Bike safety message on track

The wheels are turning to transform a Bunbury park into a bicycle education track.

Bellemore Park in South Bunbury will be resurfaced and road markings, mock street signage and additional road rules signage will be installed.

The track is set to be used by community members to learn about the road rules and how to be responsible cyclists.

The unique initiative is the brainchild of the Apex Club of Bunbury Koombana, which first approached Bunbury City Council with plans to revitalise the park in 2012.

Local businesses Malatesta Group and Ozline Marking have since jumped on board to provide materials, labour and carry out line marking free of charge, while the council will maintain the park and supply signage.

Apex club member Kristy Morris said the park would provide a fun space for families to spend time together.

“It will also play a part in reducing incidents of injury and fatality on roads involving cyclists in the long term by educating our youth and making them aware of some of the dangers,” Mrs Morris said.

“A longer-term goal would be to implement road and bike safety workshops that would include demonstrating and assisting with bike maintenance.

“We also see the park's proximity to local schools as an asset for them to use in their own road safety education programs.”

Mayor Gary Brennan credited the club for its vision.

“The transformation of Bellemore Park is something the whole community will benefit from,” Mr Brennan said.

“Our local children will learn to be responsible riders and the park will undergo a new lease of life, activating the area once more.”

“Thank you to the Apex club and also to Malatesta Group and Ozline Marking for allowing this long-awaited project to happen.”

Works have begun at the park and are expected to be completed by October school holidays.