Elmhurst - Grampians Extended tour; 342 km, Intermediate Grade

An extension from the Elmhurst weekend, to spend some time travelling to and through the Grampians, at an ideal time of year when the roads are firmer and the wildflowers are in bloom. This is an extended camping tour involving several bush camps, and riders need to be quite self-sufficient regarding equipment and ability to carry food for several days.

We will leave Beaufort on Tuesday 21st September to travel across the western plains for two days then arrive in Halls Gap on Thursday. From here we will resupply to travel through the ranges for four days away from all services. We will visit the Victoria Range, Buandik rock art site, McKenzie Falls, the Difficult Range, and the spectacular cliffs and caves of the northern Grampians. Returning close to Halls Gap we will stay at Pomonal, before a final short ride to Ararat for the train home.

The intended route details are here: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/36748243

This ride involves a lot of gravel roads, for multiple days at a time, and in some cases sections of very rocky and steep trails, both up and down. A robust touring bike, preferably with at least 35mm tyres is advised, 2" even better. The ride is of necessity train-based, but trains running to Ararat are generally running with plenty of space now. I will limit it to 10 riders for practical reasons.

RIDE REGISTRATION FORM
This is to be completed by the day before the ride and can be found at:
www.mbtc.org.au/registration-forms-rider, preferably when you RSVP.

CORONAVIRUS AND RIDES
Please read the COVID guidelines on this group's front page before you RSVP to any events. https://www.mbtc.org.au/covid-19

Etiquette: Social pace. We wait for each other to regroup at key navigational points. No one is left behind with a puncture. On the day, if you cannot make the ride please change your RSVP. Recommend bring pump, tools, spare tube, money, phone with my number in it if we get separated, MYKI, bike lock, wet weather gear if raining. This is a camping tour so tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat and a night torch should be packed. Check your app on the day for any changes. Do bring lights in case we get delayed.

Our club policy is that visitors may participate on three rides before making the decision to join our club for an annual fee of $25. You can join Melbourne Bicycle Touring Club Inc. at http://www.mbtc.org.au/membership/

Benefits include other rides not listed on Meetup, special event meetings, social events, RWGPS club subscription, etc. When I RSVP for this event/activity I acknowledge that the activity of bicycle riding can be dangerous and that I may suffer loss or injury or death and I agree that in consideration of my participation in any event conducted by the MBTC that I will absolve from liability the MBTC, its officers, and any event organiser from all claims, demands, or suits whether for personal injury or property loss suffered whether by negligence or breach of contract or otherwise, save for any right I may have pursuant to the Trade Practices Act 1977 (Commonwealth) as amended. Photos taken of me during MBTC rides or social events may be used for publicity purposes unless otherwise requested. Route and times may change according to circumstances.