THE BEGINNING 

Kia Ora and welcome to my Story. My name is Steve Halligan.

The beginning was when I first heard about this event in 2017. I was hooked on the idea immediately and signed up soon after. Lots of riding and gear testing ensued, and I was excited about riding top to bottom in Australia.

In 2017 I completed a dream to ride and finish the Tour Divide, a 4,400 km ride from Canada to Mexico. This was an amazing adventure that pushed my limits on every level. Now here was the Terra Australis Bike Epic looking me in the eyes, and luring me in with a bigger distance by 2,000 kilometres, different Terrain and different wildlife. Of course, I was mesmerised and strongly desired to take this on and challenge myself some more. The fact that this was the race’s inaugural running was extra special and motivating to get to the start line.

 

  After plenty of riding through the New Zealand winter, the start date of September 15th rolled around quickly. I left New Zealand on the 12th flying to  Cairns then the following day flew up to Bamaga , in far north Queensland .

 Arriving safely at Bamaga airport, basically a tin shed building with some seating and a vending machine, Myself and Steven Mcleod, another TA rider began putting our bikes back together after our travels from New Zealand.  I then rode out into the hot sun towards Bamaga Township and onwards to Punsand camping resort, where I had booked a cabin for 2 nights. Steve stayed around the Bamaga township to be assured of WiFi to complete some work.

Ten other adventurous spirits had signed up, including Steve Watson, the race organiser. We all met up the night before for a race briefing, excitement was building, and I was ready.

   After riding up to the car park, and then walking over the rocks to the Tip for obligatory photos, we were off shortly after 6 am, on the 15th of September 2018. We were off, into the adventure, into the heat, into Cape York Wilderness. This is wild!

Anyone who was following the race on Trackleaders website may have being confused in the first few days as course deviations were happening . This was made more confusing and tricky to manage as there is not much/zero cell phone coverage in Far North Queensland so communications were an issue. Concerns and fears all played a part. The first few days were tough, with Sand, Corrugations, Heat and many Creek Crossings on the Old Telegraph Track and Frenchmans Track. It can take a few days for the body to adjust to riding big distances, in the heat and different conditions, this was the case for me, especially as I had some tonsillitis a few days before the start and was feeling a bit average.

Everybody will have their own story to tell, and everyone can take responsibility for their decisions and I respect everybody’s choices. Personally, after being off route, wondering whats going on and with time to clear my head , I knew I wanted to get back in the Race and on the course. I did not want to just ride down the country creating my route, I love the race element and the mission, to follow the course and get to the end with targets and a sense of purpose.

I did regret letting others’ opinions influence my decision to join everyone else and not take the correct route, I promised myself I would never let that happen again.

 Once riders were able to receive messages and seeing as some riders were off route,  and not completing the course completely, we were informed by Race Director Steve Watson, that we had the option to get back on the race course at Mareeba and continue from there.  I went directly to Mareeba !!

 After being off route myself, it felt like no man’s land, I was so happy to be back on track, riding out West to Longreach. I noticed some other riders decided to go south from Mareeba, therefore in touring mode. I think apprehension about water shortages because of the ongoing drought and the very hot temperatures and Remoteness influenced riders decisions .

  I was the first person heading out west and I was feeling good, excited to be cycling into the unknown racing my bike.

After about 210 km I camped in the bush about 42km past Chillagoe, it was close to midnight and the night air was warm, I slept soundly.

Another early start, 5 am,  I set off in the cooler morning air for a big day finishing in Georgetown just in time to grab some food.

The next day riding out to the Gilberton Station Retreat was amazing, hot, dry interesting undulating terrain. Arriving late afternoon, I was greeted by Lyn and her two grandchildren who drove out a few km to meet me on her Quad bike. The best welcome of the race. Lyn and Rob own and run the station as well as offering some Donga accommodation to weary travellers as well as offering a more upmarket Retreat space for a getaway that’s a little bit different. Their open warm welcome made my decision to stay the night very easy, even though it was way earlier than I’d normally stop riding for the night. A warm shower, a bed,( first of the trip) great food and company. This was a perfect reset to prepare for the  319km to Hughenden, the next service town on the route.

 A tough start leaving the station at about 5 am, with tricky navigation, cattle tracks and some bush bashing. After a couple of hours, I was out on a somewhat formed track, and my pace picked up. I made it to about 60 km north of Hughenden and camped alongside the road. An enjoyable day, 1982 km on the odometer since leaving the tip of Cape York ten days before.

