Unemployed build Valley bike trail

Renee Pilcher

A GROUP of 10 long-term unemployed jobseekers are gaining new skills while they help to build a world-class mountain bike trail at Amamoor in the Mary Valley.

Parliamentary Secretary for Employment and Economic Development Jan Jarratt said the Queensland Government was funding the Australian Industry Engineering and Manufacturing Network Cooperative Limited (AIEMnet) to coordinate the jobs project.

“AIEMnet has been awarded $132,420 to boost participants' employment prospects and create an exciting new facility for the region,” Ms Jarratt said.

Participants would upgrade existing walking tracks and bring some of them to mountain bike standard.

“Despite the global downturn, the Queensland Government's continued commitment to infrastructure spending will create many opportunities for those who have landscaping and construction skills and experience.”

AIEMnet General Manager, Peter Gregory, said the finished facilities will include downhill and cross-country trails.

“Work will include preparing the site, clearing weeds, landscaping and building retaining walls, trail features and obstacles,” Mr Gregory said.

“Participants' hands-on experience will be backed up by accredited training in chainsaw use and senior first aid.

“This exciting project is a win-win for participants and the local community.”

The State Government's wholly owned Traveston Crossing dam proponent, Queensland Water Infrastructure Pty Ltd, will also contribute towards materials and training delivered by the Wide Bay Institute of TAFE.

The government would invest $81 million in training more than 21,500 long-term unemployed.