This years W. A. Mountain Bike Association (WAMBA) State Round #2 hosted by South West Mountain Bike Club and Barrie and Sherry Thomas, is again being held at Kambarang Nature Park – the home of Cycletrek at Lowden, near Donnybrook on Sunday 24th May. The venue is well known by the regulars who have raced here over the last few years as a challenging but enjoyable track in beautiful surroundings with some great outlooks – though the views are more for the pleasure of spectators than hard working riders.

Barrie has been building these trails for over a decade and has now about 8km of track on the 100 acre property, of which about 5.5km is used for the race track. It is predominantly singletrack winding through the bush, up and down the hillsides, with a steep downhill across a partially cleared patch of land which gives stunning views for those with the time to look up. There are logs to ride over – or around for those with lesser skills – and the rock gardens to navigate, which many find exhausting by their last lap.

Cycletrek, formerly a bike shop in Bunbury, relocated to Lowden in 2007 and Baz built his new shop with full workshop facilities and mini retail outlet. Cycletrek has a range of parts and accessories. Customers can phone to book in their bike for repairs and, depending on the job, may be able to have it done while they wait. At other times, when coming to collect a serviced bike, the customer can take the opportunity to do a lap or 2 of the mountain bike track. Parents may bring their kids and bikes too if desired – and let the kids loose on the ‘top track’ which is suitable for those with some bush riding experience. For customers in the region, bikes can be picked up and dropped off in Donnybrook, Boyanup and Dardanup by arrangement for a small fee.

On the race weekend, there will be overnight camping available at Kambarang as in previous years – BYO everything including water, and phone 0427 214 217 to book your spot. There are also various accommodation providers in the region for those who require a greater level of comfort – see below for a few contacts.

A family weekend can be made for those with young kids by taking in a visit to the Apple Fun Park in Donnybrook – the difficulty will be getting the kids to leave. For Mum or Dad and the child free, many of the local wineries are open on Saturdays for tastings and the Old Cider Factory is also worth a visit for all the family. And don’t forget Gnomesville on the way if coming via Ferguson Valley.

On race day, cold drinks, coffee and tea, etc will be available to buy as will hot soup, muffins, sausage sizzle and some other food.

For other state round info go to www2.wamba.asn.au

Accommodation

For accommodation in the area :

Donnybrook Visitor Information Centre Ph: (08) 9731 1720

Camping at Kambarang – Ph 0427 214 217