Great Victorian Bike Ride returns to Whitfield

AN expected 4000 cyclists will have Whitfield’s economy on a roll for next year’s Great Victorian Bike Ride in November. Australia’s largest single cycle event will be stopping overnight in town, in a move anticipated to generate more than $80,000 for local businesses - providing they provide the services the cyclists need.

Remember the last time they came to Whitfield? The recreation reserve became a self contained tent city with kitchen, movie theatre and sanitary services. We had never seen so many people in town overnight. They swarmed over the streets like ants. It was a great new adventure. We did many things right as a lot of riders have returned to the King Valley privately ... and the ride is stopping here again next year.

This time around, we should be able to provide for them even better. Some suggested improvements could be:

• A bus service to ferry the cyclists to Gentle Annie bridge for a swim. Last time around, they walked or rode their bikes to the swimming hole.
• A refreshment booth located at the swimming hole. An entrepeneural community group could provide soft drinks and ice cream to revive them after their day's ride.
• Adequate shower facilities for the riders. Last time, they were lined up for hours at the Whitfield School - although that was a bonus for the school to create an oasis with refreshments for the cyclists whilst they waited.
• Farm Stays and other accommodation houses should contact Bicycle Victoria as there are some riders who prefer a real bed to sleep in.
• The many masseurs in the valley could also set up a massage service at the RSL or Health Centre for damaged cyclists.
• E-mail and telephone services are also essential. Last time, the school opened up their computers but the public phone outside the general store was inadequate. Last year, Telstra Country Wide attended with 4 computers and an additional phone service.

The ride, which will begin in Wangaratta, will have entrants riding and staying overnight in towns such as Beechworth, Tallangatta, Mt Beauty, Myrtleford, Whitfield, Mansfield and Yea.