƒ Surface is in poor condition

Location ƒƒ 20km east of Perth CBD

Infrastructure and Services ƒƒ Access to toilets, showers and change rooms, if the SpeedDome is open services, such as toilets, warm up to conflict and increasing risk. detrimental impact on participation areas, car parking and spectator Whilst they usually have good and involvement. As such, using seating. Their nature and use by access to supporting infrastructure these venues to host criterium motor vehicles also means that and services, these locations are racing on a regular basis is neither they can be unsuitable for training often already in intensive use feasible nor desirable. outside of events. and therefore have very limited As an increasingly popular form Hosting criterium racing at capacity to regularly host criterium of road racing and an important locations designed for, and races. Public access is also step into competitive cycling, it is predominantly used by, other normally restricted, with the tracks essential to develop a cohesive, activities – such as at motorsport unavailable for training outside planned network of accessible, venues - can also be challenging. of events. In addition, motorsport sustainable and appropriate Sometimes cycling may not be venues are typically located away criterium tracks in Western wholly compatible with the other from residential areas to limit their Australia. This network should user groups whilst the configuration noise impact. This means, therefore, include existing, revitalised and and surfacing of tracks may not that people need to travel a new facilities, with both dedicated be ideal for bike racing, leading considerable distance to compete or and temporary criterium tracks spectate and this can have a evaluated for their suitability for upgrading and continued use.

17 TIME TRIAL COURSES Time trials are a popular type of one or more laps of a circuit, or be IN WESTERN road racing in Western Australia a combination of several styles. In with 50 – 60 events typically held addition, courses can be flat, rolling, AUSTRALIA each season. The frequency that hilly, or combine several different There is only one closed circuit time different time trial courses are used terrain types. trial course in Western Australia. varies significantly – a number are The level of supporting The majority of time trials take only utilised once a year whilst infrastructure and services place on courses made from the others are used regularly across the available at each course can road network and require full or race season (Figure 7). vary significantly. Some courses partial road closures. Time trial courses vary considerably are headquartered at a school, Time trials are a distinct type of in length, style and terrain. Courses recreation centre or other road racing and can also provide an are typically between 15km and community building and have important training and racing tool 40km, although longer and shorter access to permanent infrastructure for triathletes and other multisport courses do exist. Courses can be: and services, such as toilets, warm athletes. linear and run from point-to-point, up areas, car parking and spectator In individual time trials (ITT), single out-and-back with riders following seating, whilst others only have riders set off at intervals (typically a linear route to the halfway point access to basic temporary facilities 30 seconds, 1 or 2 minutes apart) and returning the same way, involve provided by the event organiser. and race alone against the clock over a set course. The winner is the rider with the fastest time. In team ROAD RACE COURSE LOCAL GOVERNMENT EVENTS/YEAR time trials (TTT), groups of riders 1. Hopelands Serpentine-Jarrahdale 17 (usually between 2 and 9) ride as 2. Champion Lakes Armadale 9 a team against the clock. There is no grading in time trials, although 3. Kings Park Perth 6 riders may be seeded based on Based on 2014–2015 season12 past performance. Figure 7: Most frequently used time trial courses in Western Australia

18 DESIRED IMPROVEMENTS

ƒƒ A statewide network of accessible road race courses, criterium tracks and time trial courses that provide for riders at every stage of the cycling pathway from local grassroots to international level ƒƒ Existing road racing facilities, and supporting infrastructure and services, are safeguarded and improved where appropriate ƒƒ Locations for new, reestablished and upgraded road race courses, criterium tracks and time trial courses and supporting services and infrastructure identified and prioritised by discipline masterplanning that is underpinned by extensive consultation and involvement with key stakeholders With the exception of the closed As a popular form of road ƒƒ Road racing facilities are circuit at Champion Lakes, all time racing and an important tool for delivered through detailed trial courses in Western Australia triathletes and other multisport facility planning, using a standardised development use the road network.Courses athletes, there is a need to process to ensure the right typically remain open to traffic safeguard and improve the facilities are developed in the during races although some have availability and accessibility of right places, in the right way and partial or rolling road closures. time trial courses in Western for the right reasons Regardless of whether closures are Australia. Existing courses should ƒƒ International and national road in place or not, traffic management be maintained and improved to racing events hosted regularly is required for all time trials using a high standard where possible, in Western Australia, with at the road network with a Traffic ensuring that any changes to least one National Series round held each year and National Management Plan (TMP) mandatory surfacing or road infrastructure has Championships held at least 11 for securing event approval. regard to bike racing. Opportunities every five years Like road race courses, urban to establish new courses, including ƒƒ Road racing facilities are growth is having an adverse closed time trial circuits, within or delivered as part of cycling impact on the ability of many time in close proximity to population facility hubs where appropriate trial courses to successfully and centres and/or as part of cycling safely host events. Increased traffic facility hubs should also be volumes, affected speed limits and explored. In addition, the provision the introduction of infrastructure of permanent infrastructure and such as roundabouts and traffic services at courses that are used lights has already restricted the regularly should be considered. use of some courses at certain times and forced the abandonment of other courses. These patterns are likely to continue with further urban sprawl, undermining the long-term future of the sport in Western Australia.

