The Great Victorian Bike Ride grew from its humble beginnings in 1984. Now thirty-eight years on, the rolling bike festival has become a rite of passage for many.
Each year, the Great Vic welcomes people from all experience levels and walks of life. From school kids enjoying their first holiday away from their parents to retirees gearing up for another adventure with mates — and everyone else in between!
We take a trip down memory lane with Sheryl, David, and Sam, as they reflect on their favourite memories from previous years of the Great Vic and offer advice to new riders.
Sheryl, 54
Number of Great Vics: 1
Year attended: 1995
Route: Grampians to Melbourne
Why did you decide to go on the Great Vic?
It was part of my honeymoon with my husband. We met some friends who flew down from Adelaide and decided it would be fun to go on a bike riding holiday.
Describe a favourite memory from the ride
There’re a few great ones.
We used to ride straight to the local pub, have a few beers and then set up the tent. During our rest stop at Colac, my friend and I ended up on stage and singing Eagle Rock to all the other bike riders.
What’s the coolest thing you saw on the road?
We rode through Dunkeld and other country towns and saw locals clapping and waving on the side of the road as we passed through. The campground was also cool, like a little village — it was a sea of tents and bikes, and you had to remember where your tent was.
What’s one thing you’d say to riders going on the ride for the first time?
Just do it and don’t think about it, you don’t need to be a pro. There were times that were really challenging and Bruce [Sheryl’s husband] would say, ‘Just keep going!’. But as we rode over the West Gate Bridge on our pushbikes, we felt the achievement of finishing.
David, 76
Number of Great Vics: over 20
First year attended: around 2000
Favourite route: Central Gippsland
Why did you decide to go on the Great Vic?
It came at a time where I was no longer operating my business, so I had some free time. My friends were planning their first Great Vics and they said, ‘You’ve got the time, why not?’
I got a bike and practiced in Around the Bay that year. Thought we’d give the Great Vic a go, now it’s been 20 years later.
Describe a favourite memory from the ride
After we’d done a few, we eventually picked up a few more friends to join. In 2010, I roped in my brother who flew in from Canberra and my brother-in-law, and we expanded the group. We shared a few great memories all together on the ride. It’s that kind of event.
What’s the coolest thing you saw on the road?
One of those years, we got hit by a massive cold front. We were cycling into the rest stop and saw over a hundred bike riders huddled for warmth. It was a sight! Also, some parts of the route over the years were amazing. Long flat stretches of road, and farmland…
What’s one thing you’d say to riders going on the ride for the first time?
Getting engaged with towns is important. Some places get really into it, it’s huge event and a great opportunity to fundraise. I come from a country town, so it’s always great to see.
Sam, 30
Number of Great Vics: 4
First year attended: 2004
Favourite route: Great Ocean Road/Otways
Why did you decide to go on the Great Vic?
The 2004 Great Vic famously included a free ‘violet crumble’ bike (affectionately name due to its orange and purple colour) with early bird entries, so a group of parents and kids from my junior football club decided to give it a go. Some were regular riders but most of us hadn’t ridden more than 5km, so it was good motivation to start doing some social rides.
Describe a favourite memory from the ride
Whether I was 13 or 30, my favourite memories are having a laugh with mates on and off the bike, exploring new places and enjoying a cold beer (or cordial) after a long day.
What’s the coolest thing you saw on the road?
8000 riders taking over the Great Ocean Road in 2004 was a sight to behold. But I distinctly remember after tackling the infamous Lavers Hill, we were rewarded with an incredible view of the ocean as we made our way back to the coast. Riding on roads closed to cars you can take the time to soak it all up.
What’s one thing you’d say to riders going on the ride for the first time?
It might be a challenge to ride and camp for 9 days but it’s also a heap of fun! The Great Vic is like one big family so there’s plenty of encouragement and support to get you across the finish line. And don’t forget to bring plates and cutlery for dinner, unless you want to sheepishly ask someone to borrow some...
What memories will this year’s Great Vic hold? It's not too late to join, register here.
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