TOUR DE GONG

Location: NSW
Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025

The Tour de Gong transforms Wollongong into a cycling celebration, building on the city's prestigious UCI Bike City status and the legacy of the 2022 World Championships. This two-day festival combines high-level competition with community participation, offering everything from criterium racing to family-friendly charity rides along the iconic coastal route.

The event supports Southern Youth and Family Services, aiming to raise $60,000 for vulnerable and homeless young people through the Ride4Rotary component.

Date: Saturday & Sunday, May 17-18, 2025

Location: Wollongong, NSW

  • Day 1: Goolagong Street Reserve, Avondale
  • Day 2: Marine Drive, Wollongong

Event Types:

  • Competitive Racing (AusCycling licensed riders)
  • Community Charity Rides (all abilities)

Racing Program

Day 1: Road Race

  • Technical circuit through Avondale
  • Multiple grade categories (A-E Grade Men, A-D Grade Women)
  • Distances: 40.8km to 81.6km depending on grade
  • Challenging course with varied terrain

Day 2: Time Trials & Criterium

  • Iconic coastal course from Marine Drive to Flagstaff Hill
  • Time trial advantages carry into afternoon criterium
  • Technical cornering with ocean views
  • Multiple race formats testing different skills

Ride4Rotary Community Routes

  • Loop the Lighthouse (1.8km): Perfect for families and beginners
  • 10km Coastal Journey: Introductory distance with scenic views
  • 20km Explorer: Intermediate route showcasing Wollongong's highlights
  • 29km Challenge: Extended course for experienced recreational riders

Racing Categories

  • Full weekend racing pass: $150
  • Includes all three events (Road Race, Time Trial, Criterium)
  • Valid AusCycling Race All Discipline membership required

Ride4Rotary Community Rides

Early Bird Pricing (until March 7):

  • Loop the Lighthouse: from $5 (kids) / $10 (adults)
  • 10km Route: from $10 (kids) / $20 (adults)
  • 20km Route: from $15 (kids) / $30 (adults)
  • 29km Route: from $25 (kids) / $40 (adults)

Racing Grades

  • A Grade: Elite competitive racing
  • B Grade: Advanced club level
  • C Grade: Intermediate racing
  • D/E Grade: Development racing
  • Separate men's and women's categories

Community Rides

  • Family: Loop the Lighthouse (1.8km)
  • Beginner: 10km coastal route
  • Intermediate: 20km explorer
  • Advanced: 29km challenge
  • Professional race commissaires
  • Medical support teams
  • Recovery zone with fruit and hydration
  • Mechanical support
  • Festival hub at Lang Park
  • Bike expo and community activities
  • Event Organiser: Illawarra's Rotary Clubs
  • Website: ridewollongong.com.au
  • Email: info@ridewollongong.com.au
  • Facebook: /ridewollongong
  • Instagram: @ridewollongong

By Car

  • From Sydney: 1.5 hours via M1 Motorway (85 km)
  • Follow M1 south to Memorial Drive exit
  • Follow signs to Wollongong City Centre
  • From Canberra: 3 hours via Hume Highway/M31 (250 km)
  • From Melbourne: 9 hours via Hume Highway/M31 (870 km)

By Train

  • Regular services from Sydney Central to Wollongong
  • South Coast Line (2 hours)
  • Services every 30 minutes during peak
  • North Wollongong Station: 5-minute ride to Marine Drive
  • Bike transport permitted on trains (off-peak recommended)

Recovery & Refreshments

Family Activities

  • Wollongong Science Centre
  • Interactive exhibits
  • Planetarium shows
  • Perfect for kids
  • North Wollongong Beach
  • Patrolled swimming
  • Coastal walking paths
  • Playground facilities
  • Nan Tien Temple
  • Largest Buddhist temple in Southern Hemisphere
  • Peaceful gardens
  • Cultural experience

Natural Attractions

Accommodation Options

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