
If you have ever travelled on a two wheeled human powered vehicle, you will know life is better by bike – you see and feel things you just don’t get to experience at 100kph.
NSW Tourism Association has revealed the finalists for the 2025 NSW Tourism Awards, and cycling has come out a winner with Better by Bike being recognised.
Better By Bike Australia is an eco-tourism business in Murwillumbah, NSW, offering e-bike and bike hire, self-guided and guided cycling experiences across the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, Tweed Coast, and Byron Bay. They also operate a retail shop, provide repair services, and offer shuttle transfers for riders or walkers accessing trail points.

Joyful, eco-friendly adventures
Campbell Shepherd, owner of Better by Bike, said Better by Bike is more than just a bike hire. ‘We create joyful, eco-friendly adventures connecting people with nature and community.
‘Since launching alongside the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, over 8,000 riders have joined us. As the trail grows, so will we—promoting this incredible region, supporting local businesses, and sharing smiles, stories, and a love for the land through our “cycle of positivity”.’
It was a record year for the awards with over 230 nominations across the state and 125 finalists in 30 categories.
Mr Shepherd said entering the awards celebrated the passion, innovation, and community spirit driving Better by Bike. ‘Being named a finalist recognises how far we’ve come and inspires us to keep growing, giving back, and helping every rider enjoy the best day ever.

An honour
‘Being a finalist is an honour. It reflects our team’s dedication to creating memorable, sustainable experiences and the amazing community that has welcomed us. Every ride connects people with this beautiful region, and this recognition inspires us to keep spreading joy, supporting local businesses, and showing that sustainable tourism can be fun, meaningful, and impactful.’
The 2025 NSW Tourism Awards will be announced at the NSW Tourism Gala on Thursday, 27 November 2025 in Sydney.


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