The fourth annual goodnessgravel riding event was another outstanding success.
135 riders experienced the local sights as part of a weekend cycling event at Glen Innes on Saturday 12th April 2025.
An Australian bike event company, goodnessgravel, in partnership with the Glen Innes Severn Council, hosted this gravel riding mini-festival.
On Saturday, the main event consisted of a 125 kilometre ride with over 1,700 metres of climbing, there was also a shorter 75 km ride with over 1,000m of climbing and then a ‘Piccolo’ course of 35 km course with 450m of climbing with all courses traveling through the glorious gravel roads to the east of Glen Innes.
Many riders stayed for the entire weekend and headed out on their own on Sunday to explore more of the region, following some of the other gravel courses which were designed for riders by goodnessgravel a few years ago. These courses showcase the spectacular seasonal changing of colour on well-maintained gravel roads.
Will Levy, goodnessgravel owner, said these events showcase the unbelievable network of gravel roads and stunning scenery throughout the region “One of the great things about this event is that we are using pre-existing infrastructure and riding along the quiet roads throughout the district” Levy said. “This was our fourth event and we are really looking forward to hosting more events in future years.”
Levy continued “gravel riding uses existing roads and is low impact. It brings in much needed tourist dollars. Our records show that 85% of all participants are from outside the region and stay at least one day and most stay for two.” The courses are suitable for everyone from kids and families to professionals and riders on e-bikes.
The event received great support with volunteers from the Westpac Rescue Helicopter team who – besides assisting with the registration process and rest stops – cooked a complimentary barbecue for all the riders when they finished at the Glen Innes Showgrounds