  A stunning sunrise greeted me for the sealed road ride into Hughenden, my first stop was the Bakery and coffee. Delicious!!

 

The next 210km section between Hughenden and Muttaburra was a very tough day on the bike. Finding water on this stretch was challenging, I checked many Billabongs, and they were dry, eventually, I spotted a cattle trough  200 metres from the road across the fence, filled up and filtered the water. This stretch had very little shade, it was a very open country with long straight stretches of gravel road and little traffic, the wind was strong and hot and many mini Tornados were forming, creating impressive dust funnels with Tumbleweed blowing across the road. I got hit by one of these, that almost blew me off the road.   I also raced a Kangaroo along this section,  with a wire fence on both sides the kangaroo just kept hopping, at speed along the fence in front of me.  I attempted to keep pace, this went on for 3 or 4 kilometres. I was impressed with its stamina in this heat. Eventually, it came to a stop , looked at me as I got closer, did not move as I passed, and then suddenly bolted in the other direction. After a minute I looked back to see the Kangaroo still hopping at speed in the opposite direction. That’s something I do not see in New Zealand.

After pushing hard to get to Muttaburra in the hope  somewhere would be open to get some food, I pulled up outside the Exchange Hotel  not long after dark . It was open, a few guys were enjoying their beer on the Verandah. After a friendly chat and a few questions, they struggled to comprehend the riding I had done in the previous 11 days. I  wandered wearily into this classic old bar, and asked the Barman, if there was any food available. Without a word, he pointed up to a blackboard menu. With a distinct lack of vegetarian options I ordered chips and Salad, the barman, clearly drunk, scribbled something on a notepad and walked off without saying a word.  Was it me ? a tired dust-encrusted cyclist or him, too much drink to expel any words from his mouth?   I did not care, I was happy to be there, food ordered and drinking a sugar-laden beverage.  One hour later, The barman came out, and spoke to me verbally for the first time, did you order food?  Yes.  He walked off to the kitchen, came back and said sorry, ‘ we are out of chips’.   We could make you some potatoes and salad !!   Yes great that will do!       After this he was talking more, telling me about all his problems with a previous chef that he had to get rid of, the previous night. Minutes later I was informed my food was ready, in another room on the other side of the bar.  I had a Salad, no potatoes ………

  I asked If I could I roll my mat out on the floor to crash for the night, he said I could sleep in a bed, in another building out the back if i wanted.. One of the girls showed me to this building, it was a Ramshackle place with crap everywhere and ashtrays full of cigarette butts. I was too tired to care, jumped in bed and slept, smiling to myself, what a bizarre evening and end to another amazing day on this grand adventure.

The 118 km to Longreach was, once again dry and dusty and Hot, It was great to get here, the biggest town since Mareeba and a landmark on the race route, as I would not be going any further west. It was time to head in a more  Easterly direction for 1554 km to Byron Bay.

 I spent a few hours in Longreach, resupplying and refuelling.  At this stage I had cycled about 2,350 km, and I was feeling really good and ready to move on to the next stage. The weather up to this point was generally hot, which I don’t mind.  After a New Zealand winter, it was welcome.  Decent food was at times difficult to find, mainly because it was not there! Even more challenging for a vegetarian.  Bananas, salted nuts and energy bars were the main items in my diet with a sit-down meal where possible. I had plenty of Electrolytes in capsule and powder form with me, I feel this was crucial in these conditions.

 

 

I rode  129 km past Longreach well into the night before camping alongside the road. This was pretty uneventful except for a moment that scared the crap out of me.  This trip involved riding over lots of cattle grids, no big deal , right !   At about 10 pm on this beautiful calm night, I rode over a grid that activated a very loud alarm. This gave me a hell of a shock and snapped me out of my weary state. My thoughts started going wild, I had visions of angry farmers coming out accusing me of trespassing.   It happened once more a while later, not as much of a shock, but still unnerving.   Later found out it was to deter wild dogs and other creatures.

  Breakfast was welcome in Blackall, then onto Tambo for resupply and later camping in the bush after a 292 km day. 

Riding through this very dry land which is gripped by drought I was constantly looking for water and always topped up when I found some. Any water would do, I jumped fences and filtered water from cattle troughs and tanks, and also some Billabongs, although most of them were dry out here. I never did run out of water, I know this was a concern of some other riders.

