West Coast Wilderness

5 February - 13 February 2005

The wilderness and challenge of the 2005 Great Tasmanian Bike Ride^TM was enjoyed by over 1,100 cyclists from 5 - 13 February 2005. From the extreme weather before the start of the Ride, forcing the Spirit of Tasmania back to Port Melbourne with our equipment, to the sunny atmosphere at Salamanca Lawns - it was an awesome experience.

Congratulations to everyone who rode the 572km from Deloraine to Hobart via the West Coast Wilderness. You'll never forget the ride in and out of stunning Lake Barrington, the awesome view along the valley to Cradle Mountain and the sun shining strongly at Tullah. A chance to rest your legs on Rest Day in Strahan - remember your sleep in, boat cruise or train ride? After the climb out of Queenstown to the spectacular Lake Burbury, you were back into the World Heritage Wilderness with a couple of tough days into and out of the Bronte Park Highland Village. The second last day wasn't 'all downhill' coming off the Central Plateau - but we're sure you were all very proud of your achievement as you partied the night away to the band at Bushy Park. What a wonderful finish, with the sun shining down as Hobart welcomed you to the end of the Ride.

 Tony was a keen participant in the ride.     "It was one of the toughest rides that I have been on".  "It was fantastic during the ride andit was even more fantastic when the ride for the day had finished". he aledged to have said.