Parramatta Promenade inc. Carlingford light rail

Meet at the BLAXLAND RD entrance of Rhodes train station. Arrive at 9.45 for a 10am start. Mostly shared pathways, small stretches on quiet roads. We'll cross the Parramatta River and head west on the north shore pathway next to the river, then head up the new light rail path to Carlingford. Its a steady climb. If you want, bring your Opal card to catch the tram to the terminus at Carlingford. We'll turn around there to return to Parramatta on the same trail which is mostly downhill with good views. At Parramatta we'll rejoin the northern riverside pathway going west around Parramatta footy stadium then into the historic Female Factory precinct, where we'll stop for brunch at the Havenstone cafe. We rejoin the light rail path towards Westmead but head left into Parramatta Park for a loop and a half, then back along the river path to Silverwater Bridge, crossing the river and through Wentworth point on the south bank into Rhodes to finish at the starting point at the Blaxland rd entrance of the station.
There will be pedestrians on our journey, so please be considerate, calling or using your bell before passing people or other cyclists. No rushing, We'll stop to regroup as required.
Approx distance of 40 klms.

You need a water bottle, bike in good order, a helmet, spare tube, tools & pump. Sunblock and a sense of humour will be useful. The distance, some chicanes, tight turns and pedestrian traffic means this is best for practiced riders.