Protecting and respecting Darch Road Reserve

Protecting and respecting Darch Road Reserve 

We all share a role in protecting the natural places, wildlife and community in our Shire. That’s why we are taking important steps to protect the Darch Road Reserve – keeping it safe, clean and cared for now and into the future.

If you visit this shared recreational space, you will have noticed unsanctioned bike trails and dumped rubbish in the area. We love creativity and outdoor activities but home-made trails here aren’t suitable for many reasons.


 

• The jumps are very large and not well constructed. No one likes accidents or injuries! When things aren’t built to standard by qualified people, things can go wrong, and people can get seriously hurt.
• The delicate environment is suffering. The trail building at this site has damaged native vegetation and disrupted the waterway. 
• We need to make sure this river foreshore reserve is respected and protected for future generations.

Shire President Julia Meldrum highlighted the importance of riding in the right places and explained why remediation works and trail removal is necessary.

“Our region is in a beautiful part of the world, and we need to prioritise the preservation of our natural areas to make sure everyone in our community can continue to enjoy them for years to come,” President Meldrum said.
 
“Sadly, the site has been used as a dumping ground for rubbish and there’s been deliberate damage to native peppermint and marri trees in the area.

“Our local creeklines are important environments that provide a refuge for local flora and fauna, including threatened species. They are fragile to disturbance, and digging up soil and damaging foreshore vegetation can have a real threat to the health of these important ecosystems. 

“We understand the excitement and enthusiasm of our community in exploring new outdoor spaces but it’s crucial that such activities are conducted in in the right place, and in a responsible and sustainable manner. The safety of our community is our highest priority.”

Margaret River is the traditional land of the Saltwater People. Whether you’re living, travelling, visiting or holidaying here on Wadandi Boodja, we ask that you respect the area, tread lightly on Country and leave nothing but footprints.

Site repair works will begin during the week of the 9 June 2025. A revegetation program will take place this winter, with local schools planting native seedlings in the area. 

Where to ride instead? 

Mountain biking enthusiasts in the community are encouraged to check out the purpose-built Brookfield Mountain Bike Park on Andrews Way. 

Developed by the Shire in partnership with Magic Dirt Trailworx and the local youth in our community, the park offers a safe, sustainable and well-designed space for riders of all levels. 

This facility has been created with careful planning to ensure minimal impact on the surrounding environment while providing an exceptional experience for users.

Margaret River is lucky to have a world-class network of mountain bike trails. Check them out: https://www.mrorca.org.au/margaret-river-trails