Many days passed out here and would hardly see any human activity, it was mainly wildlife that kept me amused as I rode through epic sparse landscapes. Time in my own company, my thoughts. A great opportunity for ideas to birth and flourish. I would stop often to write ideas and inspirations in the Notes on my phone.The solitude and calm that comes with riding in remote places for endless days is something that I embrace.

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A 265km approx day got me to Injune after dark, another Hot and Dusty day. Decided to get a cabin at the campground and have a well-required shower and a bed.Amazing!

The next available service on the route was 240 km away, at a place called Miles. I had a great day, feeling refreshed and strong getting to Miles just before dark. I restocked at the IGA, then as I was riding out through town I saw two cyclists outside another supermarket. It was Bernarda Juric and Sinisa Babic, two riders who had started the race at the tip of Cape York. Later on at Mareeba, they decided to leave the race route and continue south, on their journey. It was cool to catch up with some familiar faces. I rode a further 43km to stop at Condamine, again I saw Bernarda and Sinisa, sitting in the Verandah of the local pub having a beer… another brief chat, and I went to look for a place to stealth camp. I found a school and rolled out my mat undercover and out of sight , slept well for 4 or 5 hours . I did not cross paths again with the guys !!

 

I arrived in what felt like a bit of a forgotten town, Tara, mid-morning and resupplied then moved on into the heat of the day.

As long as I have water, the heat is not a problem for me, and generally ride through the mid-day sun, with some shady stops to have a break. For someone originally from Ireland, like myself, this is unusual. Most Irish people start melting after 30 degrees, so I am very grateful for this ability!

Another good day, and about 260kms brought me to Leyburn. Here I briefly caught up with another TABE starter, who was riding south on his route. Carl Marooney was in the Pub watching the Rugby ( sorry cant remember who was playing). He had seen my Tracker moving down through the last town of Millmerran and messaged me. Again, great to catch up with a familiar face. I left Carl at the pub, and found a free camping park just out of town, Perfect!

The next day, once again 200km plus brought me through the biggest town in a while, Warwick for a brief stop and resupply. Eventually, I rolled into Killarney after some strong headwinds and was very happy to find a cafe open, as most things were shut as it was a holiday, Labour Day I think.

I enjoyed the next section, lots of river crossings through tree-lined hills on gravel roads. Soon I was moving to New South Wales, this felt great to go into the next state after the huge adventure that was Queensland.

 

Some fast sealed road sections brought me to the brilliantly named Woodenbong, this is where I met the most aggressive magpie of my journey, This guy did not like outsiders like me on a bicycle !! I dived into a cool Cafe that had been converted from a Service station, with old petrol pumps still there for decor and, filled my belly and stocked up to go.

After getting off the highway and onto the quiet gravel roads there is a very long climb. My idea to get to Nimbin that night went out the window, I did however get over the top and ended up sleeping on the floor of a Long drop toilet block building at a lookout point, Lights twinkled in the distance, must be Nimbin, about 30 km away I guessed !!

A long fast and chilly early morning descent brought me to Nimbin. Multiple Flat Whites and breakfast were so welcome and delicious and required. I had being to Nimbin with my wife Mary Jo 13 or 14 years previous . It looks like it has not changed that much !!!

I was feeling excited to get to Byron Bay. This section was pretty lumpy overall, mostly sealed back roads that were busier with traffic than I would have expected. Of course, I was now coming into a more populated area. Entering Byron Bay was another level of traffic and Humans, this took a bit of adjusting too after all my time, by myself on the dusty quiet roads and Trails of Queensland. It was early afternoon , normally way to early for me to stop riding , but I decided to rest, get a massage, a bed , shower and great food that Byron has to offer. About 100kms today, my shortest day of Terra Australis.

A beautiful day riding out of Byron Bay, refreshed and rejuvenated, my first stop would be The Bicycle Emporium in Ballina, My Salsa Fargo required a new rear Tyre and a full service.

About 35 km got me to Ballina, straight to the Bike shop. Overall probably took longer than I would have expected . The friendly owner /mechanic was also dealing with customers as well as working on my bike. Extra coffee and food were consumed.

Before leaving the Bicycle Emporium I treated myself to a shiny new pair of socks, these felt so good.

