Skip to main content
Date: 1/14/2026
Subject: Bike North Newsletter 14 January 2026
From: Bike North



14 January 2026     Your Bike North NewsLETTER

Plenty of congratulations to go around

Adding to last week's feature on the opening of the Harbour Bridge Ramp
we also acknowledge the advocacy of Bike North life members
and former Bicycle NSW board members
Darryn Capes-Davis and Graeme Edwards over a number of years in bringing about this momentous achievement"
 
CLICK HERE for the Bicycle NSW article
 

David Thomson

President | Bike North 
0419 227 213

The Northern Rivers Trail

 
In addition to last week's pictorial. Between Christmas and the New Year, Marjorie and Judy set out to explore both open sections of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail—an emerging 132 km recreational corridor that winds through some of the most spectacular countryside in Australia’s Tweed Shire. Using Lismore as a convenient base for three nights, they enjoyed relaxed out‑and‑back rides without the need to pack up each day.
 
Their first adventure tackled the longer Lismore–Casino section, a newly opened stretch that follows the former rail corridor through rolling farmland and historic railway features. Along the way they passed classic timber bridges, wide open rural vistas, and remnants of the region’s rail heritage—quiet, scenic riding with just one steep climb. The remaining gentle gradients made it easy to settle into a rhythm and soak up the expansive Northern Rivers landscape.
 
The next day offered a change of pace on the shorter Crabbes Creek–Murwillumbah section, the first part of the trail to open back in 2023. It was buzzing with families enjoying the smooth surface, bike‑hire options, and easy access to cafés and local attractions in places like Stokers Siding and Burringbar. Both rides showcased why the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is quickly becoming a must‑do cycling experience—beautiful, accessible, and rich with regional character. 
 
A note of caution though, if you are planning to visit be aware that many of the attractions are closed on Sunday and Monday. You can find lots of information and maps to plan your trip by visiting https://www.northernriversrailtrail.com.au/You can also watch the YouTube videos below to get a detailed description of each trail: 
 
 
There is also plenty to see and do on your way up and back to break up the journey. If you would like to know more have a chat with Marjorie or Judy.
 

Judy

Tour de Cowra 2026

 
This year will be a little different with some exciting additions coming, but still the familiar, fantastic format. The website will be updated in February for the Easter event, but for the meantime, most of the 2025 details and information will remain. See here: Tour de Cowra - Bike North Inc. (Please do read it if you have never been before).  Tour de Cowra is held each year at Easter.  
 
You will be with very good company, roads with rural traffic that are respectful of other road users and social events more than usual so everyone can enjoy the experience. 
 
There will be four days of beautiful cycling with a choice of route lengths each day and for those with fat tyres, a gravel ride each day. Membership or the temporary membership available for a month are advised but non-members are welcome too.
 
So, to complete the best of your Bike North experience, be there.  Having enjoyed it once you will undoubtedly want to come again, as many do.

 

G. Gibbons

Committee Head, Tour de Cowra 2026

0427 27 3339


CHAIN REACTION ARTICLE DEADLINE

Bike North members are keen to hear about your rides and ideas. Send your article to editor@bikenorth.org.au by 1.00pm each Tuesday for publication in our weekly newsletter Chain Reaction or for your article to be added to our News library.
Before sending your ideas please read the Guidelines for Contributors.

Submit your article

BICYCLE NSW DISCOUNT

Did you know that membership of Bike North entitles you to a 15% discount on a membership to Bicycle NSW? Use code 15NORTH when you join or renew. Bicycle NSW members receive global, comprehensive (personal accident and public liability) rider insurance and a range of other benefits as well as advocacy and legal support.

Find out more

Connect With Us

info@bikenorth.org.au
ABN 54 709 768 966