Dungog Pedalfest: family fun on two wheels of every size and kind

BACK for its 36^th year on 18-20 September, Dungog’s Pedalfest is not ther typical bike festival.

A project of Dungog Rotary Club, Pedalfest is three days of on- and off-track events for kids and adults of all ages and skill levels.

The three days feature pump track, enduro and kids racing, along with lesser-known disciplines like cycle speedway, the Penny Farthing State Championships, and the National Dandy Horse and Footbike titles.

Championships aside, Pedalfest doesn’t take itself too seriously, according to event spokesman Nic McLaughlin.

“We call it three days of smiles,” Mr McLaughlin said.

“Costumes, noisemakers and unusual bikes are all encouraged.

“Whether you ride or not, Pedalfest has something for everyone.”

With modern road racing’s focus on Lycra, technology, and performance, riding on two wheels can seem too serious.

Pedalfest is about fun, bringing locals and visitors together on two wheels of all shapes and sizes.

Friday will see the NSW Schools Mountain Bike Funduro Championships, while the Hunter Schools MTB Pump Track will be held at Dungog’s beautiful Velosolutions pump track.

Pedalfest will also host the NSW Penny Farthing State Championships on Dowling Street. The finale will be the Mulga Bill Bash, a relay combining junior and senior riders.

Visitors and locals can also try riding full-sized or smaller penny farthings to experience cycling of yesteryear, as well as footbikes (think oversized scooters with inflatable tyres) and miniature Dandy Bikes, each featuring in their own championships.

The Kids and Cobwebs is a 4km pedal, with entry fees going to Dungog Public School.

More sedate is the Scones, Jam and Cream ride. Riders pedal from Dowling Street to the historic Thalaba Church, where scones, jam and cream await to refuel them for the return leg.

For visitors, Dungog offers a weekend of Spring sunshine, clean air, rolling green hills, and welcoming locals. Camping at the showground is free, and on Saturday there’s an open-mic night at the Royal Hotel and a film at the town’s historic James Theatre.

Proceeds from Pedalfest go to Dungog Palliative Care and the Dungog Youth Initiative.