19 TRACK CYCLING Despite having the lowest provision for track cycling in Australia, Western Australia’s successful track cycling program provides a consistent flow of world-class track athletes. However, our single velodrome is aging and beginning to compromise the training and racing environment. We need a statewide network of dedicated community- level outdoor velodromes to increase participation and a new highly accessible indoor velodrome that will provide a world-class home for our high performance INDOOR: Darebin International Sports Centre - Melbourne, VIC athletes and host international and national events. WHAT IS TRACK CYCLING? Track cycling dates from the mid- to-late nineteenth century and is one of the oldest forms of sport cycling. With the exception of the 1912 Games, track cycling has featured at every edition of the modern Olympics. Track cycling takes place on purpose-built banked oval tracks known as velodromes. Tracks can vary in length (between 133m and OUTDOOR: Lidcome Oval - Sydney, NSW 500m) and steepness. Indoor tracks Figure 8: Examples of indoor and outdoor velodromes are generally shorter and have sharper banking, whilst outdoor endurance, with each typically Championships. Its cross-training tracks are typically longer and have requiring different skill sets and gains are also widely recognised, shallower banking (Figure 8). physical attributes. Sprint events with training and racing on the The UCI, track cycling’s world are raced individually or against track consistently shown to build governing body, requires 250m one or more competitors and focus fitness, improve bike skills and tracks at velodromes that are on explosive power and high- technique and develop tactical used for international events and speed skills over a small number knowledge. Multiple elite road recommend that any tracks where of laps. Endurance events are held cyclists, including Western high performance riders train and over longer distances and test the Australians Luke Durbridge compete should be this length. endurance abilities of individual or (national road and time trial Indoor tracks are usually surfaced groups of riders. champion) and Melissa Hoskins with timber, whilst outdoor tracks Track cycling offers the highest (world team pursuit champion) have are often concrete or asphalt. elite-level medal count of the had prestigious track careers before Track cycling events fit into two cycling disciplines, with 10 Olympic moving to the road. broad categories: sprint and events and 19 events in the World

20 VELODROMES NUMBER OF STATE/TERRITORY VELODROME TO STATE/TERRITORY COMPARED TO THE VELODROMES POPULATION POPULATION RATIO NATIONAL AVERAGE

AUSTRALIA 56 23,576,000 1:421,000 -

TAS 9 515,000 1:57,000 8 over

NT 2 246,000 1:123,000 2 over

SA 6 1,688,000 1:281,000 2 over

ACT 1 387,000 1:387,000 On par

VIC 13 5,866,000 1:451,000 1 under

NSW 14 7,544,000 1:538,000 4 under

QLD 7 4,741,000 1:677,000 4 under

WA 1* 2,589,000 1:2,589,000 5 under

* There are outdoor velodromes in Collie, Narrogin and Esperance however they are unusable for track cycling and racing. Figure 9: Velodrome to population ratios in Australia

VELODROMES IN people, a deficit of five under the WESTERN AUSTRALIA national average (Figure 9). Western Australia has the lowest provision Western Australia punches well of track cycling facilities in Australia. above its weight in track cycling The Midvale SpeedDome indoor with multiple national, world and velodrome in Midland is the only Olympic champions, but we have velodrome that can be used for the lowest provision of track cycling track cycling and racing in Western facilities in Australia. There is only Australia. Opened in 1989, the one velodrome in the state that can SpeedDome is an important be used for track cycling and racing. community recreation resource and Benchmarked against the national training venue for club and Western context, Western Australia has a Australian Institute of Sport significant shortfall of track cycling (WAIS) Developing Champions facilities. There are 56 velodromes program athletes. It has also hosted in Australia. Nationally, this equates multiple local, state, national and to one velodrome per 421,000 international events, including people. Western Australia has the 1997 UCI World Track Cycling one velodrome for over 2.5 million Championships.

MIDVALE SPEEDDOME - MIDVALE, WA

ƒƒ Home of all track cycling based clubs Description ƒƒ Training facility for WAIS athletes

Cycling Facilities ƒƒ 250m timber track (recently replaced in 2017)

Location ƒƒ 20km east of Perth CBD

ƒƒ Change rooms and toilets Infrastructure and Services ƒƒ Seating for 1500 spectators ƒƒ Inadequate car parking and supporting infrastructure

21 Use of the SpeedDome declined significant success for Western or near capacity. This is largely significantly following the World Australian riders who have come attributable to its location and Championships and the track was through the high performance affordability: threatened with closure in 2002. system, including Cameron and ƒƒThe isolated and peripheral Since then, however, track cycling Travis Meyer, Luke Durbridge, location at the eastern edge of has experienced a resurgence with Melissa Hoskins, Josie Tomic, Scott Perth means that most people Track Cycling Western Australia Sunderland and Michael Storer who need to travel considerable (TCWA) and WAIS working to have secured multiple world and distance to train, race or spectate. 13 increase participation and develop national track cycling titles. Typically this means that for much clear pathways enabling riders to However, despite a thriving of the state’s population the track progress from local grassroots to development program and strong is neither feasible nor desirable to state, national and international desire within the cycling community use on a regular basis level. This strategy is yielding to participate in track cycling, the ƒƒAccess is generally only results with almost 30,000 people SpeedDome is not operating at practicable by private vehicle with using the velodrome each year and

CASE STUDY 3: ADELAIDE SUPER-DROME - ADELAIDE, SA

ƒƒ International standard indoor velodrome ƒƒ Home of Cycling Australia’s high performance track program ƒƒ Training venue for Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) and South Australia Sports Institute (SASI) Description ƒƒ Administrative centre for Cycling South Australia ƒƒ Significant club and community resource ƒƒ Owned and operated by the Office for Recreation and Sport, an agency of the Government of South Australia

