Riders will set off from Bairnsdale on Saturday, October 17, as part of Snowy River Cycling’s inaugural Rail Trail in a Day event – and the whole Orbost community is invited to be part of the finish.
The full challenge is 97km along the East Gippsland Rail Trail to Orbost, but the organisers are keen to stress that riders don’t have to complete the whole distance, and certainly don’t have to be on their bike for 10 hours.
“That’s what we love about this event. The choice is yours,” Snowy River Cycling’s Michelle Webb said.
Designated pick-up points along the trail are included as part of registration. Riders who decide they’ve done enough for the day can put their hand up for a lift and be brought through to Orbost to still be part of the finish line celebrations.
The pick-up points are Nicholson (9km), Bruthen (31km), Lakes Colquhoun Road (43km), Nowa Nowa (58km) and Partelli’s Crossing (73km).
“Do what you can this year. Come back and try for a little further next year. Or maybe the full 97km is your goal from the start,” Ms Webb said.
There is still time to register, and Snowy River Cycling would love to see more locals giving it a go.
While the ride is a big part of the day, the organisers also want the finish in Orbost to become something the whole community can enjoy.
From 2pm at the finish line there will be live music, market stalls and plenty happening as riders are welcomed into town.
Everyone is welcome, you don’t need to be riding to be part of it.
“We hope to have around 50 riders taking part in this first event, with people travelling from outside the region to experience the East Gippsland Rail Trail and finish their journey here in Orbost,” Ms Webb said.
“But this first year is really only the beginning.”
The hope is that Rail Trail in a Day becomes an annual event for Orbost, something that continues to grow and brings people from around Victoria and Australia into the region each year.
“More riders means more people staying locally, eating locally, discovering our businesses and experiencing our community,” Ms Webb said.
“Just as importantly, we want locals to feel that this is their event too.”
Local businesses, community groups and stallholders are also welcome to be part of the finish line celebrations.
Those interested can contact Snowy River Cycling via email.
