New signpost at the Stidwell Bridle Trail details routes and rules, making clear trail bikes are not welcome

Visitors to the Albany Equestrian Centre and users of the Stidwell Bridle Trail can now benefit from a new trailhead sign designed to improve safety, support responsible trail use and protect the area’s unique natural environment.

Recently installed at the Albany Equestrian Centre, the new sign makes it clear there are rules for trail users, including that there is no place for trail bikes.

The trail bike ban is to help protect the fragile native vegetation along the network.

Another key feature is a detailed trail map tailored to horseriders.

The map includes QR codes that link directly to information on TrailsWA, allowing riders and walkers to access information about terrain, distance and route conditions before starting their journey.

The project was funded through sponsorship from the Nutrien Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal and was designed and project managed by the Friends of the Stidwell Bridle Trail in collaboration with the Albany Equestrian Centre.

The installation follows closely behind the completion of a 750m section of barrier fencing installed by the City of Albany on the eastern section of the South Coast Water Reserve.

The fencing is designed to prevent unauthorised vehicles from accessing the Stidwell Bridle Trail via the reserve, helping to reduce environmental damage and support the long-term protection of the trail corridor.

Friends of the Stidwell Bridle Trail chair Charlotte McIntyre welcomed the completion of the project.

“We are grateful to Nutrien for providing funding for this trailhead sign, which really reflects the status of Stidwell as a premier regional asset that we should all be proud of,” she said.

“Riders and walkers will be safer as a result of being able to plan their trail journey, and it sends a clear message about appropriate behaviour for authorised users of the trail.

“The recent barrier fencing complements the work that the Friends do to protect the bridle trail, and we look forward to watching the native vegetation regenerate now that unauthorised vehicles are excluded.”

She said the Friends would continue to work with land managers, community groups and stakeholders to enhance the trail experience while ensuring the area’s significant environmental values are protected for future generations.