After our fourth (and probably last) time on the Munda Biddi over a period of twelve years, we've got some concluding comments.
It's awesome!
The Munda Biddi is definitely one of the world's great cycling experiences, particularly the single track sections. You're out in the bush (and the scrub) as much as when bushwalking, but are moving much faster, with more to see and more of a breeze to experience on yor bare skin.
It got us to muse about the amazing degree to which a bicycle amplifies the efficiency of human locomotion. Even going uphill on a uneven track, we couldn't carry as much weight on our back as we did on our bikes!
It's so well done!
Compliments to the great folks at CALM/DEC/DPAW/whatever-they-are-called-this-week! The huts are great, especially further South where they've got the bugs ironed out (the trail was built North to South). Many are in spectacular locations. Having reliable water supply at known locations is obviously critically important, and having the shelters avoids the need to carry a tent.
It's well maintained!
Foreign visitors may not necessarily appreciate this, but, unfortunately, in this country we have a habit of starting things with great fanfare, but as soon as the press coverage is done, they quickly get forgotten. Many great bits of infrastructure get de-funded and deteriorate quickly. The Munda Biddi is a shining example of how things can be done. Having experienced it over a period of twelve years (3.5 years old when we first went there) we can say it is definitely well kept. There are a few bleached signes, but many new ones that indicate people are looking after the trail. Many thanks, DPAW, and many thanks all the many volunteer helpers looking after the Munda Biddi!
It's seriously threatened!
The one really bad (and striking) aspect of deterioration is not from neglect but from [choose your preferred strong expletive] trail-bike riders who are enjoying themselves by destroying our trail. Totally illegally, as much of the trail is in national parks, where trail bikes are not allowed. Doesn't stop those assholes!
At time of writing (January 2019) this specifically applies to the section between Oakley Dam and Jarrahdale. Nine years earlier, this was one of the most beautiful sections, with lots of single track, and it was relatively easy. Now it is completely ruined, full of deeply dug-up pea gravel that is a torture to ride, and many a stretch that is impossible on a loaded bicycle. Instead of enjoying the section, all you want is to get it done an over with.
How can the Munda Biddi be protected from social misfits who take joy from destroying what was made for the benefit and enjoyment of others at significant expense to the taxpayer?
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