The bike felt great, I was off on the flat roads towards Iluka. Unfortunately, I was too late to catch the last ferry of the day for the short trip across to Yamba. A little bit annoying as I was keen to keep riding, especially after my good rest up in Byron Bay, 149km for the day. Ah well, more rest, early night.

Caught the 8.45 am ferry, and sped off from Yamba towards The Yuraygir National Park. A few hours in after some sandy sections, and then a couple of nice climbs, my day was about to change. I was speeding down one of the rough gravel road descents, I came into the dip and was about to ride up the other side. Putting force down on my pedals, an audible crunch sound came from the rear. Not good! it’s a sound I had heard before in the 2017 Tour Divide on Day One .

Looking down, my Rear derailleur was smashed and sucked up into the cassette and wheel, this was not good, looked more of a mess than last time. Time to BREATH !!

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I remained Calm and Focused  and took my time to remove the rear derailleur and put it away. Now it was time to make this a single speed to ride out of here. A scorpion passed very close as I sat on the ground tinkering with the chain. After a few unsuccessful attempts, with the chain becoming super tense after a few pedal strokes, I continued to look for the correct chain length and gear.

A couple of four-wheel drivers passed, one stopping and offering me a lift after seeing my predicament. I refused, thinking it was better to get to the sealed road and re-assess from there. After maybe 2 hours I had a gear that was working, it was not a gear to climb the hills, but I could pedal the flats and cruise the downhills. On getting to the sealed road, I decided to leave my GPS purple line and take a right, to go to Grafton to get this sorted. I was not confident that this gear would hold up on the race route to Coffs Harbour, I needed a new Derailleur. It must have been about 50 km to Grafton, I was not fast, but I was moving. A big storm was brewing, and 10km out of town I got slammed with Torrential rain, thunder and Lighting. I went straight to a campground and got a cabin , got food and dried out .. What a Day !!

The experience of my Tour Divide episode, where I had gone into angry, why me mode, as heaps of racers passed me as I struggled by the side of the track, had benefited me here. I remained composed and clear-headed and got moving again. Although I must say it was easier to do this in the warm afternoon sun in NSW, Australia than it was in 2017, in the freezing rain, muddy tracks about 110 km from the race start in Banff.

After checking out a couple of Bike shops in Grafton, with nobody keen to do the job I decided to go to Coffs Harbour further south. My Rear Derailleur is a DI2 set-up, it was pretty smashed up and twisted, also the cable before the plug was damaged. Realistically I did not expect it to be fixable, I just needed to get back moving by whatever means.

I got a lunchtime bus from Grafton to Coffs Harbour and went straight to Rainbow Cycles. Fantastic Bike Shop, Dan the owner and Glen the workshop manager got straight to work. The fastest option was to put on a mechanical Derailleur. For a Di2, I would have to wait a few days, and this was a Friday evening.

Glen pointed me to The Happy Frog Cafe down the street, an Amazing vegetarian cafe with so many options, here I contemplated my next move. Back at the Bike shop Glen had put a mechanical Rear Derailleur on my bike, I was back in the race. Thank you Dan and Glen for dropping everything and working late on a Friday evening to get me going.

It was about 6 in the evening, and I decided to ride up the highway towards Grafton, before cutting in to rejoin the course where I’d left it the previous day. I think I got back on course about midnight, and was back on gravel and in the bush . there was a fair bit of water and mud after the recent downpours. I felt good so pushed on through the night to arrive back in Coffs Harbour once again for breakfast . A visit again to the Happy Frog and a nice chat with some local roadies .

Checking out the tracking page on Trackleaders.com I saw Brendan Corbin and Ben Cadby were making their way towards the East Coast, having their adventures I’m sure. Unfortunately, Steve Watson and Matt Hart had to pull the pin way out west. Now there were only 3 Riders on the course.

An enjoyable day on the Bike, some sand at Valla beach and some good climbs in the Way Way Forest, plus a little navigation confusion coming out of Macksville got me to Hat Head. This was perfect timing as I was able to get a meal at the Bowling club just before they shut, set up camp under a tree and slept very well.

I left the coast and rode inland today, I Knew some hills were on the Horizon. Some Dot watchers popped out to see me, a lovely couple at the service station in Taree and Anthony, well after dark on the quiet roads towards Gloucester. Thank you guys, always nice to know people are watching my progress, as I do myself when I’m not the Dot …….

