About 30 keen riders — so far — will set off on their inaugural ride this Sunday, June 23, from Mooroopna to Colbinabbin, and are hoping it’s the first of many for the group.
The group is called Shepparton VIC Riders and can be found on Facebook.
“We will offer social catch-ups, coffee, dinner and lunch meets, as well as all sorts of ride meets, including learner rides, twisties, overnights, joint rides with other groups, off-road, attending local events as a group, charity rides and more,” admin Jolene ‘Possum Green’ Doller said.
“What, when and how we do this will be driven by the group itself.
“We will post up a lot of polls and ask for the group to tell us what they want to do. Everyone has a voice and we want to hear from everyone.”
Riders of all ages, genders and experience levels, on all kinds of motorbikes, are welcome. If licensed to carry pillion passengers, they are encouraged to bring partners and kids along.
Ms Doller said the group, which was created on May 31 and has already garnered 90 members, was created to form a community of kind, respectful and safe riders who supported each other face-to-face and out and about on the road.
“It will also provide a virtual platform for members to maintain their connection to each other in a safe space that is free from bullying, harassment and discrimination,” she said.
The group was started by Aaron Williams, who also set up sister group Maryborough VIC Riders, for enthusiasts in that area of the state.
He is looking to make a move to Shepparton soon and hoping to replicate the success of the Maryborough group in the Goulburn Valley, with the help of Ms Doller and third volunteer admin Daniel Fox.
Admins say activities will be primarily driven by the group, though, with every member given the opportunity to contribute to where and when it meets, as well as how they get there.
“We will also be offering rides specifically for those looking to build up their confidence, as well as those who like the hills and twisties,” Ms Doller said.
“People can opt in and out as they feel comfortable.
“There might be weekday rides, ironbutt rides (long rides), a catch-up for coffee, a cheeky lunch out at Dookie, a dinner in Undera, a market ride.”
Ms Doller said riding was good for the soul and believed most motorcyclists would agree, noting that winter, in particular, took a toll on people’s mental health and heading on a short trip to a local café could make all the difference in helping them stay connected and engaged with others.
“Given all the issues and challenges everyone is experiencing at the moment, riding gives you a break and time to take a breath,” she said.
“Bikes put a smile on your face and sometimes that’s all it takes to shake off the blues.”
The group will meet at Bill & Beats in Mooroopna at 9.30am this Sunday for coffee before setting off at 10.30am, with the aim of arriving in Colbinabbin for lunch at noon.
Participants are expected to take full responsibility for themselves, with admins saying they had zero tolerance for unsavoury behaviour on the platform and on the road.
“Be yourself, dress for the conditions and come with a full tank of fuel,” Ms Doller said.
People can join Shepparton VIC riders on Facebook for more information, or phone Aaron Williams on 0449 023 089.
Ms Doller also encouraged local businesses to reach out if they would like to host the group for a meal or coffee or let them know of any events of interest.
“We like to support local as much as we can,” she said.