ƒƒ 250m timber track ƒƒ Infield can be configured for a variety of other indoor sports Cycling Facilities ƒƒ Regularly hosts national and international events, including 2014 Track National Championships, the International Track Series and 2015 Oceania Track Championship

ƒƒ Part of the State Sports Park, 12km from Adelaide CBD Location ƒƒ Adjacent to major arterial routes ƒƒ Direct bus access

ƒƒ Cycling South Australia office space, spectator grandstands (2,000 seating and 1,000 Infrastructure and Services standing), food and drink, toilets, showers, change rooms, hospitality suites, gym, professional coaching, sport science/sport medicine, physio, bike hire, on-site car parking

22 bike and public transport access investment resulted in the The majority (45 of 56) of limited or unviable. This can limit installation of a new timber track velodromes in other states and participation and involvement, and a replacement roof. territories are outdoor tracks with particularly amongst young people However, despite the investment, shallow banking (Figure 10). The ƒƒThe building is halfway through issues relating to the SpeedDome’s Western Australian climate is ideal its design life and and in the isolated and peripheral location and for outdoor track cycling, however near future will require a full its poor accessibility will remain. The there are no outdoor facilities replacement facility will also remain unable to suitable for track cycling and racing ƒƒTrack hire costs are considered host World Championships and some in the state. high, especially in comparison other UCI international events due to other state indoor velodromes, to lack of appropriate supporting making hosting events financially infrastructure and services. Without unviable addressing these significant barriers NUMBER OF STATE/TERRITORY Due to the extremely high costs to to participation and use, track VELODROMES hire the facility Western Australia cycling in Western Australia is AUSTRALIA 45 misses out on the significant unlikely to reach its full potential. TAS 8 exposure and potential community Other states have already and economic benefits that hosting recognised the need for NT 2 high level international and national highly accessible indoor track SA 5 track cycling events can bring. The cycling facilities that maximise ACT 1 state’s high performance riders also participation, involvement and miss the valuable experience of use across every stage of the VIC 10 competing at the very highest level performance pathway. The Adelaide NSW 13 on home soil. Super-Drome is an example of QLD 6 In 2017, the State Government an indoor velodrome capable of invested $2.5million to partially hosting national and international WA 0 renovate the SpeedDome. This events (Case Study 3). Figure 10: Outdoor velodromes in Australia

23 CASE STUDY 4: PACKER PARK VELODROME - CARNEIGE, VIC

ƒƒ Community facility and home of Carneige Caulfield Cycling Club Description ƒƒ Owned and managed by Glen Eira City Council ƒƒ Open to the public during daylight hours

Cycling Facilities ƒƒ 335m track around the perimeter of an oval

ƒƒ Suburb of Carneige, south east Melbourne Location ƒƒ Part of Packer Park recreation area

ƒƒ Club rooms Infrastructure and Services ƒƒ Floodlights

These outdoor velodromes are ƒƒUsed throughout the year, subject appropriate velodromes. This typically: to weather conditions network should include existing, ƒƒLocated in recreation areas or The Packer Park Velodrome in revitalised and new facilities, with adjacent to other sporting facilities Carneige, Victoria is an example existing velodromes evaluated for within population centres of a community-level outdoor their suitability for continued use, ƒƒOwned and operated by local velodrome (Case Study 4). reestablishment or upgrading. governments There is significant opportunity ƒƒA valuable skills, training for Western Australia to build and racing resource for local on the rising popularity of track communities and cycling clubs cycling. Growing participation, ƒƒAn excellent introductory base enabling riders to fulfill their for track cycling and a talent potential and securing high level feeder into high performance events is dependent on providing programs based at national and a cohesive, planned network international standard indoor of accessible, sustainable and velodromes

DESIRED IMPROVEMENTS

ƒƒ The number of velodromes in Western Australia meets or ƒƒ Velodromes delivered through detailed facility planning, surpasses the national average using a standardised development process to ensure the ƒƒ An international standard indoor velodrome centrally- right facilities are developed in the right places, in the located in the Perth Metropolitan area that provides for right way and for the right reasons riders at every stage of the cycling pathway from local ƒƒ International and national track cycling events hosted grassroots to international level and can host national regularly in Western Australia, with the elite National and international events Championships held at least every five years ƒƒ A statewide network of accessible outdoor velodromes ƒƒ Velodromes are delivered as part of cycling facility hubs that provide training and racing opportunities for local where appropriate communities and cycling clubs ƒƒ A cost structure that makes hosting events financially ƒƒ Western Australian Institute of Sport (WAIS) Developing viable Champions program access to appropriate and safe track cycling facilities is safeguarded ƒƒ Locations for new, reestablished or upgraded velodromes identified and prioritised by discipline masterplanning that is underpinned by extensive consultation and involvement with key stakeholders

