Cycling
15 October, 2025
Cyclists conquer scenic Arapiles routes
Keen cyclists from across Victoria and South Australia rolled into Natimuk on Saturday, October 4, for the 2025 Arapiles Cycling Event (ACE Ride), and raised $2500 for local causes.
Event manager Mark Radford said the day began perfectly.
“The day started with beautiful weather — lovely sunshine and a little bit of fog in the morning, as with spring, you never know what you’re going to get,” he said.
“The first riders left Natimuk at 8am on the 105-kilometre course, and most finished in about four hours.
“Some of the fastest were just under three, which is pretty quick.”
Four courses were offered — 105km, 77km, 45km and 20km — drawing 118 riders in total, the largest turnout since the event moved to Natimuk.
“It’s not a race, but riders do set a goal for themselves,” Mr Radford said.
“We had 52 in the 105-kilometre section, and the rest joined the shorter routes.
“They all had beautiful scenery, as the canola’s out, the crops are looking good, and the conditions were perfect.”
To keep everyone going, local volunteers staffed rest stops offering cake, drinks, and energy food.
“We had rest stops along the way with volunteers giving out cake, lollies, snacks and energy food to keep them going,” he said.
“We’ve never had so many positive comments from riders coming back; everyone was thrilled.”
The event attracted participants from far and wide.
“The furthest rider came from Traralgon in Gippsland, and we had a really good contingent from South Australia — Mount Gambier, Naracoorte, Berri, and Adelaide,” he said.
“For many, the Wimmera’s open farmland and Mount Arapiles backdrop offer something different from the usual coastal or forest rides.”
The ACE Ride continues to grow as a regional tourism drawcard, with many participants staying locally.
“They make a weekend of it, as most stay Friday and Saturday night, visit the Grampians, the wineries; it’s a big boost for local tourism,” he said.
Beyond the physical challenge, the event raised $2,500 for different local causes.
“Part of the rider fees go to community groups — this year we supported Wimmera Against Cancer in Kids and the Natimuk Lions Club,” he said.
He credited the team of 20 volunteers for making the event possible.
“I’ve got to give credit to the team — they’re all volunteers, and we can’t do it without them,” he said.
“Our treasurer comes from Birchip, our safety warden from Kaiva — everyone gives their time.”
Looking ahead, Mr Radford said the committee is considering a new gravel route for next year.
“If we go again, we’ll investigate having a gravel option,” he said.
“It’s something riders are asking for across the state.”
He also extended thanks to the community and partners.
“We couldn’t do it without Horsham Rural City Council, St John Ambulance, VicRoads, Victoria Police, CFA, the Salvation Army, and of course, local media for the ongoing support,” he said.
“It’s a big team effort, and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved.”