Ales for trails: Local support for bike trail plan

One of the region’s most beloved mountain biking trails is set for a major upgrade, and a local business has jumped on board to support the project.

The plan is to transform the Stumpel Stilskin Trail, in the Wooditjup network, into an exciting new jump line to thrill riders of all levels.

Margaret River Beer Co and the Brewhouse have joined the campaign, with $1 donated from every pint of their ‘In The Pines’ Hazy IPA sold over the bar at the Brewhouse throughout August.

“We’re pumped to be able to help with the fundraising efforts to make this trail upgrade possible,” Aaron Brown, Co-Owner Margaret River Beer Co said.

“It’s fitting that we can raise funds through the sale of our much loved ‘In The Pines’ beer for a trail ‘in the pines’ network.”

The upgrade to Stumpel Stilskin is part of a broader community effort to enhance trail offerings in Margaret River.

The initiative has brought about a collaboration between the Margaret River Off Road Cycling Association (MRORCA), Humble Bike Co, Woodland Trails and Landscapes, and Margaret River Beer Co and Brewhouse.

The team is also working closely with Specialized’s ‘Soil Searching’ program, which focuses on supporting trail builders and fostering sustainable trail development around the world.

“We’ve wanted to give Stumpel Stilskin some love for a while now, but with so much of our resources going into maintaining the most popular trails, it’s been difficult to find the time and funds,” Damien Barton, MRORCA President said.

“With over 40kms of mountain bike trails in Margaret River, MRORCA relies heavily on volunteers to help maintain them.

“This initiative is a humbling example of the riding community and local business coming together to support the club, which helps in a massive way.

“With a shared mission, we will get to offer the public an upgrade of a great trail while doing it in a very fun and social way.”

Mountain biking is a significant tourism draw for Margaret River, yet the upkeep and development of the area’s extensive trail network falls significantly on the shoulders of MRORCA.

The club relies heavily on volunteer efforts and fundraising to maintain and improve the trails, which attract riders from all over Australia.

Owner of Humble Bike Co, Rex Dubois, is passionate about supporting the project and noted the pressures of maintaining the trails.

“One of the big stories here is that despite the massive popularity of mountain biking in Margaret River and the huge tourism draw it has, the upkeep of the facilities falls to MRORCA,” he said.

“They work tirelessly to maintain an extensive trail network with the majority done through fundraising and volunteer work.”

Through their Soil Searching initiative, Specialized has been a key supporter of the project.

Soil Searching is dedicated to advocating for trail stewards, hosting dig days, and providing financial support to trail communities around the globe.

“We’re thrilled to see how the community in Margaret River has rallied together for this project,” a Specialized spokesperson said.

“Stumpel Stilskin is a prime example of how a grassroots effort, backed by passionate individuals and local businesses, can make a real impact on the trail network.

“Our Soil Searching initiative is all about giving back to the trails and the people who maintain them, and we’re excited to see the transformation of this trail.”

Margaret River Beer Co is encouraging everyone to support the cause.

“Grab your mates, head down to Brewhouse, and enjoy a pint of ‘In The Pines’ this August,” Aaron said.

“Together, we can make a difference and keep the stoke alive for years to come.”