The 24-year-old Mayfield man is a passionate BMX rider and he has lofty ambitions to raise the bar and improve the BMX scene in the Hunter.

Just over a year ago he decided to take on the challenge and has risen to the occasion to create successful, and increasingly popular, events.

‘‘I saw that big cities had a strong BMX scene and there was nothing in Newcastle,’’ he said.

‘‘I’m trying to show people how these events can be good for the community.’’

BMX riders and skateboarders have often had to deal with negative stereotypes as the independent and creative free style of the sport created links with rebellion.

Mr Ingles is working to dispel the myths and give an opportunity for youngsters to excel outside mainstream sports.

‘‘I think there’s a lot of kids these days who are looking for different people as role models than when I was a kid,’’ he said.

He believes the popularity of the new Bar Beach Bowl and the renovated Wallsend skatepark are proof that the Hunter community is warming to the scene.

Mr Ingles organised events at Newcastle, Wallsend and Bellbird last year and said he had received positive feedback and encouragement from Newcastle City Council.

He was named Young Citizen of the Year during Australia Day presentations at Newcastle City Hall and hoped it would open doors for future funding.

Events at Jefferson Park in conjunction with Surfest in March and at Wallsend skatepark during National Youth Week are the next steps. ‘‘We’re really trying to push for large-style festivals full of action sports,’’ he said.

‘‘But my friends and family often say it will be the death of me.’’