The highly anticipated Great East Rail Trail Ride took place from October 3 to 7, bringing cyclists from across Victoria and beyond together for a weekend of riding, camaraderie and local experiences in the heart of East Gippsland.
The three-day event was more than just a ride – it highlighted the region’s natural beauty, rich community spirit and unique local offerings, with participants leaving with a deeper connection to the area and its people.
The event kicked off on Thursday, October 3, as riders arrived in Nowa Nowa, eager to embark on their journey.
The evening featured bike maintenance sessions by expert Liz Mitchell, a relaxing campfire with live music from the Angus family and trivia that had participants bonding right from the start.
The warm welcome set the stage for the adventures ahead.
On Friday, riders began their journey from Bairnsdale along the East Gippsland Rail Trail, taking in scenic views and stopping at Nicholson River Winery for a morning tea break.
One of the day’s highlights was a visit from a young local entrepreneur selling baked goods, adding a personal touch to the journey.
Despite a few bike repairs along the way, riders made it to Bruthen, where lunch at the Bruthen Inn Hotel and local honey tastings were waiting at Tambo Valley Honey.
The day wrapped up with a guided walk led by local artist and author Georgia Angus, followed by a locally sourced dinner, making the first day of riding both enriching and delicious.
Saturday saw riders embark on a scenic adventure through the stunning landscapes of East Gippsland.
The day began with a ride to the iconic Stoney Creek Trestle Bridge, one of the region’s most impressive landmarks. Riders then continued along the East Gippsland Rail Trail to the Flat Bickie coffee stop en-route, where a much-needed brew in the fresh country air had everyone recharged and ready for more.
From there, the ride descended through the beautiful Lakes Colquhoun Forest along the Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail, winding through lush ferns and alongside the serene Mississippi Creek.
The morning’s efforts were rewarded with a relaxing sit-down lunch at Wyanga Park Winery, where riders enjoyed delicious food and good company.
In the afternoon, participants explored a pop-up market in Nowa Nowa, supporting local vendors before gathering around the campfire to hear from Emily from the Goongerah Wombat Orphanage, whose passion for wildlife captivated the group.
The day concluded with a special dinner at the newly opened Mingling Waters restaurant and an inspiring talk from local diver Holly Baird about the hidden wonders of Beware Reef, leaving riders with a deeper connection to the region’s natural beauty.
After a night of rain, riders woke to clearing skies on Sunday, October 6, just in time for their final day on the trail.
A morning coffee stop brought smiles all around as riders geared up for the journey to Orbost.
Excitement built as they approached the Snowy River Rail Bridge – Victoria’s longest trestle bridge.
Lunch at the Orbost Club Hotel was nothing short of amazing, and after refueling, our group split into two exciting adventures.
Half the crew made their way to the Angus property, where they strolled through the plantation and wetlands, and even planted a tree to leave their mark.
Meanwhile, the other half visited the brand-new Sailors Grave Brewing facility.
Owners Chris and Gab Moore shared their story and riders enjoyed a cold one at the Tap Shack to wrap up a fantastic tour.
Returning to Nowa Nowa, riders were treated to loaded spuds by the Nowa Nowa Development Group and enjoyed live music from local artist Ben Cawood, with a bit of karaoke to end the night on a high note.
Snowy River Cycling’s Michelle Cotter was thrilled with the result of the three-day event.
“It’s experiences like these – where cycling, community, and nature all come together – that make our Great East Rail Trail Ride more than just a ride,” Ms Cotter said.
“Participants left with a deeper connection to East Gippsland, its people, and its landscapes, making this year’s ride a truly memorable experience for all involved.
“We’ve explored, we’ve laughed, we’ve connected. This is the magic of East Gippsland.”
