Mountain-biker Paul McKenzie and Molly
the border collie try out the new track built by
offenders on community work sentences.
SENTENCED community work offenders have built a new bike track which, all going well, could become a regional competition circuit.
Completed in early July, the 600m long Ridgeline Track in Picton’s Victoria Domain is proving a hit with riders of all skill levels.
Marlborough Mountain Bike Club member John Pickering says offenders serving community work sentences became involved following his funding application to the Marlborough District Council’s 2006 Annual Plan.
After approving construction of the track the Council approached Community Probation & Psychological Services (CPPS) to provide labour and and assist with construction.
“It’s a great little track and I’m delighted with the result,” Mr Pickering said.
“The alignment is perfect thanks to Senior Community Work Supervisor Steve Wood who, apart from knowing how to construct a sustainable track, also managed the workers brilliantly. We were very lucky to have Steve on the job.
“It took four months to cut and complete the track which is ideal for riders ranging from beginners through to competition.”
CPPS Area Manager Polly Cunningham says she’s now working with the Kaipupu Point Sounds Wildlife Sanctuary to see if there are opportunities for offenders sentenced to community work to dig fence post holes, clear tracks and assist with planting at the sanctuary.
The CPPS Marlborough office is keen to find projects for offenders on a community work sentence to become involved in. Anyone with ideas is welcome to contact Louisa Brunt on (03) 577 2651.
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ISSN 1178-8453