Date: Saturday 7 March 2026

Courses:

Gravel Fondo: 125km with 1,700m of ascent
Gravel Fondo: 75km with 1,000m of ascent
Piccolo Loop: 35km with 450m of ascent

Gravel Fondo 125km

At 125 km / ~1,700 m climb, the Gravel Fondo Long Course is a big day in the saddle. Expect early asphalt to warm up, then serious climbs (one sustained 2 km+ stretch with some 12 %+) before you hit true gravel country. Rolling gravel segments, some steeper punchy climbs, and long stretches across quiet pastoral terrain will test your endurance, bike handling, and pacing. It’s a ride for strong, confident gravel or mixed-terrain riders.

Gravel Fondo: 75km

Gravel Fondo Medium Course is 75 km / ~1,000 m climb. This is a gentler ride but still "engaging", let's say. You’ll climb out of Glen Innes, transition fairly early onto gravel through scenic valleys and Red Range, then flow through quiet gravel stretches and rolling asphalt. The gradients are less extreme, but there’s still enough climbing to challenge you. The medium course is ideal if you want a solid gravel experience without the full long course’s severity.

Piccolo Loop: 35km

This is a relaxed, scenic intro-level gravel ride. After a gentle start through mixed road surfaces, you ride into Lambs Valley gravel then head out on the out-and-back Linwood stretch before retracing to Glen Innes. This is a solid choice for newer gravel riders or those wanting a shorter taste of the area. And you can still push hard if you want.

Rest stops are provided with water, snacks, and even music.

Post-ride, riders receive a complimentary sausage sling (vegan option available) and cold drink. These are cooked by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Volunteers Crew at Glen Innes Showground.
Organisers recommend you ride at no less than 18kph on all courses.

Registration Costs:

125km: $145.00
75km: $105.00
35km: $80.00

Discounts for Groups:

Groups or Clubs with 5 or more riders can apply for a 10% Discount Code. Just contact the organisers via email at info@goodnessgravel.com before signing up.

Website: goodnessgravel.com/glen-innes

Email: info@goodnessgravel.com

Instagram: instagram.com/goodnessgravel

Facebook: facebook.com/goodnessgravel/

Visit the Minerama Fossicking Gem & Jewellery Show, which will be held at the Glen Innes Showground on the same weekend as the ride.

Visit the Australian Standing Stones, a Celtic-inspired stone circle and solar calendar, with interpretive signage and ambience that evoke Scotland in the New England tablelands.

Take the Glen Innes Heritage Walk / Historical Trail (self-guided) through over 50 heritage buildings in town, absorbing colonial architecture, plaques, and local stories. (Also tied to the “Heritage Walk” brochure from the Visitor Centre)

Fossick for gemstones & crystals in the surrounding countryside, often supported by local operators or via the Emmaville Mining Museum to learn about regional mining history.

Explore Washpool National Park or Gibraltar Range National Park for rainforest walks, granite outcrops, birdlife, and wilderness immersion (within ~45 minutes’ drive).

Browse local art and culture at Glen Innes Art Gallery / Gawura Gallery, or step into the Land of the Beardies History House Museum to connect with local heritage, Celtic roots, and regional stories.

• New England Motor Lodge: a 4-star motel with renovated rooms, suites, studios, and convenient access to Glen Innes’ main street.
• Glen Innes Motel: family-run, centrally located, offering a range of rooms with modern amenities.
• Mimosa Cottage: a cozy retreat in Glen Innes with rustic charm and modern comfort.
• Jillaroo Motor Inn: modest but comfortable motel in Glen Innes, with family and single room options.
• The Bank Guest House: a boutique guesthouse housed in a former bank building, with a warm, intimate vibe in the heart of town.
• Glen Innes Showground Camping: suitable for caravans, tents, or motorhomes/campers. Offers toilets, hot showers, and water tank refilling.