Road users in and near Williamstown are being asked to take care on the roads as thousands of bike riders take on Australia’s biggest bike ride, United Energy Around the Bay on Sunday, October 8.
10,000 bike riders have registered in one of the events seven ride options: Family Ride, 50km, 100km, 135km, 200km, the classic 220km loop and 300km ride distances.
Bicycle Network, along with the Victoria Police, VicRoads and local councils are asking local road users to be aware of the increase in bike traffic, changed traffic conditions and extended travel times.
They advise local road users to seek an alternate route where possible.
All rides start and finish at Albert Park Lake where an event village will provide a range of entertainment to help celebrate everyone’s achievement.
Riders will be on roads after leaving Albert Park Lake from 5:00am until 7:00pm.
At times there will be road closures, speed reductions, the presence of traffic controllers and police.
Bicycle Network chief executive Alison McCormack said road users will notice the extra bike riders in their local areas and she asks them to be mindful when using the roads.
“Bicycle Network is working with local authorities including councils, VicRoads and Victoria Police to implement a number of changes to traffic conditions to minimise the risks for all road users,” she said.
“With 10,000 bike riders, including many children on the Family Ride, 50km and 100km ride options, we do ask other road users to plan ahead and allow extra time if they need to travel on the route.
“We’d like to thank locals and visitors for their cooperation and patience during the event.
“Some of the participants will be very experienced bike riders while others will be saddling up for their first Around the Bay.”
Residents will still have access to properties, however it’s recommended that locals allow extra time or seek alternative routes if possible.
