House of Assembly: Thursday, July 03, 2008

Contents

RECREATIONAL TRAILS

Mr KENYON (Newland) (14:38): My question is to the Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing. What are the state government's recent achievements on recreational trails and how do they help boost physical activity?

The Hon. M.J. WRIGHT (Lee—Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Finance, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing) (14:38): The state government is celebrating the completion of another iconic recreational trail for South Australia. The Kidman Trail, which extends 255 kilometres from Willunga to Kapunda, is South Australia's first multiuse trail for horseriding, mountain biking and walking. The Kidman Trail is set to become another state icon trail, complementing other popular South Australian trails, including the Heysen, Mawson and Riesling trails.

Recreational trails provide excellent opportunities for physical activity for all members of our community. I am advised that research indicates that trails provide a strong incentive to exercise and are also used as a way to spend quality active time with family and friends. The government's commitment to trails has been further strengthened with the release of guidelines for the planning, design, construction and maintenance of recreational trails in South Australia.

South Australia is the first state to have a generic set of guidelines for the development of trails. These guidelines will ensure that South Australia is a leader in terms of developing sustainable trails with minimal impact on the environment. Taking time to enjoy a trail is an enjoyable way to be physically active, and I encourage all South Australians to explore and experience our state's excellent trails and, in particular, the new Kidman Trail.