ZOO2ZOO - CANBERRA TO DUBBO

Location: ACT
Date: Friday, March 7, 2025

The Zoo2Zoo Canberra to Dubbo ride invites cyclists to an extraordinary three-day journey across New South Wales' picturesque heartland. This carefully crafted route combines challenging cycling with breathtaking scenery, taking riders from Canberra's urban surrounds through rolling countryside and historic rural towns before arriving at Dubbo's iconic Western Plains Zoo. While conquering this 467km adventure, participants become part of something greater – raising vital awareness and funds for the Black Dog Institute's mental health initiatives.

Since its inception, Zoo2Zoo has connected cyclists of various abilities through a shared passion for riding and community support. The 2024 event saw riders collectively raise over $23,000, with one exceptional participant contributing $13,500 alone. Throughout its history, the ride has created countless memories and forged lasting friendships among participants who return year after year for this unique combination of challenging cycling and genuine country hospitality.

Date: Friday-Sunday, March 7-9, 2025

Location: Canberra to Dubbo, NSW

Start Time: 7:00 AM, Friday (National Zoo & Aquarium, Canberra)

Event Type: Multi-day charity road ride

Distance: 467km total over three days

  • Day 1: Canberra to Young (179km)
  • Day 2: Young to Molong (173km)
  • Day 3: Molong to Dubbo (115km)

Elevation: Varied rolling terrain across all three days

Day 1: Canberra to Young (179km)
Departing from the National Zoo & Aquarium, riders quickly leave urban Canberra behind, passing iconic Stromlo Forest Park before rolling into countryside favored by Australia's pro cyclists. With the majestic Brindabella Ranges as your backdrop, the route winds through Yass (81km) for the first major rest stop before continuing through Binalong toward Young. The cherry capital welcomes riders with a well-earned refreshment at the Federation Motor Inn.

Day 2: Young to Molong (173km)
After a short climb leaving Young, enjoy relatively flat terrain into historic Cowra (67km), site of the largest modern military POW breakout. From Cowra, the journey continues to Canowindra for lunch before tackling gentle climbs and rewarding descents through Cudal to reach the picturesque town of Molong. The evening's highlight is the legendary "Kangaroo Court" – a fun tradition where riders playfully issue $2 fines while raising additional funds for the Black Dog Institute.

Day 3: Molong to Dubbo (115km)
The final day begins with a scenic 23km ride to Cumnock, where the aroma of a freshly cooked breakfast awaits. After refueling, riders continue to Yeoval for a coffee stop before tackling the final countryside stretch. The ride culminates with all participants joining together as one peloton for the triumphant arrival at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, where friends and family cheer their achievement. Don't miss the unique "Animals on Bikes" sculptures along the final day's route!

Entry Fee: $675 (includes GST)

Registration Includes:

  • Shared accommodation in Young (Friday) and Molong (Saturday)
  • All meals during the three-day event
  • Full ride support and rest stops
  • Access to support vehicles with snacks and drinks
  • Official Zoo2Zoo riding shirt (additional $100 if needed)

Requirements:

  • Participants must be 18+ years old
  • BicycleNSW membership or equivalent insurance recommended
  • Commitment to safe, responsible riding

While there's no minimum fundraising requirement, all participants are encouraged to raise funds for the Black Dog Institute through personal Everyday Hero pages. Many riders organise creative fundraising initiatives like trivia nights, BBQs, and morning teas, with the average participant raising approximately $1,000.

  • Multiple support vehicles (one per 20 riders)
  • "Sag Wagon" following behind last riders
  • Fully stocked rest stops with food and drinks
  • Experienced support crew (9 dedicated volunteers)
  • Medical assistance as needed

To Canberra (Start)

By Car:

From Sydney: 3 hours via M31 Federal Highway (290km)
From Melbourne: 7 hours via Hume Highway (660km)

By Air:

Regular domestic flights to Canberra Airport from all major Australian cities
Airport is 20 minutes from National Zoo & Aquarium

By Train:

NSW TrainLink services from Sydney to Canberra
V/Line coach connections from Melbourne

From Dubbo (Finish)

By Air:

Daily flights from Dubbo to Sydney with Qantas and Rex
Transport of bicycles should be arranged in advance

By Train:

NSW TrainLink services from Dubbo to Sydney (6.5 hours)
Connects with other regional services

Animals on Bikes Sculpture Trail

  • 120km paddock art trail featuring 111 two-meter-high sculptures
  • Created by local farmers, sculptors, and community groups
  • Unique roadside attraction along the Molong-Cumnock-Yeoval-Dubbo route

Taronga Western Plains Zoo

  • Event finish line and celebration location
  • World-renowned open-range zoo experience
  • Perfect for post-ride family activities

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