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.

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.

Cairns Post general manager Andrew Reeves, Connect Sport managing director Bade Stapleton and North Queensland Airports CEO Richard Barker launch the event at the Cairns Airport. Picture: Brendan Radke

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.

Originally published as Gran Fondo Festival to attract cyclists to Port Douglas event