24 BMX RACING Western Australia’s BMX racing WHAT IS BMX RACING? Membership at state level doubled community is the second largest in during the same period.5 Western BMX racing started in the early Australia, with more young people Australian riders now account 1970s and is one of the youngest participating than in any form for over 20% of the national forms of sport cycling. BMX racing of other sport cycling. We have membership base, making the takes place on purpose-built single- a strong development program state’s BMX community the second lap tracks. Tracks are typically and our athletes are competitive largest in Australia. constructed from compacted dirt at national and world level. This and asphalt, have a start ramp BMX racing in Western Australia is despite not having a track with and feature tabletops, gap jumps has a young demographic, with 84% an 8m start ramp, the required and rhythm sections. The winner of riders under 20 years old and standard for elite-level training ibid is the first rider to cross the finish 60% between 2 and 10 years old. and competition. We are seeing line. BMX racing differs from BMX The discipline is widely recognised an exodus of our top athletes to Freestyle where riders perform as a primary gateway in bike riding the eastern states and overseas as tricks. BMX Freestyle is not for young people, with participating, they seek locations that do have considered as part of this Review. training and competing in BMX the facilities that they require. building skills, physical attributes Participation in BMX racing has We need a statewide network of and tactical knowledge. Skills increased dramatically since dedicated community-level BMX developed through BMX racing are the discipline made its Olympic tracks to increase participation also readily transferrable to other debut at the 2008 Beijing Games and tracks with 8m start ramps to cycling disciplines with multiple and Australia is now the second provide a world-class home for our elite cyclists, including 12-time Tour largest BMX nation in the world. high performance athletes and host de France stage winner Robbie Membership of BMX Australia international and national events. McEwen and 6-time Olympic (BMXA) has almost tripled since champion track cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, 2008 (6,800 members in 2008. beginning their careers in BMX. 19,000 members in 2015).14

25 BMX TRACKS IN in Western Australia varies.The BMX Australia has been operating WESTERN AUSTRALIA majority of tracks are able to host with special dispensation from the state-level events, however there UCI to run national championships There are no international or are no BMX tracks that meet and national series events on national standard BMX tracks in international event standards or tracks with only a 5m start ramp. Western Australia. We are losing fully meet national event standards. The WestSide BMX Club in Balcatta our top riders to the eastern states The UCI, BMX racing’s world hosted Rounds 5 and 6 of the 2015 and overseas as there is nowhere governing body, requires a 8m National Series and Rounds 3 and appropriate for them to train and start ramp for elite class racing 4 of the 2014 National Series on race. We are also unable to host and recommends that any BMX this basis. international and national events. tracks where high performance However, the UCI regulation is likely Western Australia currently has riders train and compete should be to be strictly enforced in future, and 19 BMX tracks that are in active this length. There are no tracks in BMX tracks without an 8m start use for training and racing and are Western Australia with an 8m start ramp will be ineligible to host any home to a BMX club (Figure 11). ramp. The UCI also set minimum national level events. Major events The majority of tracks are located international and national event will be held in other states and in the southwestern corner requirements for spectator seating territories at BMX tracks meeting of the state with the highest and associated infrastructure, the required standards. Western concentration in the southern including car parking availability. Australia will miss out on the suburbs of the Perth Metropolitan There are no BMX tracks in significant exposure and potential region. The South West and Western Australia that meet these community and economic benefits Pilbara regions are also hotspots requirements. As such, the state that hosting international and for BMX racing. is unable to host UCI sanctioned national events can bring. The state’s The condition of the riding surface international events and has very high performance riders will also miss and the available infrastructure limited capacity to host national the valuable experience of competing and services at each BMX track level events. at the highest level on home soil.

REGION NAME OF BMX TRACK LOCAL GOVERNMENT BMX CLUB

ƒƒ Balcatta ƒƒ Stirling ƒƒ Westside Perth Metropolitan (North) ƒƒ Wanneroo ƒƒ Wanneroo ƒƒ Wanneroo

ƒƒ Bibra Lake ƒƒ Cockburn ƒƒ Cockburn ƒƒ Bull Creek ƒƒ Melville ƒƒ Southside Perth Metropolitan (South) ƒƒ Lesmurdie ƒƒ Kalamunda ƒƒ Hills ƒƒ Medina ƒƒ Kwinana ƒƒ Southern Districts ƒƒ Rockingham ƒƒ Rockingham ƒƒ Rockingham

ƒƒ Byford ƒƒ Serpentine-Jarrahdale ƒƒ Byford Peel ƒƒ Mandurah ƒƒ Mandurah ƒƒ Mandurah

ƒƒ Bunbury ƒƒ Bunbury ƒƒ Bunbury South West ƒƒ Cowaranup ƒƒ Augusta-Margaret River ƒƒ Cowaramup ƒƒ Margaret River ƒƒ Augusta-Margaret River ƒƒ Margaret River

Wheatbelt ƒƒ Northam ƒƒ Northam ƒƒ Northam

Goldfields-Esperance ƒƒ Kalgoorlie ƒƒ Kalgoorlie-Boulder ƒƒ Eastern Goldfields

Mid West ƒƒ Geraldton ƒƒ Geraldton ƒƒ Woorree Park

ƒƒ East Pilbara ƒƒ East Pilbara ƒƒ East Pilbara ƒƒ Karratha ƒƒ Karratha ƒƒ Karratha Pilbara ƒƒ Port Hedland ƒƒ Port Hedland ƒƒ Hedland ƒƒ Tom Price ƒƒ Ashburton ƒƒ Tom Price

* There are BMX tracks in Narrogin, Collie and Albany but they unusable for training and racing Figure 11: BMX tracks in Western Australia

26 With the discipline based on performance riders have already compete against and be inspired by explosive power and high speed relocated interstate or overseas high performance athletes. skills, the performance of a rider on in order to train and race regularly Other states have already the start ramp can have a significant on international and national recognised the need for BMX tracks influence on the outcome of a race. standard BMX tracks. The continued facilities that cater for every stage of The lack of opportunities to train failure to meet the facility needs the performance pathway and meet on an 8m start ramp in the state of riders will likely exacerbate this the needs of their high performance immediately places our riders at a drain of talent, undermining the riders. The Sleeman BMX Supercross disadvantage against competitors state’s future ability to deliver on Track in Brisbane, Queensland is an who are able to regularly train the global and Australian stage example of a BMX track capable of and race on a higher ramp. A and removing the opportunity for hosting national and international number of Western Australian high grassroots riders to train alongside, events (Case Study 5).

