Torquay cyclist retires and joins Great Vic adventure

AS ONE Torquay resident enters retirement, he is taking on a different challenge by signing up for the TAC Great Vic Bike Ride.

The annual ride has always been something Tom Melican wanted to participate in, but leading into the busiest time of the year it was never a possibility.

Now with some extra time on his hands, the former councillor is preparing to make his way from Mortlake to Camperdown along the Great Ocean Road.

Mr Melican said he was looking forward to the Great Vic Bike Ride and being able to ride along the roads without worrying about cars.

“It’s beautiful to ride along roads when you don’t have to worry too much about other vehicles and you’ve got lots of people riding with you, and it’s good to meet new people and chat.

“But the best part is the fact that you’re riding on roads that are dedicated roads, so you feel much safer and [it’s] much more enjoyable.

“Everyone loves riding on the Great Ocean Road and it’s one of the very special rides in Australia, and with a few small improvements, it would be safe for everyone to ride every day.”

 

In the lead-up to the ride, taking place from November 24 until November 28, Mr Melican has been racking up the kilometres, recently going from Perth to Adelaide and completing Around the Bay.

As part of this year’s Great Vic Bike Ride, cyclists will spend five days on the road, make their way through three towns.

Bicycle Network chief executive officer Alison McCormack said the Great Vic community made the experience an adventure like no other.

“The 2025 ride features 300km of Great Ocean Road coastlines, cliffs and winding country roads – this is what bucket-list biking is all about.”

This year’s ride also has a strong emphasis on a more relaxing experience, with on-route support, luggage transfers, entertainment and more provided throughout the five days.

Mr Melican said the ride was similar to many he has done in the past, but the fully supported aspect was a nice change.

“You don’t have to worry about where you’re staying, you don’t have to worry about having your tent with you, it’s all provided, so it’s much easier.

“All you have to worry about is just riding to the next location.”

For more information, head to greatvic.com.au