Traffic Alert: Thousands To Cycle Through South West

TRAFFIC ALERT

The West Australian/GWN 2009 Great Escapade
Saturday 28 March 2009 - Sunday 5 April 2009.

Western Australian Police, TransWA, Main Roads and Bicycle Victoria, organisers of The West Australian/GWN 2009 Great Escapade bike ride, are urging motorists to be aware of an increase in bike riders, up to 2,000, riding through the South West from 28 March 5 April.

Sarah Greenwood-Smith, Great Escapade Ride Director, says: "With close to 2,000 bike riders taking part in one of the world's most classic bicycle tours, we appeal to motorists for their co-operation and patience".

Bicycle Victoria, along with the Western Australian Police, TransWA, Main Roadsand and Local Councils, are asking motorists to be aware of the increase in cyclists and vehicular traffic in these areas and seek an alternate route where possible.

The Ride will accompanied by police motorcycles, there will also be approximately 60 vehicles supporting the Ride, which will generally follow an alternative route to the Riders.

"It is always quicker to take an alternative route. If this is not possible, please give bike riders 1.5 metres clearance when overtaking; be aware of oncoming traffic and that bike rider's travel at 10-35 km/h, "Ms Greenwood-Smith said.

The Ride begins in Margaret River on Saturday 28 March and stops overnight in Busselton, Donnybrook, Bridgetown, Manjimup, Pemberton (2 days), Nannup and Augusta, before finishing back in Margaret River on Sunday 5 April.

"Many of the roads that we travel along are narrow and winding, indulging the Rider in WA's fantastic scenery. The bike riders, aged from 11 months to 86 years of age, will stretch along the Rider Route between each town" she added.

The 2006 Great Western Australian Bike Ride currently holds the participation record for any Great Escapade held in Australian and New Zealand with 2638 Riders.

The team at Bicycle Victoria hope that the 2009 ride will be embraced by all in the Region which was what ultimately made the 2006 ride so fantastic.

For more traffic information visit: www.greatescade.com.au (Search: Traffic)

SOURCE: Great Escapade, Bicycle Victoria