Have your say on the future of First Turkey
Published on 30 April 2025
Rockhampton Regional Council is inviting the community to have their say on the First Turkey Master Plan, which outlines a long-term vision for mountain biking in our region.
The plan, developed by the Rockhampton Mountain Bike Club with in-principle support from Council, aims to upgrade the popular First Turkey Mountain Bike Reserve with improved trails and facilities, new tourism opportunities and better access for a range of riders.
The master plan proposes four main projects:
- trailhead development
- adaptive trails
- trail improvements
- increased tourism
The projects are staged across short, medium and long-term priorities, with commitments to ongoing consultation and engagement, approvals required for any land use changes and attracting external funding.
Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams said this was an important opportunity to shape the future of First Turkey, sport and open spaces in the region.
“First Turkey is already a favourite for locals and visitors, and we’re seeing mountain biking grow as a tourism drawcard right across the country,” Mayor Williams said.
“This Master Plan is an opportunity to build on our current success, and develop and work towards additional enhancements at the site that will mean big wins for locals and visitors alike.
“Importantly, it’s a comprehensive plan that not only outlines a vision for new trails and infrastructure but acknowledges community connection and environmental protection at the site.
“We want to make sure we get this right and have a plan we can all work around. That means we need to hear from locals, trail users and the broader community.”
Parks, Sport and Public Spaces Councillor Cherie Rutherford said the plan also opens up new opportunities for the Rockhampton Mountain Bike Club and local sporting events.
“This is about creating a space that meets the needs of the club and the community now and well into the future,” Cr Rutherford said.
“Plans include improvements like toilets and amenities, a bike skills park, storage and parking, all aimed at supporting riders of all levels and abilities.
“We’re looking at how we can support mountain biking as a sport and make sure the facilities grow alongside the increasing number of riders.
“At the same time, we need to consider how these upgrades sit within our public spaces and how they affect the broader community. That’s why this feedback is so important.
“We encourage the community to complete the survey before 14 May 2025 to help us strike the right balance for the sport and community.”
The survey is open now and closes on 14 May 2025.
To read the plan and have your say, visit https://engage.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/first-turkey-master-plan