NORTH East Victoria is set for a tourism boost this weekend with cycling event Peaks Challenge Falls Creek to bring thousands of visitors to the region.
More than 1800 cyclists are registered to participate in the gruelling 235km ride that travels up and over Tawonga Gap, Mount Hotham and Falls Creek; they will be joined by family, friends and supporters who also make the trip.
Bicycle Network general manager of events Rebecca Lane said an excited cycling community will deliver a healthy boost for local businesses and the community.
“It’s been a long 12 months since the last Peaks Challenge Falls Creek and we can’t wait to be back in the North East again,” she said.
“Locals have always been so supportive of the event and our riders, so we’re doing everything we can to maximise the benefit for those communities.”
In addition to the more than 4000 bed nights booked and $1.2 million tipped into the local economy by participants and visitors, Bicycle Network will spend event costs locally where possible, contributing a further $80,000 to the region.
Volunteer groups from the region including Mount Beauty and Omeo will also receive donations from Bicycle Network.
Volunteers help to run rest stops along the route to assist riders looking to refuel and access fresh supplies and clothing.
This year will be the 12th edition of Peaks Challenge Falls Creek, and as is custom for the event, it will take the unique challenges in stride.
While those challenges usually relate to the weather, this year a COVIDSafe plan has been developed with help from the Victorian Department of Health to manage physical distancing, hygiene and capacity requirements.
“To protect the local community and riders, changes have been made to how the event village, route and rest stops will operate,” Ms Lane said.
“The size of groups and gatherings will be reduced, hand sanitiser readily available and surfaces regularly cleaned and sanitised.”
There will be some changes to traffic conditions on Sunday, March 7, including closures to the Great Alpine and Bogong High Plains roads.
More information about the event, including last minute entries, is available at peakschallenge.com.au.