CASE STUDY 5: SLEEMAN BMX SUPERCROSS TRACK - BRISBANE, QLD

ƒƒ International standard outdoor BMX track Description ƒƒ Training venue of BMX Queensland ƒƒ Significant club and community resource

ƒƒ Dual 5m and 8m start ramps Cycling Facilities ƒƒ Hosts local, state, national and international racing, including 2013, 2015 and 2017 BMX National Championships

Location ƒƒ Located at Sleeman Sports Complex, 15km from Brisbane CBD

ƒƒ Access to toilets, showers, change rooms, function areas, gym, professional coaching, Infrastructure and Services sport science/sport medicine, physio, on-site car parking, on-site athlete accommodation ƒƒ $4.2 million build cost

27 There is significant opportunity for Western Australia to build on the DESIRED IMPROVEMENTS rising popularity of BMX racing. ƒƒ An international standard BMX track centrally-located in the Perth Growing participation, enabling Metropolitan area that provides for riders at every stage of the cycling riders to fulfill their potential pathway from local grassroots to international level and can host national and securing high level events is and international events dependent on providing a cohesive, ƒƒ At least one BMX track with dual 5m and 8m start ramps in each region, planned network of accessible, beginning with the Perth Metropolitan, South West and Pilbara BMX racing sustainable and appropriate BMX hotspots tracks in local communities across ƒƒ A statewide network of accessible BMX tracks that provide training and the state. This network should racing opportunities for local communities and BMX clubs include existing, revitalised and new ƒƒ Existing BMX tracks, and supporting infrastructure and services, are facilities, with existing BMX tracks safeguarded and improved where appropriate evaluated for their suitability for ƒƒ Locations for new, reestablished, upgraded and consolidated BMX tracks continued use, reestablishment or identified and prioritised by discipline master planning that is underpinned upgrading. by extensive consultation and involvement with key stakeholders Discipline master planning should ƒƒ BMX tracks delivered through detailed facility planning, using a standardised development process to ensure the right facilities are developed in the right be used to guide the development places, in the right way and for the right reasons of the network. This should include ƒ the identification and prioritisation ƒ International and national BMX events hosted regularly in Western Australia, with at least one round of the National Series held each year and the of locations capable of supporting National Championships held at least every five years international and national training ƒƒ BMX tracks are delivered as part of cycling facility hubs where appropriate and racing. Focus should also be given to maximising availability and accessibility to BMX tracks in areas with a young demographic and exploring opportunities to support the reestablishment of facilities that are currently disused.

28 RECREATIONAL CYCLING Recreational cycling is a major part Australia, providing a significant – leisure riders and sport riders of the cycling culture in Western resource for leisure and training (Figure 12). Each type has their Australia. As well as providing a rides. This importance shall own characteristics and there is valuable resource for leisure riders, continue even with increased a need to develop recreational the state’s road, bike lane and availability and accessibility of cycling routes appropriate to their shared path network also provides dedicated facilities for road racing, different habits and aspirations to a provide a training environment track cycling and BMX racing. ensure safe and high quality riding for riders from all competitive Two broad types of recreational experiences for everyone. sport cycling disciplines. We must cyclists exist in Western Australia work to ensure that road, bike lane and shared path developments consider the specific requirements LEISURE RIDERS SPORT RIDERS of recreational cyclists. Typically: Typically: ƒƒ Use shared paths and on-road ƒƒ Use the road and on-road bike lanes WHAT IS bike lanes ƒƒ Ride for training and fitness RECREATIONAL ƒƒ Ride for pleasure and fitness ƒƒ Experienced and confident CYCLING? ƒƒ Range of experience and confidence ƒƒ High speed Recreational cycling is the generic ƒƒ Low to moderate speed ƒƒ Ride in medium to large groups name given to any form of non- ƒƒ Ride as individuals or in small groups ƒƒ Ride early morning, weekdays transport and non-competitive ƒƒ Ride morning and afternoon, and weekends cycling that uses the state’s road, weekdays and weekends ƒƒ Regularly use the same routes bike lane and shared path networks. ƒƒ Select routes based on safety and ƒƒ Select routes based on efficiency, These networks are critical to quality of experience connectivity and safety recreational cycling in Western Figure 12: Types of recreation cyclists in Western Australia

