Marketing Bike Riding For Regional Economic Benefit

In Victoria’s beautiful East Gippsland, mountain biking (MTB) is growing in a serious way, writes Michael Oxer coordinator of the East Gippsland Bike Users Group. Informal networks of interested persons are developing and the region has huge potential for the full range of MTB activities BUT to gain the economic – as well as health – benefits, coordination is needed says Michael.

Look At What The Scots Are Doing!

Other areas around the world, such as South Scotland’s 7 Stanes, are taking up the challenge and establishing reputations which are attracting riders from far afield.

“The Scots have turned MTB marketing into an art form, with significant economic benefits!” says Michael.

Regional Tourism Groups Should Take Note

First of all the ‘spin’:

” Ride the 7 Stanes…Big country riding, rolling hills, views to die for and mile upon mile of technical singletrack – it’s all here in the south of Scotland.

Some of the world’s best biking, guaranteed, with great local accommodation, food and fine local ales make visiting the 7 stanes a must.

Come and spend a while in Scotland’s biking heaven!

And then, check out the website to:
Compare and contrast, via a quick colour-coded trail grade guide, to help you decide where to ride, plus:

# Trail conditions
# Getting there
# Skills & riding tips
# Accommodation & services
# Business pages – direct link to the Scottish Enterprise Business Gateway.

Also Doing Well, The East Gippy Bike Users Group Website And Newsletter

In the new May 2008 Newsletter Michael covers:
• Local Rail Trail news
• Grants available for Bike Sheds for Primary Schools
• Secure Bike parking inside buildings
• Some ‘heavy’ technical stuff

And

From Namibia – How A Simple Bike Can Change Lives

Bicycling Empowerment Network (BEN) Namibia, is one of the largest bicycling initiatives providing mobility to health workers in Africa. To date BEN Namibia has distributed over 4000 bikes, trained more than 1000 bike mechanics, established eight community-run bike workshops throughout the country, designed and distributed more than 70 bike ambulances, started a cycling team promoting HIV awareness and is engaged in improving bike infrastructure in the capital. For more info go to www.benbikes.org.za/namibia.

Are you part of a regional Australian bike/tourism/economic development effort? Love to hear…