The Noosa Strade Bianche is back

The Noosa Strade Bianche is a celebration of the ‘heroic’ age of cycling and steel-framed bicycles.

By Abbey Cannan

The Noosa Strade Bianche is back for a celebration of the ‘heroic’ age of cycling and steel-framed bicycles, and has grown from humble beginnings in 2011, to perhaps the premier vintage cycling event in Australia.

The event is a homage to the ‘golden age’ of cycling and began with a desire to celebrate this, while sharing Noosa and its beautiful hinterland with others.

Experiencing the region from the perspective of the saddle of a classic steel-framed bicycle, riding over roads less travelled is a unique concept.

The refreshment or brevet stops, are famous for providing great food and liquid refreshments.

The 10th edition welcomes vintage cycle enthusiasts to Noosa, from all over south-east Queensland as well as interstate and overseas, on the weekend of 7 and 8 August, with a growing number of women joining.

Event organisers said it was not a race and although riders don’t need to be super fit, it was not for first-timers. Join the welcome dinner on Saturday night at Pier 11 restaurant at Noosa Marina, and listen to a special guest speaker, or simply enjoy a beer after the event and meet the committee and crew who work tirelessly all year to put the Noosa Strade Bianche event together.

The Noosa Marina, at Tewantin, is again the home for the show and shine event on Saturday 7 August, and as the start and finishing point for the Saturday morning 33 km Piccolo Fondo.

Sunday’s rides are the ‘115km’, Gran Fondo and 86 km Medio Fondo, and the Saturday morning 33km Piccolo Fondo.

The criteria for the bikes are steel frame, with down tube gear shifters or bar end shifters and a keen interest in all things bike.

The Noosa Strade Bianche Association is a not for profit organisation and proceeds from past events have been channelled back into the community and various charities.

All details at noosa-stradebianche.com.au