PROPOSAL
The Pemberton Arboretum is a 60-ha parcel of State Forest adjoining the Pemberton townsite. It comprises a mixture of native forest and exotic tree plots. The concept plan proposes up to 20km of mountain bike trails, dual use trails, and exclusive walking trails. The aim is to cater for all levels of riders with a majority of Green (easy) and Blue (intermediate) trail. The concept utilizes the natural topography and magnificent stands of trees in the area. The development will also include picnic facilities for a range of visitors to enjoy the site.
BACKGROUND
In 2017 the “Southwest Mountain Bike Masterplan” identified Pemberton as one of five potential Trail Town Hubs. The plan described the benefits and opportunities to the towns that comes with trail development. Recent examples of where trails have increased tourism and town vitality include Collie, Dwellingup and Margaret River.
More recently a “Pemberton Trails Masterplan” has been prepared and can be viewed on this link - 210219 PEMBERTON TRAILS MASTER PLAN DRAFT LOW RES.pdf (manjimup.wa.gov.au). The plan incorporated feedback from the community from an open public meeting and information session. This plan identifies the Pemberton Arboretum as one of 4 key priority areas that could be developed for trails in the Pemberton area.
WHAT IS HAPPENING NOW?
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) has recently engaged Magic Dirt contractors to develop a concept plan for trail development in the Pemberton Arboretum area. This concept plan assesses site suitability and provides initial trail alignments and classifications. Currently there is no funding to progress any trail construction, but it is envisaged that a formalized plan will place the Department in a sound position to attract future funding.
HOW CAN YOU CONTRIBUTE?
As part of the public consultation process, the Department is seeking feedback on the trail concepts in the flyer. Do you have any ideas you feel should be considered in the design of the Pemberton Arboretum trails park? Now is the time to let us know what you think.
If you have a strong interest in this concept, you may like to be part of an advisory group that will help guide the project planning, attraction of funding and implementation. If so, we invite you to provide an Expression of Interest to join the Pemberton Arboretum Trails Steering Committee. All nominations can be emailed to the project manager David Meehan at the email address david.meehan@dbca.wa.gov.au. Any feedback on the attached concept plan can also be emailed to this address. The closing date for feedback and nominations is the 4 November 2021.
Alternatively, if you would like further information or to discuss this project, please contact David Meehan on 0427441628.
David Meehan
Parks and Visitor Services Coordinator
DBCA – Parks and Wildlife Service - Donnelly District
