The Myers Creek/Chum Creek roads loop, one of the most popular HEALESVILLE and Marysville communities are gearing up to give more than 160 cyclists from around the world a huge welcome, and well done, as they push pedalpower to the limit in the Jayco Herald Sun Tour next week.
Now in its 54th year, the 2005 tour commences on Sunday, 9 October in Williamstown and finishes in Lygon Street on Saturday, 15 October, covering about 700 kilometres across Victoria in seven stages.
But, it’s stages four and five, which have set the wheels spinning in Marysville and Healesville.
Stage 4, on Wednesday, 12 October, is the longest stage at 172 kilometres. The riders take off from Mitchelton Winery in Nagambie and finish in Murchison Street, Marysville, outside The Cumberland at around 2.15pm.
The riders will see, albeit fleetingly, the magnificent landscape of towns including Yea, Molesworth, Alexandra, Eildon, Thornton, Taggerty and Buxton before riding into Marysville.
Community celebrations are planned in Marysville during the afternoon, and in keeping with the theme of bike riding and physical activity, through Vic Health’s partnership with the tour, some novelty bike riding events are planned and people of all ages (not just the kids) are encouraged to participate. The local police will be involved with bike safety and bike registration.
There will be official presentations, tour displays and opportunity to get autographs from the tour competitors. The Marysville businesses are staying open for extended trading.
On Thursday, 13 October, Healesville will be centre stage for the 140kilometre tour of the Yarra Valley, which starts and finishes in the town.
The hills around Healesville will test the stamina of the riders as the course takes in the Healesville Kinglake Road, Toolangi, Myers Creek Road and Chum Creek Road to Healesville.
There is also the opportunity for the public to join the fun by participating in the “Go for your Life” Gran Fondo ride over the same course as the pros.
The Main Street will be closed between Church Street and Green Street for the day with street stalls, Vic Health community activities and local businesses getting into the raceday spirit.
The Chamber of Commerce met on Monday night to put the finishing touches to Healesville’s activities and the Mail will have more details in our next edition.
The tour continues across Yarra Ranges Shire on Friday, 14 October when the competitors tackle a 10.5kilometre uphill time trial from Monbulk to Mt Dandenong.
Community participation has been part and parcel of the Herald Sun Tour throughout its history spurring the riders on and adding to the atmosphere in the townships along the way.
So, make a date to line the roadside and cheer the competitors through your town.
For detailed information on routes and schedules visit the tour website www.heraldsuntour.com.au
