The whole community will benefit from a transformative $8.9m redevelopment of Malabar Park, home to Cockburn BMX Club and award-winning local charity Friends of the Community.
The Bibra Lake facility at Malabar Way off Port Kembla Drive boasts BMX facilities that enable the club to host national-level events, while the general community can access a pump track, playground, barbecue facilities, public toilets and new car parking year-round.
Upgraded BMX facilities include a Union Cyclist Internationale (UCI) accredited track with a 5m start ramp for training and racing.
About 350 people attended a community open day at the facility on 28 June, with an official opening by City of Cockburn Mayor Logan Howlett who said Malabar Park offered something for everyone.
“Whether you are a BMX enthusiast or a family looking for a fun day out, these fantastic facilities are here for the benefit of all Cockburn residents,” Mayor Howlett said.
“Last year the track was still under development when it was visited by Australian 2024 Paris Olympic gold medallist Saya Sakakibara and French bronze medallist Romain Mahieu.
“They tried out the track and gave it the seal of approval, saying it was “perfect for all skill levels.
“The facility also has new floodlighting. The City is grateful for a $100,000 State Government grant through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries’ Community Sporting and Recreation Facilities Fund.
“Along with a $20,000 funding commitment from Cockburn BMX Club, the City provided the remainder of the funding and is very proud the facility can also provide a permanent base for local charity Friends of the Community.
“Named Community Volunteer Organisation of the Year at the City’s 2023 WA Volunteer of the Year Awards, this training and catering charity has been dedicated to reinvesting all proceeds from food sales at events it attends, back into the local community since 2006.
“The UCI accreditation means the track can be used for larger competitions which will bring people from around Australia to Cockburn all year round.
“These welcome visitors will contribute to the local economy by spending on goods and services, with this significant investment also yielding economic benefits for the City, its businesses, and residents.”
Cockburn BMX Club Chairman Kirk Taylor said the City of Cockburn had set a new standard for BMX facilities in WA by transforming Malabar Park into a recreational asset the whole community could enjoy.
“It will be a popular destination for BMX racing and training, community BMX riding, birthday parties and family gatherings,” Mr Taylor said.
“Saya Sakakibara’s 2024 Olympic gold medal and the highly anticipated opening of Malabar Park has thrust BMX racing into the spotlight as an alternative to mainstream sports.
“The increased community interest in BMX will help the club expand, as new participants experience what our members have enjoyed for over 30 years.
“Whether riders participate for fun and fitness or are on elite development pathways, the improvements to Malabar Park will now provide riders with modern, world class infrastructure, in which to train and compete.
“The facility will attract national BMX events and draw competitors from across Australia, potentially injecting millions of dollars into the local community.”
Friends of the Community Inc President and Co-founder Norm Dale said he was thrilled Malabar Park had become the charity’s new home.
“This partnership marks an exciting opportunity for growth and collaboration as we look towards the future,” Mr Dale said.
“The new facility will enable us to expand our youth training programs, incorporating new modules that emphasise technology and computer-based learning.
These initiatives will provide our volunteers with essential skills for their future careers.
“We are also excited to showcase our coffee van, equipped with a state-of-the-art coffee machine that will offer barista training for our youth.
“Our fully accredited food van will also serve a variety of delicious meals, including hot favourites like roast beef rolls and sausage sizzles.”
