Funding Boost for Complete Cycle Link from Brisbane to Border

Brisbane, Queensland

Planning for a complete cycle link from Brisbane to the NSW border has been boosted by Queensland Government funding announced last week.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the $200,000 project would deliver a 10-year vision for a connected coast on two wheels.

A new separated bikeway from Varsity Lakes to Burleigh was officially opened last week, heralded by Bicycle Queensland as a step towards the State Government’s long-term vision of a separated bikeway from Brisbane to the border.

A masterplan for the Brisbane to border connection is expected to be available for public consideration next year.

He said the link would incorporate improvements already being delivered as part of major transport projects on the M1, the $2.1 billion Coomera Connector and several rail upgrades.

It will connect with Brisbane’s existing Veloway 1, a dedicated, 20-kilometre cycleway providing a safe and efficient route for bike riders from Lower River Terrace in South Brisbane to Underwood.

“Currently, there is a V1-signed route beyond Underwood along the M1 to Helensvale, but this requires bike riders to use a mix of service roads with mostly on-road bike lanes, and some sections with no facilities for riders,” he added.

“We know about 1.5 million Queenslanders would be interested in riding if the conditions were right, which is why my department is developing a plan to fill the gaps and improve bike-riding infrastructure along this route.

“The major projects we’re delivering right now from Brisbane to the Gold Coast have dramatically changed the landscape and potential for active transport links.

“This masterplan will identify opportunities to achieve a safe and attractive off-road active transport route from Brisbane to Coolangatta, and across the coast by utilising existing projects,” the Minister said.

“This could include major projects on the state-controlled network, and active transport connections delivered by local governments.

“All gaps in the network will be identified and we can get on with the jobs of filling them.”

He said the link would not only make riding safer for Queenslanders, but opened up the region for events such as the Brisbane to Gold Coast riding challenge or new routes for Tour de Brisbane.

“These events bring people into Brisbane and stimulate our growing economy, so more opportunity can only be a good thing,” the Minister said.

Bicycle Queensland CEO Rebecca Randazzo said a connected cycling route from Brisbane to the border would be a win for cycle tourism, and a great step forward for bike riders in Logan and the Gold Coast.

“The success of the V1 bikeway shows that where high quality cycling infrastructure is provided, bike riding quickly increases,” Rebecca said.

“This is an ambitious project, through the heart of a growth corridor. It’s great to see the State Government’s commitment to ensuring that people in this rapidly changing part of Queensland can choose to get around by cycling, scooting and walking.”