Riders assemble for Grampians ride

Preparations are in place for Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation Ararat branch’s annual Grampians Ride to Remember on Sunday.

The 173-kilometre motorcycle ride is a ‘green-corridor’ event that runs under police escort to maximise safety and minimise disruption to other road users.

Organisers are expecting more than 400 riders and pillions from across Victoria and interstate to take part again this year.

This year’s ride will involve an assembly, with bikes gathering in Barkly Street, east of Vincent Street intersection, and trikes assembling in the Ararat RSL car park before the ride departs Ararat at 9am.

Riders will travel on sealed roads, taking in spectacular scenery near the Grampians.

They will travel to Willaura, Wickliffe and then onto Lake Bolac for an hour stop, where a kindergarten group will put on morning tea.

Participants will then travel to Streatham and via Eurambeen Road merge onto the Western Highway and through to Buangor where they will regroup with a water stop.

They will then travel back to Ararat via Warrak for a 12.40pm barbecue lunch in Alexandra Gardens.

A sub-committee including motorcycle enthusiasts, district police officers, representatives from Ararat Rural City Council, Ararat Lions Club and community volunteers as well as foundation Ararat branch members is organising the ride.

Sub-committee chairman Dean Pinniger praised what has become a signature must-do regional event.

“It is a credit to the sub-committee, including a few who have been there since the first ride back in 2008,” he said.

“Last year’s 10th anniversary ride was an incredible success, with so many motorcycle enthusiasts descending on Ararat.

“Many riders keep coming back every year, knowing we organise a safe and enjoyable event. Some make it a weekend stay with most of the local accommodation fully booked.

“We are especially indebted to our Victoria Police – Northern Grampians Region who are heavily involved in the organising before and on the day.”

Mr Pinniger said this year police had organised three ‘solos’ from Melbourne to help with experienced volunteer marshals led by chief marshall Simon Clayfield.

“This year for the first time the local State Emergency Service and Ambulance Victoria have come on board to assist,” he said.

“We are so fortunate to have great major sponsors such as Shannon’s Insurance, Wimmera Motorcycle Co, Ararat RSL and ACE Radio on board, plus other supporters and volunteers who all contribute to the success of the ride.”

Activities at Alexandra Gardens will follow the ride and include a free Show ’n’ Shine as well as displays and Blue Ribbon merchandise for sale.

Ararat Lions Club is handling the task of providing lunch for all the participants, police, marshals, support, volunteers and general public.

On the Saturday night an ‘Arrive Together… Ride Together’ dinner will be at Ararat.

The Grampians Ride to Remember 2019 will recognise Victoria Police who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Proceeds from the event will go towards medical facilities and equipment at East Grampians Health Service, based in Ararat.

People seeking further details or to register can go to website www.try booking.com/yqyn.