Page 34 - Tropic Magazine Issue 37

TROPIC • COVER STORY

On a roll

RIDE FNQ
Words: Renee Cluff
Cycling is riding a wave of popularity in
Cairns and Far North Queensland. It’s not
surprising given the region’s landscapes
are perfect for the activity, whether it’s
simply commuting via the flat coastal
terrain or tackling the mountainous
topography of the Wet Tropics World
Heritage Area along the Great Dividing More recreational courses are in the
Range. And it’s not just locals who enjoy pipeline, including the Wangetti Trail
riding Far North Queensland – a surge from Palm Cove to Port Douglas and the
in large events is bringing more and This year we have a record Northern Beaches Leisure Trail linking
more people from interstate and across 12 cycling and mountain the CBD with beachside suburbs.
the world to experience the scenery, Cairns Councillor Max O’Halloran said
stunning weather, challenging courses biking events in Tropical active travel is beginning to boom.
and social buzz the region’s events are North Queensland “There aren’t many places in the world as
already famed for. Every year, hundreds unique or picturesque as our region, so
stay up beyond midnight to cheer on Mark Olsen there’s really no excuse to not get outside
the final competitors crossing the line TTNQ CEO and jump on your bike,”
for IRONMAN Cairns, while bucket-list he said. “Each time we complete a
bonding sessions occur along multi-day “The region’s reputation for world-class cycleway, it becomes a little bit easier
courses crossing the coast, farmlands and sporting events started with IRONMAN for people get out and about and to
savannah country.
more than a decade ago and has grown see cycling and walking as a genuine
with an emphasis on cycling thanks to alternative for their commute.
our spectacular roads and mountain “More importantly, this infrastructure
biking tracks,” said CEO of Tourism provides an option for residents to
Tropical North Queensland, commute to other town centres and take
Mark Olsen. “The Great Barrier Reef Drive advantage of neighbouring restaurants,
hugging the coastline and fringed by the coffee shops or community facilities.”
world’s oldest rainforest is a favourite The Queensland Government is also
with motorists and coveted by cyclists funding scoping studies for new
as one of the most spectacular courses mountain bike trails across the region,
in the world. Mountain biking gained with a view to attracting more events
international recognition with four that will bring in tourism dollars.
One in five Cairns residents
ride a bike each week international championships held at the “Cycling works on so many levels, not
iconic Smithfield Mountain Bike Park. only supporting the health and well-
Add to that the long sandy beaches at Port being of our community but providing

Douglas and Mission Beach, the scenic transport solutions and fantastic sporting
outback roads of the Savannah Way, and and recreational opportunities,” said
Three in five households have
at least one bike the thrill of riding to historic Cooktown Cairns MP Michael Healy. “These events
Source: Cairns Regional Council and you have a ride to suit all and trails are also a vital part of our
cycling enthusiasts.” community’s economy.”

34 • Tropic • Issue 37