Lismore City Council announced that hundreds of cycling enthusiasts will converge on Lismore next month for the first-ever Lismore Cycling Festival.

The bumper two-day event, held in partnership with the Byron Bay Cycle Club on the weekend of 5 and 6 October, promises a mix of competitive racing, participation rides and ‘Come-and-try’ sessions for children and adults.

This mix of options makes the event perfect for seasoned cyclists and newcomers.

Lismore City Council’s Manager of Active and Liveable Communities, Tony Duffy, said the event will showcase the Council's ability to host cycling events that require short and long-distance cycling.

“On Saturday, we will have criterium racing around the Oakes Oval complex, which is a fast-paced, bunch-style racing on a closed-street circuit,” he said.

“Then, on Sunday, the focus shifts to the Fondo events, which are rides designed to accommodate different skill levels and fitness around our stunning Lismore countryside, from the ridgelines of the Nimbin valley to the lush Woodlawn and Numulgi valleys.”

“Officials in vehicles with orange flashing lights will patrol the rider group's front, middle and rear. Some CBD roads will be closed for short-distance racing, but most roads are still open to traffic for long-distance. Existing speed limits apply, and maps will be available soon on the official website.”

Saturday starts with registration at 10am, followed by thrilling Cyclocross and Junior’s Crit-Cross events in the Lismore Regional Sports Hub. This is an excellent opportunity for people of all ages to try cycling in a fun, off-road environment. Cyclocross, popular in Europe, offers a safe and exciting way to develop cycling skills.

From 2pm, things speed up with criterium racing around the Oakes Oval complex, featuring fast-paced, bunch-style racing on a closed street circuit. Spectators are encouraged to enjoy the action from Lismore’s Sporting Hub, where stalls will provide coffee, food and plenty of atmosphere.

Free parking is available in the Harold Federicks car park between the Lismore Regional Sports Hub and the Lismore Library/Art Gallery buildings.

On Sunday, the focus shifts to the Fondo events – participation rides designed to accommodate different skill levels and fitness. Riders can choose between the Gran Fondo (110km), Medio Fondo (70km), or Piccolo Fondo (28km).

A Byron Bay Cycle Club spokesperson said riders will be safe no matter what event they choose to participate in.

“Cycling isn’t just about racing, these Fondo events are a chance for people to enjoy the beauty of our region at their own pace,” the spokesperson said.

“The festival is for everyone, whether you're a seasoned rider or just looking for a fun way to get active.

“Safety is paramount, with marshals patrolling the courses in vehicles. Participants are reminded that all bikes must be road-legal (including pedal-assist bikes) and that helmets are mandatory.”

The event is expected to generate an economic boost of $79,250 for local businesses, with proceeds from the festival supporting the Lismore Rescue Helicopter Service.

Lismore City Council estimate:

• Day 1 Criterium – Estimated total visitor spend of $27,000
• Day 2 Fondo/Midlands/Flatlands – Estimated total visitor spend of $52,250

For more information and to register, visit the official Lismore Cycling Festival website at www.byronbaycycleclub.org.au/lismore-cycling-festival-2024 

The festival once again demonstrates that Lismore is a regional sporting hub after successfully hosting a number of major events this year, including the Australian Women’s Baseball Showcase and Masters Hockey.