Warburton’s Cog Bikes and Brew Cafe will celebrate its wonderful community with its Cog Rideshow event which will see locals, riders and outdoor enthusiasts come together.
Taking place from 8am to 4pm on Sunday 3 August, the event will include a free sausage sizzle, relaxed bike workshops and a chance to explore the new Warburton Bike Park.
Cog Bikes and Brew Cafe operations manager Danielle Bortignon said the event wasn’t just for mountain bike riders.
“Events like this bring people together. They are not just for cyclists but for all locals and visitors who can connect over good food, coffee and a shared love for the outdoors,” Ms Bortignon said.
“We are a place where people gather, share stories and feel welcome whether they have ridden in from the trail or just walked over from town.”
The day will kick off with a social ride exploring the new trails at Warburton Bike Park, which starts at 10am and is limited to 25 spots.
Those who wish to attend the event should register here: tinyurl.com/cogrideshow – those under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a guardian.
Meanwhile, the cafe will have a free sausage sizzle from 10am to 12pm. From 12pm onwards, there’ll be free workshops which cover how to get your bike “ride ready” for the new Warburton Bike Park.
“We will be running some free basic workshops/talks throughout the day at Cog Bikes and Brew. These will cover getting your bike ride ready, cleaning your bike, choosing the right bike and others.
“They are perfect for riders of all levels whether you are a casual rider who just wants to keep your bike in good shape,” Ms Bortignon said.
For the business, “seeing the smiles” on locals’ faces remains the best part about hosting community events like these.
“Whether it’s someone learning something new in a workshop, enjoying the social ride, or simply relaxing with a coffee and watching the bikes roll by — it’s those moments that make it special.”
But, Cog Bikes organised the event not only to attract customers but also to promote more positivity and to say thank you amid recent robberies.
“After the challenges we’ve faced recently with the robbery at our Monbulk store, we’re looking forward to filling the day with nothing but positive energy and good vibes,” Ms Bortignon said.
The Ranges Trader Star Mail reported on robberies taking place at Cog Bikes in Monbulk on Monday 12 May, that left the store damaged and several valuable bikes stolen.
The robberies dealt a strong blow to the team and community at the store, the staff shared on social media that the early morning break-in allegedly occurred around 4.23am.
“A number of bikes were stolen, and there’s significant damage,” read the post.
“There’s so much more we could say, as the anger and stress builds — but we’ll hold that back.”
Cog Bikes wanted to acknowledge the community’s support through the event as it brings people together.
“The main purpose is to give back and to celebrate the community that has supported us through the ups and downs,” Ms Bortignon said.
“The past few months have been tough but the kindness and encouragement we have received from locals and visitors have kept us going.”
“It creates a space where people can meet, chat and be part of something uplifting.”
She said the event was the business’s way of appreciating the kindness and benevolence of the community in the Yarra Ranges.
“It is about sharing our love of bikes, food and connection. Hosting an event like this is our way of saying thank you.”
