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BENDIGO will welcome the Great Victorian Bike Ride for the first time in a decade this year – and council is inviting residents and business owners to find out how to make the most of the opportunity.
The event runs from November 28 to December 6 under the banner of ‘Rediscover the Goldfields’, and about 4000 cyclists are expected to pedal their way through the 540 kilometres through Ballarat, Avoca, Dunolly, Inglewood, Bendigo, Heathcote and Castlemaine.
Day six of the cycle, December 3, involved a "rest day" in Bendigo, and event general manager Darren Allen said the city could expect to see more than $200,000 trickle into its economy.
Riders will then go to Heathcote and Castelmaine before returning to the finish line in Bendigo.
To make the most of this shot in the arm, the City of Greater Bendigo is encouraging residents and business owners to attend a series of community meetings this week to learn more about how they can contribute to and benefit from the event.
City tourism manager, Kathryn Mackenzie, said the event would cement greater Bendigo’s reputation as a cycling destination.
“There will be a rest day in Bendigo, so this presents an excellent opportunity for businesses to promote all our region has to offer and benefit from thousands of people stopping on our doorstep,” Ms Mackenzie said.
“Participants will then head off to Heathcote and Castlemaine before the ride returns to and finishes in Bendigo on the Sunday. It is likely some will stay overnight and possibly for a few days afterwards looking for some rest and relaxation.
“It’s not just accommodation providers and local dining outlets that can benefit from this fantastic event.
“Chemists, supermarkets and health practitioners such as massage therapists, chiropractors and osteopaths will also be highly sought after.”
She encouraged those who couldn’t get in the saddle themselves to get involved as a volunteer.
“It’s been 16 years since the Great Victorian Bike Ride came through Bendigo and 10 years since it came through Heathcote, so residents and businesses are encouraged not to miss this opportunity to warmly welcome visitors to our municipality and give them a reason to make a return trip,” Ms Mackenzie said.
A community meetings will be held at Bendigo on Tuesday, 6pm, at council’s reception room, 195-229 Lyttleton Terrace.
On Wednesday the Heathcote Bowling Club will hold a community meeting at 6pm.