‘Their vision in dirt’: Local youth inspires Port MacDonnell bike track
First proposed by teen Jett Lewis as a dedicated space for older kids, the Port MacDonnell dirt mountain bike track is just one community project directed by local youth.
Jett Lewis, Mayor Kylie Boston and Brevet Sergeant John Carroll admiring the newly constructed dirt mountain bike track at Port MacDonnell. Photo: supplied
At a February 2023 meeting of the District Council of Grant, 15-year-old Lewis proposed upgrades to the unused and inaccessible Port MacDonnell mountain bike track.
“The new playground caters for the younger kids, and the pump track is quite small when there is a large group of kids,” Lewis said in his presentation.
“As kids get older they don’t want to do those same things.”
Lewis’s idea for a dedicated place for teenagers was supported by police Brevet Sergeant John Carroll.
“I’m proud of the way he stood before all the council members and told his story and explained his proposition,” Carroll said.
Following further consultation with Lewis, the council identified an alternative site for a new track and committed $15,000 to build the free, public recreation space that accommodates different skill levels.
The new track is around 225 metres long with a series of jumps and turns and was designed in collaboration with local youth.
“It’s essentially their vision in dirt,” District Council of Grant Chief Executive Officer Darryl Whicker said.
The track has seen significant use throughout the summer and Whicker hopes it will continue to encourage young people to be productive in the community.
Mayor Kylie Boston said the bike track was “a really great outcome providing local and visiting children with an additional outdoor activity to keep them active and having fun”.
Boston hoped local youth would continue to bring their creative ideas forward and “help generate positive change in our community”.
The District Council of Grant previously collaborated with local youth on the neighbouring waterfront playground and environmental signs near the boat ramps.
They will also partner with the Limestone Coast Local Government Association to consult youth on other development opportunities.
“We will continue to celebrate the terrific ideas and contributions of our young people,” Whicker said.
“It should inspire people that council is approachable, that we’re willing to listen, and we’re willing to work alongside you.”
Plans to upgrade the amenity and install shade structures and seating near the track are under consideration.
The track is publicly accessible between 10 and 12 Elizabeth Street, Port MacDonnell.