Got into Gloucester late and camped in the park in town which had water and power at the Barbecue area. Early rise and coffee and resupply at the friendly Bakery and off I rode in the crisp morning air. Numerous river crossings meant dry feet were not an option. This was a tough day , with some serious climbs and bike pushing in the Gloucester and Barrington Tops, as well as an awesome speedy descent on the Corker Track . Was happy with about 200 km today.

Today the 9th of October was one of the toughest of the race for me. I detoured a few km into Denman for breakfast and necessary supplies, then rode out into the dusty roads and rising temperatures. A couple of hours later I was riding into the Widden Valley, This is a beautiful place. This is the Valley of the Horse, where thousands of horses have been bred and raised over the last 150 years.

Some tough climbs after this and I was glad of the Water tank at Sandy camp, rest and refuel. More hills, unmaintained bush tracks and very interesting scenery, this is proper adventure stuff. I arrived at the Glen Alice settlement just at dark, found water and continued . On paper it was 70 odd km to Lithgow, I knew an obstacle stood between us and the name Baal Bone Gap, sounded ominous.

It was about 8 in the evening and was was getting close to the base of the climb, I had to open some farm gates to follow the course. From a house on the hill, Dogs started barking furiously, so much for stealth movement I was trying for past the Farm houses. I rode around and went through another gate, and then headlights from behind created a shadow in front. It was the Farmer. I told the farmer what I was doing, he seemed perplexed that I was heading into the abyss at this time . He explained it was steep and rough, then wished me well. He was right this night got very difficult, some of the sections were so rough and steep that pushing my bike was a huge effort. I was determined to get over Baal Bone Gap and camp or ride down to Lithgow. Eventually, I summited, I was etremlely exhausted now, I decided to push on thinking it must be all downhill to Lithgow, no, this was not the case, more hills to finish the legs off.

I arrived in Lithgow at about 3 am cold and damp, Mc Donalds 24 hour was my only option. Not an establishment I frequent at all , desperate times call for desperate measures! I asked the guy behind the counter, does he have anything vegetarian. His classic response was ” No, its McDonalds, Mate “. Fries, Banana bread and a Large soya Flat white did the job. I hung out here for a couple of hours, Called Mary Jo back in New Zealand, warmed up and recovered from the Epic day/night I’d just had. That was a massive push.

The rain had started as I left Lithgow towards Jenolan Caves, for the next 65km is got heavier and heavier. On reaching The busy Tourist spot, I was very wet and cold, so I decided to get a room, dry out and chill. A short day, but all good, considering my efforts yesterday.

I left the warmth of my room very early and headed out, it was chilly, with a heavy drizzle and fog. The super steep hill out of Jenolan Caves would awaken my Legs and Lungs. This was a tough morning, I wasn’t feeling it at all, it was still wet and cold. After 50km I pulled into the Mount Werong Campground and Old Hut. I rolled out my Mat and jumped into my sleeping bag, I had to get warm, it was about 9 am.

Not sure how long I spent here, but I did get warmer, as the day slowly brightened so did my spirits, onwards to Taralga for a feed at the friendly Tangled Vine cafe.

I rolled into Gundaroo between 9 and 10 pm, and planned to camp at the showgrounds but noticed they were all fenced off. I went to the pub and ordered a fizzy drink from the grumpy barman who seemed like he would prefer to be anywhere else but there . The locals were friendly though, I asked about the Showgrounds and was told there was a Music Festival in a couple of days. One lady said she would get a key and let me in. Perfect! I  Set up camp for a good night’s rest.

Canberra was next up. Race Designer Steve came out and rolled into town with me, we went straight to the coffee shop for Flat Whites and Food. Good mate Seb Dunne and local rider Todd also came for a chat. Great to catch up, Thanks Guys

My bike had a quick tune up and I got some warm gloves and a baselayer. I was noticing the cooler night time temperatures and the mountains were on the Horizon .

Todd rode out about 20 km with me, then I was on my own once more. Thoughts of getting to Cabramurra went out the window as this day just got tougher and tougher. I followed Pylon tracks through a thick forest, which was littered with very steep climbs. I had to walk up many of these. Was it my legs getting weary with cumulative Fatigue, my Gearing ratio of 11 speed 46/36t front rings or simply too steep to ride ????? Sometime close to midnight, iI rode off route a few km into Long Plains Hut, I was happy to be here with some shelter as it was now fairly cold. During the night I wondered why I was so cold and unable to sleep. My Sea to Summit sleeping mat had punctured. The cold air was penetrating me. A very groggy start meant it was a slow morning.

