By ANDY WILSON
THE Alpine Community Plantation (ACP) has reported feedback from a survey about their new operational model has been positive so far.
The ACP is a not–for–profit group and has found that high numbers of visitors to Mystic Park, post–COVID, meant that more maintenance was required for its upkeep.
The survey was launched in mid–October and addresses the need for a new model which now requires membership fees.
Mystic Park is located on a working pine plantation and is open to recreational use.
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ACP executive officer, Kirsten Seeto, said the survey had received some "really positive" feedback.
"It does feel like the community is getting behind this and although we recognise that some people are going to be disappointed by the increase in costs, the running of the park just isn't sustainable anymore," Ms Seeto said.
"However, we have found that, generally, people who are unhappy with the new model will bother with the survey and those who are happy are buying memberships," she said.
The bike trail that runs through the forest was built originally and maintained for many years by Alpine Cycling Club (ACC) volunteers.
"This trail is a reflection of the heart and soul of ACC, but we can't leave maintenance to volunteers for a park of this size, as it now goes beyond their capability," Ms Seeto said.
Funds to maintain the park have been raised mostly by the club, and private and commercial shuttle income.
Local residents and businesses are impacted by dust which is produced by the bike trail in summer, and which is managed by dust suppression methods.
"These can include trail runners, hikers, paragliders, hang gliders, and people walking their dogs."
According to Ms Seeto, the new membership model aims to improve safety by reducing the number of vehicles in the park – in the past many drivers ignored parking sites and unloaded bikes in the wrong places.
"We have an obligation to make sure that the park that we have the privilege of access to, thanks to the landowner, is also safe for everyone to enjoy.
"The membership fees will make the park just break even, and at the end of the day, we do need users to contribute to the cost."
Access to frequently asked questions about the model can be found at: https://www.alpinecommunityplantation.com.au/mysticpark–faq.
Local residents and businesses, and non–mountain bike users of the park are also encouraged to answer the survey.
