Investigation confirms asbestos fragments across Helensburgh mountain bike track

AN investigation has confirmed the presence of asbestos fragments right across the Helensburgh Mountain Bike Track.

Wollongong City Council says it is making progress to resolve the asbestos problem found at the 2.3ha site, and is working closely with the licensee, Helensburgh Off Road Cycle Club (HORCC), on the next steps for the facility.

Council said it is currently working through site remediation approval processes with the regulator.

The Helensburgh Mountain Bike Park has been closed as a precautionary measure to allow for an investigation after asbestos was found at the site earlier this year. As a consequence, the park has been closed since May 4 after concerns were raised with Wollongong City Council.

The information was provided to Council by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, which had confirmed the presence of asbestos containing material within a dirt jump structure on their adjoining land.

Council closed the park to investigate the makeup of soil material on the site’s dirt tracks. Regular air monitoring has been in place, and an independent auditor was tasked with investigating the level of contamination at the site, and providing recommendations on its long-term management.

Council have met with representative members of HORCC, and are working through the next steps that would allow the park to reopen to the community.

Council’s manager of open space and environmental services, Paul Tracey said reports have confirmed the presence of asbestos right across the site.

“Unfortunately, there seems to be some misinformation in the community that there may have been one or two fragments at this site,” he said.

“Council has comprehensive laboratory results and reporting from an independent expert that has confirmed the presence of asbestos fragments right across the 2.3ha site.

“This is something we take very seriously as it’s a question of community safety. No bike ride is worth that risk. Now we have the detailed reports, we are focused on finding the right solution to make the site safe before it can be re-opened to the public to enjoy.”

Council said the track will remain closed while the clean-up is completed and said it is keen to return the site to the community as quickly as possible.

In a statement posted on the HORCC Facebook Page on July 31, the group assured members that the track is not facing permanent closure.

“While the council is actively collaborating with the relevant authorities, the removal of fences is pending official documentation. Based on the discussions from the meeting, they anticipate that this will take a number of weeks, and we will continue to advocate for a swift reopening. However, I must inform you that once the track is open, some excavation and remediation work will be necessary. The council plans to remove the ‘contaminated’ materials, such as bricks and tiles from the site, resulting in certain sections remaining closed temporarily until completion. This process will take place as soon as the required documentation is provided…”

Should anyone see people entering the site, Council urges the public to contact 4227 7111 or NSW Police.

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