TOWNSVILLE TO CAIRNS

Location: QLD
Date: Thursday, July 23, 2026

Experience one of Australia's most inspiring charity cycling events, uniting riders across 374km of Queensland's spectacular coastal landscape. From Townsville's tropical shores to the rainforest-fringed streets of Cairns, this three-day journey combines meaningful purpose with outstanding cycling, supporting the Children's Cancer Institute's crucial research while creating unforgettable memories with like-minded riders.

Date: Thursday-Saturday, 23-25 July 2026

Location: Townsville to Cairns, Queensland

Start: Mercure Inn, Woolcock Street, Townsville

Finish: Cairns Showgrounds

Event Type: Multiday supported charity ride

Distance: 374km total

  • Day 1: Townsville to Ingham (112km)
  • Day 2: Ingham to Innisfail (169km)
  • Day 3: Innisfail to Cairns (93km)

The route showcases tropical North Queensland's diverse landscapes, from sugarcane fields to rainforest ranges. Day one eases riders in with undulating terrain through coastal communities, while day two presents the signature Cardwell Range challenge - a true test of pre-ride training. The final day rewards riders with scenic views of Queensland's highest peak, Mt Bartle Frere, before the triumphant finish in Cairns.

Registrations open on Saturday, 7th March 202,6 on the event website.

2025 Entry Fees:

  • Riders: $425
  • Support Crew: $200

Fundraising Requirement:

  • Minimum $500 per rider
  • All proceeds support Children's Cancer Institute

Registration includes:

  • TCBR ride jersey and t-shirt
  • All meals (except Day 1 breakfast)
  • Two nights accommodation
  • Full route support and rest stops
  • Mechanical support
  • Luggage transfer
  • Training rides and safety check
  • Celebration dinner
  • Official photos and video

From elite performers to social riders, ten pace groups ensure every cyclist finds their perfect match:

Performance Groups:

  • Kangaroos: 40+ km/h
  • Dingoes: 35-40 km/h
  • Emus: 30-35 km/h
  • Bandicoots (Defence/Veterans): 30-35 km/h

Social Groups:

  • Wombats: 28-33 km/h
  • Kookaburras/Eagles/Platypus: 25-30 km/h
  • Galahs: 20-25 km/h
  • Butterflies: 15-20 km/h
  • Front and rear support vehicles per group
  • Regular rest stops with nutrition
  • On-site mechanical support
  • Comprehensive route marking
  • Full medical support
  • Luggage transfer service
  • Pre-event training rides
  • Detailed rider handbook

To Townsville Start

By Air

  • Regular flights to Townsville Airport (TSV) from:
  • Brisbane (2 hours)
  • Sydney (3 hours)
  • Melbourne (3.5 hours)
  • Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar
  • Airport is 10 minutes from start line
  • Bike transport available through major carriers (pre-booking essential)

By Road

  • From Brisbane: 15 hours via Bruce Highway/A1 (1,335 km)
  • From Cairns: 4.5 hours via Bruce Highway/A1 (347 km)
  • Ample parking available near start line
  • Support vehicle parking arranged

By Rail

  • Queensland Rail Spirit of Queensland service
  • Regular services from Brisbane
  • Scenic coastal route
  • Bike transport available (limited spaces)
  • Station is 5 minutes from event start

Return From Cairns

  • Regular flights from Cairns Airport (CNS) to all major cities
  • Optional bike return transport to Townsville available
  • Group transfer rates available for support vehicles
  • Queensland Rail services south

Make the most of your tropical cycling adventure by exploring these iconic Queensland destinations before and after your ride.

Townsville Region (Start)

Castle Hill

  • Iconic pink granite monolith
  • Panoramic city views
  • Perfect for pre-ride photos

The Strand

  • 2.5km beachfront promenade
  • Pre-ride coffee spots
  • Team meet-up location

Museum of Tropical Queensland

  • Regional history
  • Interactive exhibits
  • Family-friendly

Along the Route

Cardwell Lookout

  • Spectacular Hinchinbrook Island views
  • Victory photo opportunity
  • Key challenge point on Day 2

Paronella Park

  • Spanish castle in the rainforest
  • Near Innisfail overnight stop
  • Unique Queensland heritage

Cairns Region (Finish)

Esplanade Lagoon

  • Free public swimming
  • Perfect for recovery
  • Beachfront dining

Kuranda Scenic Railway

  • Historic railway journey
  • Rainforest views
  • Post-ride adventure

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