Breakfast and coffee were Heavenly at the Bistro in Cabramurra, in the Snowy Mountains, the highest town in Australia at an elevation of 1488 metres. Resupplied and prepared for more hills, an hour on a sealed road before turning off to the round Mountain Track and some remote riding. This was really nice scenery in here , some more steep climbs and rough trails . Steve had informed me of a Detour to Jindabyne, as the mountain road to Thredbo was not cleared of winter snow. I did miss the proposed detour track with my foggy brain, and rode around to Jindabyne with maybe extra unnecessary km in the legs.

Early morning bakery visit and then the sealed road climb up to Thredbo, resupply then onwards to the Cascade Trail. This is another awesome remote twisting trail that brings me into Victoria State, the end of the journey is near, but first, there are more crazy steep hills to contend with ….and lots of Brumbies, the wild horses who charge off powerfully once they see a smelly human cyclist in their domain.

 

Camped about 50km before Swifts Creek, and rode down the super fast chilly descent. Morning breakfast at the small friendly Bakery. I love the places I pass through on this adventure, off the beaten track, seeing an Australia that a lot of people do not get to experience. I’m Truly Grateful and privileged.

A steady easy gradient climb through Forestry roads took me away from Swifts Creek, the next service town, Dargo, about 80kms away. This was a hot day, like many before, and the hills were steep, also like many before. I was pretty shattered on getting to Dargo that afternoon. Another great stop at the cafe/shop, friendly locals and I was revived, and ready to tackle the last real climb or two of this Terra Australis Bike Epic ….Off the sealed road and onto the Freestone Creek road, this was beautiful and flowy as the sun descended for another day. I got to Stratford close to midnight and camped in a children’s Play area in the town park. My last night on the course!

 

I rode out of Stratford early and hit the Bakery not long after 6 am with Goodies to propel me to Wilson’s Prom. Generally Flat riding today, with a bit of sand, to remind me of Cape York a month ago. The Warm Sun was out and I was enjoying my last day of the Terra Australis Bike Epic.

Mary Jo, my amazing super supportive wife was flying into Melbourne today, hiring a car and driving to Wilsons Prom to meet me. It was shaping up that we would arrive there simultaneously, pretty cool as she had only booked the flights 3 or 4 days before.

I was looking forward to the finish but also I knew I would miss this simple life of cycling each day , finding food, water and and place to camp and absorbing this hugely vast fascinating country .

I rolled over the last few bumps on the sealed road from Foster, and there it was, the sign I was looking for. I had made it, I was at the end, I had won the race. Mary Jo had not yet arrived, I sat and contemplated in silence. I felt exhilarated, exhausted and proud to have ridden this truly epic route in 31 Days.

Within 5 minutes Mary Jo arrived, amazing timing considering our different journeys. A beautiful reunion, Finish photos and an abundance of food that she picked up along the way. Thank you

Bicycles are not allowed to be ridden in the National Park, so as I had always planned on getting to the southerly most point, this would involve a hike of about 20km from the Campground Area. We headed back to Foster and got a motel , planning on an early start in the morning .

We decided to walk via the beaches and come back a different way along Tracks and roads. The hike was really beautiful , and getting to the wild and rugged southern point was a nice completion. A couple of hours before getting back to our car, the heavens opened up with some heavy downpours, luckily we had our rain gear. We were both pretty tired by the end, a 40 km round trip. That evening my legs, especially my calves were seizing up, a combination of different muscles being used and the cold towards the end. Now the Terra Australis journey was complete!!!

A Lovely few days of recovering and hanging out with Mary Jo in Melbourne were perfect before returning home to Vibrant Living Retreat, in Hanmer Springs, New Zealand.For weeks and weeks and even now memories of this ride pop into my head, amazing memories imprinted forever, a truly unforgettable experience. This Blog only gives a brief insight into the whole race, as each day brought a multitude of Happenings that I simply do not have time or space to share right now. I thank you for taking the time to read this, I hope to have captured the essence of my journey and maybe inspired a few to create their adventures.

If you are contemplating doing something like this, Thoughts that do not go away. You have got to do it. Just do it! If you are new to this type of Bikepacking , start with smaller events/ adventures, test your gear and be comfortable out there being fully self-sufficient. Do not underestimate something like Terra Australis, it is huge, if you do not like Sand, Corrugations or Hike a bike sections, consider an event that stays on sealed roads.