29 PROVISION FOR amongst young people and less ƒƒThe purpose of the route RECREATIONAL experienced riders ƒƒLocation ƒƒIncrease the risk of confrontation ƒƒRider type CYCLING IN WESTERN between cyclists, motor vehicles ƒƒConnectivity AUSTRALIA and pedestrians ƒƒTypes and extent of traffic Road, bike lane and shared path ƒƒReduce connectivity between management treatments developments in Western Australia areas where people want to ride ƒƒSpeed limits to date have largely focused on ƒƒAdversely affect the quality and ƒƒSignage – directional and warning bikes as a mode of transport and enjoyment of a ride. ƒƒSurfacing – treatments and route infrastructure has been planned, Establishing the right routes in markings. designed and constructed with little right places, in the right way and The recreational cycling route regard to the specific requirements for the right reasons is central to hierarchy should be driven by local of recreational cyclists. The the development of an effective conditions and reflect best practice. behaviour and usage patterns of recreational cycling network. This is A number of agencies, including transport cyclists can, however, achievable through the use of route the Department of Transport, differ markedly from recreational hierarchy, with routes categorised Main Roads Western Australia and cyclists. The lack of tailored depending on their characteristics Austroads, have already developed provision for cycling as a leisure and associated infrastructure. guidelines for cycling infrastructure and sport activity can: A recreational cycling route development. However, whilst ƒƒIncrease hazards and foster hierarchy should be defined with valuable, these documents concerns about safety. This parameters established for the primarily focus on cycling for can be a significant barrier different hierarchical tiers. These transport and also differ in some to participation, particularly should include, but not be limited to: policies, recommendations and approach. Such discrepancies can foster uncertainty during planning,

30 design and delivery and result in inappropriate infrastructure and cycling routes that change in character, such as across different local government areas. A unified set of aspirational guidelines for recreational cycling infrastructure should be developed in partnership with key stakeholders. These guidelines should feed into the development of the recreational cycling route hierarchy and be promoted widely to maximise buy-in and roll out. Through wide application of the hierarchy by the agencies Figure 13: Strava heat map of popular recreational cyclists routes in Perth. Note the high activity in Kings responsible for the road, bike Park and around the Swan River foreshore (Strava Metro) lane and shared path network, shared path network (Figure 13). the guidelines will maximise DESIRED IMPROVEMENTS the likelihood that recreational Recreational rider GPS data should cycling routes across the state be used in the establishment and ƒƒ Development of recreational are consistent with no noticeable application of the route hierarchy cycling routes is underpinned change between different local to ensure that informed cycling by a recreational cycling government areas and are infrastructure decisions that route hierarchy and unified infrastructure guidelines appropriate to the requirements of accurately reflect the behaviours of ƒ recreational cyclists. recreational riders are made. ƒ Increased provision of recreational cycling routes that meet the needs Mobile apps and GPS trackers (e.g. of leisure and sport recreation Strava, MapMyRide) offer a useful cyclists, along with the rapidly tool for investigating the movement growing cycle tourism market patterns, volumes and habits of ƒƒ Recreational cyclist GPS recreational riders, including how data used to inform cycling and when they use the road and infrastructure decisions

31 CYCLING FACILITY HUBS Clustering facilities for multiple cycling disciplines together in hubs creates opportunities to share infrastructure and services, knowledge, staff and running costs. Hubs can form important community resources, increase participation and facilitate crossover between disciplines. We need to create a statewide network of cycling facility hubs to optimise the provision of dedicated facilities and maximise participation. WHAT ARE CYCLING FACILITY HUBS? Cycling facility hubs cluster facilities through shared infrastructure and the provision of safe, accessible for multiple cycling disciplines services, cross-use, knowledge- and sustainable dedicated facilities together on the same site or in sharing, joint training, shared staff by maximising participation, very close proximity. A hub should and running costs. usage, value and vitality. It is provide for at least two disciplines. recommended that the network The benefits of cycling facility CYCLING HUBS IN comprises a primary state hub hubs are significant. Whilst WESTERN AUSTRALIA supported by a series of regional each discipline requires distinct hubs, local hubs and individual A hierarchical network of accessible, facilities and has specific technical facilities (Figure 14). Figure 15 sets high quality cycling facility hubs requirements, hubs provide the minimum requirements for each should be developed across opportunities for integration and hierarchical level. interaction between disciplines Western Australia. This will optimise

Local Local

Regional Individual Facility

State Local

Regional Individual Facility

Figure 14: Hierarchical network of cycling facility hubs

32 STATE CYCLING HUB REGIONAL CYCLING HUB LOCAL CYCLING HUB

The home of cycling in Western ƒƒ National, regional and local ƒƒ Regional and local events Australia. events venue venue ƒƒ International, national, ƒƒ Regional base for WAIS and ƒƒ Club and community resource regional and local events Western Australian state venue team athletes ƒƒ Primary training venue for ƒƒ Club and community resource Western Australian Institute Description of Sport (WAIS) Developing Champions program and Western Australian state team athletes ƒƒ Administrative centre for WestCycle and member organisations ƒƒ Club and community resource

ƒƒ Provision for at least 3 ƒƒ Provision for at least 2 ƒƒ Provision for at least 2 different cycling disciplines different cycling disciplines different cycling disciplines ƒƒ At least 1 facility built to ƒƒ At least 1 facility built to ƒƒ At least 1 facility built to international standard national standard regional standard ƒƒ At least 1 facility built to ƒƒ At least 1 facility built to ƒƒ Other facilities built to at least national standard regional standard local standard Cycling Facilities ƒƒ Other facilities built to at least ƒƒ Other facilities built to at least ƒƒ Links to recreational cycling regional standard local standard routes desirable ƒƒ Links to recreational cycling ƒƒ Links to recreational cycling ƒƒ Links to mountain bike trails routes desirable routes desirable desirable ƒƒ Links to mountain bike trails ƒƒ Links to mountain bike trails desirable desirable

