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Manly Dam deteriorating?
I was out for a spin last night at the dam - the inner west had not copped any rain so was surprised at how wet and slippery it was. It may have been cause it was dark but it really seems like there's more and more parts that are in quite an advanced state of deterioration. I don't mind at all as it adds to the spice but it doesn't really feel like a novice' s track any more. It seems to me just a matter of time before a really bad accident happens out there with the volume, and wide rider ability who hit that trail. Is there a risk this could force closure of the track if there's any negative impact that comes from a bad accident? I take it the council won't allow volunteer track maintainence but if they aren't doing any are we on a slippery slope to a bad outcome here? Anything we can do? I don't think it needs much more than some metal put in at the right places.
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Earlier this week it bucketed it down
Not sure Manly is a novice track more like intermediate and up to all riders to ride within their means.
It did bucket down earlier this week and with the colder weather the water sits.
I don't think the dam has ever been a novice track. There are too many tough technical sections for it to be considered that.
The wet was due to the rain 2 days earlier. Although it hadn't rained for 3 weeks prior the rain we had in April has left the ground saturated and any new water is just sitting on top. It will take a fair bit of time before moisture levels return to "normal".
Re the track condition, I actually found it better than expected given some of the write ups on here lately. The lead in to the 19th hole is not included here. That section is appalling and I reckon has moved beyond challenging to dangerous. Urgent maintenance is required here.
All
We have been trying to get volunteer days going again and have been assured that these will be reinstated once the paper work is in place, ie the new Plan of Management. Should be a few weeks now.
I can confirm that mountain biking at the Dam has been the subject of recent late night meetings at Council between both staff and Councillors.
My understanding of the discussion is that it relates to how the Dam could work in with Bantry Bay (should the site be chosen) and also funding associated track work to accommodate this.
As always if you are concerned about specific safety aspects then you can contact Council or me at [email protected]. I am happy to forward directly to appropriate staff.
It would also be great to get your suggestions for these areas as we can include them in TrailCare's volunteer trail audit and get you involved for track work.
TrailCare has also introduced them to a local mountain bike trail builder who hopefully will be able to provide some professional rider input soon.
Just went round the dam this morning for a recce.
Apart from a nicely developed new (well it's 3 months since I last went round) line at the 19th hole it was disappointing to see the trail widening and erosion on the singletrack behind the houses at Allambie, and along the park from the 19th to the road.
There are definitely some issues developing that will need significant rectification if left through a wet winter. Id call the dam an Orange after this afternoon's rain on top of the sludge I saw this morning.