Mike O'Connor
The Mendooran Food Cycle will return to regional New South Wales on 19-20 September, bringing together two days of gravel riding, local food and country hospitality in the Central West.
Organised by the Central West Cycle Trail Committee, the annual event raises funds to support the ongoing maintenance and signage of the Central West Cycle Trail network while showcasing the region’s cycling routes and local producers.
This year’s program includes a mix of gravel and sealed-road rides designed for a range of abilities, with routes available through the Ride with GPS app. Many of the rides will also be led by experienced local cyclists.
Returning highlights include visits to The Bee Farmer and Black Gate Distillery, the Taste of Mendooran Dinner, rides through Goonoo Forest with the Pop-Up Denmire Café, and the Dunedoo Gran Fondo.
New additions for 2026 include loop rides through Yarragrin Farm featuring a tour of its historic woolshed, weaving workshops using locally sourced materials, soap-making demonstrations and other activities celebrating the region’s rural heritage.
Organisers say spring is one of the best times to explore the area, with wildflowers in bloom and canola fields providing a colourful backdrop for the rides.
“The Mendooran Food Cycle is about much more than cycling,” a spokesperson for the Central West Cycle Trail Committee said.
“It’s an opportunity to experience our beautiful countryside, meet local producers, enjoy exceptional food and hospitality, and discover why the Central West is becoming one of Australia’s great cycling destinations. Every participant also helps support the continued development and maintenance of the Central West Cycle Trail.”
Participants are encouraged to extend their stay by riding into Mendooran and stopping at local businesses along the way, including Mayfield Farm and Cobbora Homestead.
Accommodation is expected to be in high demand, with camping available at the Mendooran Showground, which now features upgraded amenities. Pre-erected tents are also available to hire.
A new addition for this year’s event is a bicycle freight service from Lithgow Station, giving riders the option of travelling to the event without a car.
The Mendooran Food Cycle takes place on 19-20 September. Ride routes remain available year-round through the event website, allowing cyclists to explore the region outside the official event weekend.
For more information and bookings, visit the Central West Cycle Trail website.
Mike O’Connor – A keen cyclist, runner and photographer, Mike O’Connor is the Editor of Bicycling Australia. He manages the BA website and social media, and loves promoting the achievements of Australian cyclists.