ƒƒ Centrally located in the Perth ƒƒ At least one in every Western ƒƒ Within or in close proximity to Metropolitan region Australian region a small population centre or ƒƒ High profile site with excellent ƒƒ Within or in close proximity large community access by bike and public to a large or small population ƒƒ Good access by bike and links transport and links to major centre to road network roads Location ƒƒ Well connected site with good ƒƒ Good access by public ƒƒ Connections to other access by bike and public transport desirable recreation, sport and transport and links to major ƒƒ Connections to other community facilities desirable roads recreation, sport and ƒƒ Connections to other community facilities desirable recreation, sport and community facilities desirable

Office space, spectator Food and drink (kiosks, café), Food and drink (kiosk), toilets, grandstands, food and drink toilets, showers, change rooms, clubroom, club coaches, on-site (kiosks, cafés, restaurants, bars), function area, clubroom, gym, car parking desirable toilets, showers, change rooms, access to professional coaching Infrastructure function areas, clubrooms, staff, bike hire, on-site car and Services gym, professional coaching, parking sport science/sport medicine, physio, bike hire and sales accommodation

ƒƒ High quality buildings, ƒƒ Good quality buildings, ƒƒ Good quality buildings, structures and landscapes structures and landscapes structures and landscapes Development Quality ƒƒ Distinctive, innovative and ƒƒ Sustainable design and ƒƒ Sustainable design and sustainable design and construction construction construction

Figure 15: Minimum requirements for cycling hubs in Western Australia

33 CASE STUDY 6: SLEEMAN SPORTS COMPLEX - BRISBANE, QLD

ƒƒ Administrative centre and training venue of Cycling Queensland and BMX Queensland Description ƒƒ A significant club and community resource for track and BMX ƒƒ Includes facilities for other sport, recreation and entertainment activities

ƒƒ International standard outdoor BMX track, with dual 5m and 8m start ramps and a comprehensive activity program for riders of all abilities (beginner to elite). The track regularly hosts national level events and will host the BMX competition for the Gold Coast Cycling Facilities 2018 Commonwealth Games ƒƒ International standard indoor velodrome. The track will host the track cycling completion for the Commonwealth Games and is jointed funded by Queensland Government and Australian Government. This track will replace the site’s existing outdoor velodrome

ƒƒ Brisbane Aquatic Centre, 2,700-seat indoor sports arena, State Gymnastics Training Hall, Other Facilities State Weightlifting Centre, 1,500-seat Chandler Theatre

ƒƒ 15km from Brisbane CBD ƒƒ 15km from Brisbane Airport Location ƒƒ Direct bus access ƒƒ Adjacent to major arterial routes

ƒƒ Cycling Queensland and BMX Queensland office space, spectator grandstands, food and Infrastructure and Services drink, toilets, showers, change rooms, hospitality suites, gym, professional coaching, sport science/sport medicine, physio, on-site car parking, on-site athlete accommodation

34 Cycling facility hubs may be new or Other states have already involve the revitalisation of existing recognised the value of cycling DESIRED cycling facilities. Opportunities to facility hubs. The Sleeman Sports IMPROVEMENTS incorporate other recreational, Complex in Brisbane, Queensland is ƒƒ A statewide hierarchical network sport and community facilities or an example of a state-level cycling of cycling facility hubs, with to link with other existing sport/ hub (Case Study 6). each hub providing facilities for recreation facility hubs should also Masterplanning is fundamental multiple cycling disciplines plus be explored. to the establishment of the shared services and infrastructure The number, types and standard statewide hierarchical network ƒƒ A state cycling facility hub of facilities provided at each hub of cycling facility hubs. It should centrally-located in the Perth Metropolitan area will vary depending on the needs be undertaken to identify and of the community, the activities prioritise locations where different ƒƒ At least one cycling facility hub in the north, south, east and west and potential catchment of users levels of hubs should be delivered, of the Perth Metropolitan region and the hierarchical standard of drawing on any masterplanning ƒƒ At least one regional cycling surrounding hubs and individual undertaken for individual cycling facility hub in every region facilities. Not all disciplines will be disciplines. Detailed facility planning of Western Australia, with provided for at each hub. Equally should then be undertaken to guide supporting local hubs as the hub may contain facilities of and facilitate the delivery of hubs appropriate different standards. identified by masterplanning. ƒƒ Existing cycling facility hubs evaluated for their suitability for continued use, revitalisation or consolidation ƒƒ Locations for cycling facility hubs identified and prioritised by masterplanning that is underpinned by extensive consultation and involvement with key stakeholders ƒƒ Cycling facility hubs delivered through detailed facility planning, using a standardised development process to ensure the right facilities are developed in the right places, in the right way and for the right reasons

35 03 MOVING FORWARD

36 OUR VISION IS FOR WESTERN AUSTRALIA TO HAVE A NETWORK OF DEDICATED, SAFE AND ACCESSIBLE SPORT AND RECREATION CYCLING FACILITIES. A NETWORK THAT SUPPORTS RECREATIONAL RIDING, TRAINING AND COMPETITION AT EVERY STAGE OF EVERY CYCLING PATHWAY.

