Fully pumped: Ballina’s new pump track opens in time for Christmas
Ballina’s long-awaited pump track at Kingsford Smith Park was officially opened today, but the riding never stopped during the ceremony.
Eager kids were already circling the track as speeches were delivered, many having used the facility unofficially over the past couple of weeks.
Others arrived early on bikes and scooters, keen to be among the first back on once security fencing was removed.
Mayor Sharon Cadwallader declared the $1.8 million facility open, embracing the festive mood by dressing as Mrs Claus.
“This really is a Christmas gift for Ballina,” she said, as she cut the red ribbon alongside fellow councillors.
“And judging by how busy it already is, it’s been well worth the wait.”
A track years in the making
Council staff told the crowd the project had been a long-term vision, involving planning under the Kingford Smith master plan, land acquisition, approvals, procurement and construction.
The pump track was delivered with support from the state government and extensive input from council staff, contractors and community stakeholders.
Built for all ages and abilities
The facility includes a 260-metre main track built to national competition standards, along with a separate junior track designed for younger and less experienced riders.
Spectator areas, shelters, seating, bike stands, drinking fountains and a bike maintenance workstation are also part of the site.
Mayor Cadwallader said the track was designed to encourage skill development, safety and community connection.
“This is a first-class, competition-level facility right in the heart of Ballina,” she said.
Designed for Ballina conditions
The Mayor highlighted features that go beyond the riding surface, including native landscaping, new shade trees and a purpose-built underground stormwater system.
She said the drainage design was critical for managing heavy rainfall and overland flow, particularly during intense weather events.
Timber seating at the site has been built using reclaimed hardwood from the former Missingham Bridge and the Teven bridges, preserving local history within the new space.
World-class endorsement
In the lead-up to the opening, world champion riders Sabina Kozakova and Ryan Gilchrist were invited to trial the track.
Both riders reportedly described the Ballina facility as fast and comparable with some of the best pump tracks internationally.
Funding and community input
The project received $733,000 in grant funding from the NSW Government, with Ballina Shire Council contributing the majority of the cost.
Mayor Cadwallader thanked community members who helped shape the design, along with council staff and contractors who delivered the project.
As speeches wrapped up and photos were taken, the riders never left the track, a fitting sign of how quickly the new facility has been embraced.
The track contains three circuits catering to all levels.
Main photo: L to R: Councillors Eva Ramsey, Michelle Bailey, Erin Karsten, Phil Meehan, Mayor Cadwallader, Deputy Mayor Damian Loone and Simon Kinny.
