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Byron Shire
June 24, 2026

Putting a positive spin on helping needy kids

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Get fit and help needy kids by joining the annual Variety Cycle, which passes through Byron Bay.
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In 2016, Australia’s most ‘spoketacular’ charity cycling event, the Variety Cycle is urging participants to challenge themselves for Aussie kids in need.

Now in its third year, the new route for 2016 will see cyclists take in the beautiful east coast of Australia, cycling from Sydney to the Great Barrier Reef

Participants can take on the full 15 day ride, or choose their challenge with a range of one, two day and seven day routes, including Sydney to Byron Bay.

This life-changing journey will see a philanthropic peloton clip themselves in and travel through some of Australia’s most scenic regions from April 2nd to 16th. The Variety Cycle 2016 boasts a greater range of shorter cycles than ever before, making it the ideal adventure for everyone from novices through to elite athletes.

The range of options include the full 15 day Sydney to the Great Barrier Reef cycle (2002 kms), challenging seven day cycles from Sydney to Byron Bay route (1023 kms) or Brisbane to Great Barrier Reef (979 kms) as well as three choices of two day cycles (Sydney to Maitland (223kms), Brisbane to Noosa (229kms) or Bundaberg to the Great Barrier Reef (358kms) and the one day ride from Sydney to The Entrance (104kms).

‘The Variety Cycle is more than just a bike ride; it gives participants an exclusive insight into Variety’s vital work and how their fundraising supports Aussie kids in need, ‘ Variety – the Children’s Charity NSW CEO Tam Johnston said.

‘Overwhelmingly one of the highlights of Variety Cycle each year is cyclists being able to meet families on route, visiting schools and local communities to donate much needed resources and equipment along the way and in 2016 we aim to make this even more special than ever before.’

The Variety Cycle is run by experienced staff and includes; front and back support vehicles, bike mechanics, food, accommodation, medical teams and more, so all participants need to do is come along for the ride of a lifetime!

The event was founded in 2013 by long-term Variety supporter, Christopher Mapp. In 2016 he will again be strapping on his helmet, taking on the full 15 day challenge.

‘Having the opportunity to ride through some of the most beautiful parts of Australia with a great bunch of people is an amazing experience,’ he said. ‘Every day there is a chance to have some fun, whether it is an afternoon of surfing or having a few laughs over a long lunch with the team – the friendships and camaraderie you make along the way last a lifetime.’

Find out more and register at www.thevarietycycle.com.au



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