Date: Saturday, 6th September 2025

Location: Dandry Gorge, Timmallallie National Park (Pilliga Forest) near Baradine, NSW. Start/finish at Pilliga Pottery, 2630 Dandry Road, Coonabarabran.

Start Times: Briefing 8:30 AM, rides commence 9:00 AM

Event Type: Forest adventure cycling

Distance Options: 12km, 27km, 53km

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (suitable for ages 5+ with adult supervision)

Epic Challenge (53km): The ultimate Pilliga experience featuring technical forest tracks, creek crossings, and sustained climbs through the heart of the forest. This route demands solid mountain biking skills and endurance, rewarding riders with access to the most remote and spectacular sections of the park.

Adventure Loop (27km): Perfect for intermediate riders, this route combines forest trails with stunning geological features. Experience the forest's diverse ecosystems while tackling manageable challenges that build confidence and skills.

Family Explorer (12km): Designed for families and newer riders, this scenic route focuses on the wonder of the forest environment. Suitable for children aged 5+ when accompanied by adults, featuring gentle terrain and frequent opportunities to appreciate the unique landscape.

All routes wind through striking sandstone formations, ancient cypress pine stands, and offer glimpses of native wildlife in their natural habitat.

• Standard Registration: AUD $30 per rider, if booked in advance online.
• Late Registration: On-the-day registration is not guaranteed.
• Registration Includes: The registration fee covers participation in the ride, the event pack, and support throughout the course (marshals, aid stations, first aid, sweeper vehicle). It also often includes a small souvenir (e.g. a finisher’s certificate or wristband) and entry in door-prize draws.
• Note: Food and merchandise are extra. There will be a community BBQ and drink stalls at the finish where riders can purchase food (proceeds typically support a local school or charity).

• Aid Stations: Two aid stations are available—one at 6 km (turnaround for the 12 km route) and another at 25 km (before the toughest hills on the 50 km route), stocked with water, electrolytes, and snacks.
• On-Course Marshals & Signage: Marshals and NPWS rangers guide riders at key intersections, with the route clearly marked by arrows and ribbon tape.
• Sweeper/SAG Wagon: A sweeper rider and a 4WD support vehicle follow the pack to assist riders who withdraw or experience mechanical issues.
• First Aid & Medical: Trained first aid staff and NPWS rangers are stationed at the start/finish area and on-course, with emergency services on standby.
• Mechanical Support: A volunteer mechanic is available for last-minute tweaks, while the sweep crew can assist with minor repairs, but riders should bring their own spare tubes and tools.
• Refreshments & Amenities: The event hub offers a BBQ, coffee stall, water station, and toilets, with a bag drop area and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere post-ride.
• Sustainability: Riders must respect the "leave no trace" policy, dispose of rubbish properly, and stay on marked trails to protect the national park’s environment.

• Event organiser: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS, Northern Inland Region) – in partnership with the local Gawambaraay Pilliga Aboriginal Co-management Committee and Friends of Pilliga.
• Email: pilliga.discoverycentre@environment.nsw.gov.au
• Phone: (02) 6843 4011
• Website: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

• By Car:
• The event is 33 km north of Coonabarabran and 45 km south of Baradine, with the last 10 km on unsealed gravel, accessible by 2WD with caution.
• By Air:
• The nearest airport is Narrabri (100 km, 1.5-hour drive), with other options including Dubbo (180 km), Moree, and Tamworth, all requiring car rental.
• By Public Transport:
• Limited options exist, with coach services to Coonabarabran and Narrabri, but a private vehicle or carpool is needed for the final stretch.
• Parking:
• Free parking is available at the event site, but overnight camping is not allowed, and mobile reception is unreliable, so plan ahead.

Sculptures in the Scrub Walking Track: This 3 km loop at the event site features five Aboriginal-inspired sculptures, lookouts over Dandry Gorge, and interpretive signs.

Pilliga Pottery & Blue Wren Bush Café: A working pottery studio with a gallery, a farmstay, and a café serving homemade meals, wood-fired pizza, and fresh coffee.

Pilliga Forest Discovery Centre: Located 30 km from Dandry Gorge, this visitor center has interactive displays, artifacts, and maps about the Pilliga’s ecology, history, and Aboriginal heritage.

Pilliga Forest Lookout Tower & Salt Caves: A historic cave and fire-spotting tower offering panoramic forest views, picnic areas, and excellent birdwatching.

Warrumbungle National Park & Siding Spring Observatory: Features volcanic landscapes, iconic hiking trails, dark sky stargazing, and Australia’s largest optical telescope.

Local Eateries & Shops: Baradine has classic country pubs, while Coonabarabran offers cafés, bakeries, restaurants, and a unique observatory dining experience.