Established in 2017, the Rotary Tour of the Blackwood is one of the most challenging rides in Western Australia. Starting by the banks of the mighty Blackwood River, the Full Tour meanders some 130km through stunning countryside between beautiful Bridgetown and the magical townsites of Balingup and Nannup, and features over 2000m of climbing including a Category 4 ascent toward the finish line.
We have created three courses to challenge a wide range of riders fitness and experience. The Not-So-Cozy ride is a great introductory event to encourage community participation and to get beginners taking on their first significant road ride. The longer rides are significantly more challenging and are aimed at more experienced riders. The Full Tour and Half n Best start at Bridgetown River Park, with the Not-So-Cozy commencing in Greenbushes. All rides finish at the River Park and are electronically timed.The Half n Best and the Full Tour are both challenging rides; these courses run through beautiful farmland, forests, river valleys and pretty townsites. The Full Tour starts at 7am, Half n Best at 9am and the Not-So-Cozy at 10:00am.
Riders should start coming in at the finish line at around lunchtime that day, and spectators are encouraged to come down and cheer the riders through as they finish!
NEW Numbat Gravel Experience ride leaving from River Park after the Full Tour it follows the Blackwood River along Tweed Rd east. Then south to the Kingston National Park where you could see a Numbat! Then heading north to Jayes Bridge and back via Elwins Rd and Kangaroo Gully to the Bridgetown River Park.
The Gravel Experience is a course aimed at those riders that have gravel bikes that want to join in the fun with those on road bikes. Also those previous riders that want a change from the paved roads.
All proceeds from this ride are donated to support mental health. The main beneficiaries are Blackwood Youth Action and The Bridgetown Greenbushes Suicide Prevention Network along with other mental heath projects.
So come and experience the heart of the South West on the Rotary Tour of the Blackwood. Book your place today and be part of an unforgettable journey!