WE NEED TO: OBJECTIVE 1 OBJECTIVE 2 OBJECTIVE 3 BUILD SUPPORT FOR DEVELOP THE RIGHT DELIVER FACILITIES CYCLING FACILITIES FACILITIES IN THE RIGHT CONSISTENTLY We need to turn Western Australia PLACES We need to apply a standardised into a place where sport and We need to deliver sport and process across every stage of recreation cycling facilities are as recreation cycling facilities that are sport and recreation cycling facility widely supported, accepted and appropriate to the needs, aspirations development to ensure consistent encouraged as facilities for other and potential of our riders and high quality and sustainability. recreation and sport activities. communities, now and in the future.

STRATEGIES STRATEGIES STRATEGIES

1.1 Quantify and advocate the 2.1 Undertake discipline 3.1 Establish and implement a benefits and value of sport and masterplanning to identify and staged development process to recreation cycling facilities to prioritise locations for road racing, guide detailed facility planning key stakeholders, decision- track cycling and BMX racing, 3.2 Define the recreational cycling makers and our communities including cycling facility hubs route hierarchy, establishing 1.2 Encourage and facilitate the 2.2 Undertake detailed facility parameters for the different development of state and local planning to deliver at locations hierarchical tiers government strategies, plans identified by discipline 3.3 Develop and promote guidelines and policies that recognise and masterplanning for recreational cycling support the development of 2.3 Pursue revitalisation and infrastructure sport and recreation cycling upgrading of existing facilities facilities where appropriate 2.4 Pursue facility consolidation and rationalisation where appropriate 2.5 Apply minimum requirements to new and revitalised cycling facility hubs 2.6 Apply appropriate governing standards to new and revitalised event venues 2.7 Facilitate the application of the recreational cycling route hierarchy in all infrastructure development

37 GLOSSARY

38 Bicycling Western Australia (BWA) A community-based cycling advocacy organisation and event promoter.

BMX Australia (BMXA) The national governing body for competitive BMX.

BMX Sports Western Australia (BMXWA) The peak body for competitive BMX in Western Australia.

CycleSport Western Australia (CSWA) The peak body for competitive and recreational road and track in Western Australia.

Cycling Australia The national governing body for competitive and recreational cycling.

Main Roads Western Australia The agency responsible for Western Australia’s highways and main roads.

Track Cycling Western Australia A community organisation focused on increasing track participation.

UCI Union Cycliste Internationale/International Cycling Union. The world governing body for competitive cycling.

WAMBA West Australian Mountain Bike Association. The representative body for mountain biking in Western Australia

Western Australian Institute of Sport An elite sports institute to support high performance athletes (WAIS) in Western Australia.

WestCycle The peak body for cycling in Western Australia.

39 REFERENCES

40 1. Roy Morgan Research. (2015). The Top 20 sports played by Aussies young and old(er). Available at: http://www.roymorgan.com/findings/6123-australian-sports-participation-rates-among-children- and-adults-december-2014-201503182151

2. Australian Bicycle Council. (2017). National Cycling Participation Survey. Available at: http://www.bicyclecouncil.com.au/publication/national-cycling-participation-survey-2017

3. Cycling Australia. (2015). 2015 Annual Report. Available at: http://www.cycling.org.au/Portals/10/CA_2015_AnnualReport_FINALemail.pdf

4. Cycling Australia. (2011). 2011 Annual Report. Available at: www.slideshare.net/cyclingaust/2011-cycling-australia-annual-report

5. BMX Sports Western Australia. (2014). 2013-2014 Annual Report. Available at: www.bmxsportswa.com.au/wpcontent/uploads/2013/12/2013-2014-Annual-Report-BMXWA.pdf

6. WestCycle. (2015). Western Australian Mountain Bike Strategy. Available at: http://www.westcycle.org.au/images/WesternAustralianMountainBikeStrategy.pdf

7. Bicycling Western Australia. (2014). 2014 Annual Report. Available at: www.bwa.org.au/file/file/AGM%202013/ANNUAL%20REPORT%202014%20(website).pdf

8. Triathlon Western Australia. (2015). Annual Report 2014 – 2015 Season. Available at: http://www.triathlon.org.au/AssetFactory.aspx?vid=73593

9. Department of Transport. (2014). Western Australian Bicycle Network Plan 2014 – 2031. Available at: http://www.transport.wa.gov.au/mediaFiles/active-transport/AT_CYC_P_WABN_Plan.pdf

10. WestCycle. (2014). Our Bike Path 2014 – 2020: A Strategic Framework for Cycling in Western Australia. Available at: http://www.westcycle.org.au/images/pdf/Our_Bike_Path_FINAL.pdf

11. Main Roads Western Australia. (2015). Example Traffic Management Plan for On—Road Bicycle Race. Available at: https://www.mainroads.wa.gov.au/Documents/Example%20Traffic%20Management%20 Plan%20for%20On%20Road%20Bicycle%20Race.u_2056898r_1n_D08%5E23183782.PDF

12. CycleSport Western Australia. (2015). Events Calendar. Available at: http://wa.cycling.org.au/Events-Results/Events-Calendar

13. Venues West. (2015). SpeedDome Patronage Figures. Supplied.

14. BMX Australia. (2015). 2015 Annual Report. Available at: http://www.bmxaustralia.com.au/Portals/39/Documents/Events/2016%20Nationals/2015%20 BMX%20AUSTRALIA%20ANNUAL%20REPORT.pdf

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