Gran Fondo Festival to attract cyclists to Port Douglas event
Port Douglas to expect a $21m boost to the local economy from an inaugural cycling festival in September and with limited spots, keen riders need to book their place in the peloton.
Cairns
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CYCLISTS are getting ready to hit the road for the ride of a lifetime near two World Heritage areas.
Port Douglas’ inaugural Gran Fondo Festival, founded by Connect Sport Australia, is open exclusively to 3,000 lucky cyclists from September 9-11 along the Great Barrier Reef Drive, close to iconic reef and rainforest.
The festival boasts a timed 136km and 100km Gran Fondo return from Port Douglas to Palm Cove, with a one-way leisurely Medio Fondo ride from Palm Cove to Port Douglas.
The event gets under way in September with a sponsors’ expo, local bands and an official launch as cyclists tackle The Cairns Post Criterium.
The event will inject more than $21m into the local economy in the first three years.
Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said: “Major events like this can ensure the long-term sustainability of our local tourism industry and bring a festival atmosphere to the village for locals to enjoy.”
The site has options for accommodation and an itinerary to turn your event presence into a much needed holiday for you and your family.
Get in quick as registrations open today at www.portdouglasgranfondo.com.au.
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Originally published as Gran Fondo Festival to attract cyclists to Port Douglas event