These Ultra-endurance races that I love to do are a real test. Physical strength is of course important, but even more so is the mental aspect of these events. It’s how you can handle the challenges, weather, mechanicals, and injuries that will make or break you . Often in events like this 40 to 50 % do not finish.

I have learned so much over the last few years of doing this type of riding, Physically, Mentally, Emotionally and Spiritually. It’s the whole package. I use Mantras/affirmations every day, I work with my body, with my mind and with my bike, With Nature and my surroundings, Not against it. I run Energy through my body, keep it moving, keep it fresh. One of my favourite Mantras is ” This too shall Pass “. This can be relevant to anything you encounter, like an injury, the weather etc. Because nothing is permanent. Use this and Believe it and you will realise it to be true!!!

Another very important thing for me is Gratitude. Every day at Vibrant Living Retreat, before dinner we give Gratitude. I bring this with me on the Bike. Out there by myself, I have plenty of time for Gratitude. Being Grateful for the opportunity to do this, my Body, my bike, the chance to ride through a country ….. everything that I can think of that plays an integral part to the whole . Speaking of Gratitude ………

Also very important is looking after my body . I would stretch a lot, when I had a chance, even as I rode. I also relaxed in recovery mode, with my legs elevated up a tree or a wall, even for 10/15 minutes. Getting a massage and self-massage is also great for general wellbeing.

It has to be FUN, have fun out there, enjoy it, enjoy the training enjoy being out in the great outdoors, in nature. I am competitive, and I love the competitive edge of racing, but it all has to be fun and not too serious !! Or else what’s the point, if you are out there flogging your body, being stressed and struggling? D don’t get me wrong there are very tough moments, hours days …. Getting through these times with a positive mindset will make you stronger.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I’d like to Thank Steve Watson for putting Terra Australis Bike Epic together, hours and hours spent devising the route and bringing a race of this magnitude to the Southern Hemisphere. There were a few hiccups and a few disgruntled racers, but it’s not going to be perfect for the inaugural running of a race that covers over 6,000 km of mixed terrain. I would not hesitate to do it again if it’s meant to be!

I’d like to Thank my Wife Mary Jo, for unwavering support always. For her social media musings that keeps people informed about my adventure and for coming to meet me at the end , it was very special . Also like to Thank my main sponsor Vibrant Living Retreat, our Beautiful business in Hanmer Springs, NZ. For allowing me to follow my dreams and passions. Our Vibrant Living Team, all the amazing people who have come and stayed, helped and became part of our culture.

I’m Truly Grateful for my Family back in Ireland, Friends and all the Dot watchers, including the ones who came out to meet me on the course . I feel the support all the time !!

I’m Grateful to  HUB Cycles in Christchurch, Andrew, Pete and Team do an amazing job making sure my bikes are running as they need to be.

I am so grateful for my Body, My Breath and my Mind for being there with me all the way .

Of course, i m so Grateful for My amazing Salsa Fargo Ti Bicycle, this bike is so comfy and versatile, I love it

I am grateful for every single piece of gear that was with me on the journey, almost everything got utilised, except for a spare inner tube that I did not need. No flats in over 6,000 km. Incredible !! My bag set up , mixed between Apidura and Revelate Designs, Ground Effect and Tineli Gear , all the gadgets etc… Garmin Etrex 35t and my super amazing K LITE Bikepacker Ultra Front light .

 

 

Until the next Adventure …….

 

 

Out of my 31 days cycling I slept in a bed for 6 Nights, at Gilberton Station, Muttaburra Exchange Hotel, Injune Campground Cabin, Byron Bay Campground Cabin, Jenolan Caves Hotel and Jindabyne. This, in theory, meant I had 6 showers. That’s not many in 31 days of Hot, Cold, Dust, Mud, Sweat and all the rest. I was mainly by myself so it was just me and my Aussie outback Aroma!!!

The rest of the nights I set up my Z Packs Hexamid solo Tent, or just rolled out my Sleeping mat and slept under the stars or some type of shelter. I stealth camped at some schools, sports grounds etc but mostly it was out in the Bush. Often it worked out that I got to a town just in time to re-stock, and I always enjoyed riding as the sun went down, stopping to camp around Midnight somewhere in the great Outback.

A Truly Unforgettable Experience