Member for Davidson, Jonathan O’Dea, has questioned Environment Minister, Verity Firth in parliament over threatened environmental damage to Garigal National Park through illegal trail bike riding.
“The questions were prompted by the publication, “Trails Australia”, promoting 39 off road trails in the greater Sydney Region,” Mr O’Dea said.
“A number of these trails are shown to go through the Garigal National Park, north of Oxford Falls – where riding is illegal,” he said.
“I have asked the Minister whether she is aware of the publication – or any others – promoting the illegal bike riding and whether NSW National Parks has reported any such incidents to police or other authorities for action.
“I also want to know how many successful prosecutions there have been for trail bike, BMX bike or other illegal bike riding in Garigal National Park,” Mr O’Dea said.
“The illegal activities raise a number of environmental concerns. The most obvious is the risk of erosion and the possible impact on flora and fauna. There is also the risk of siltation impacting on local streams and ultimately the Narrabeen Lagoon,” he said.
“I have received representations from Warringah Council C-Ward candidate, Jose Menano-Pires, also expressing concerns over the illegal bike riding and the potential for environmental damage.
“Jose is also pushing for rehabilitation of the waste management site at Belrose to include formerly designed bike trails, taking environmental impacts into account. This might see demand for such facilities satisfied without placing the Garigal National Park at risk.
“I am calling on the Government to act promptly to stop the illegal bike riding and protect the Garigal National Park.
“I am also urging the Government to provide an alternative venue for the riders, which won’t adversely impact the environment,” Mr O’Dea concluded.
