Loop the Lake and Fernleigh Track
On the weekend of 12-13 March 2011 three of our members headed off to the Newcastle area for the annual cycling event called Loop the Lake. Organised by the local Rotary Clubs, Loop the Lake raises money each year for the John Hunter Children's Hospital and is always well attended by cyclists from many areas of New South Wales and even interstate.
This year was no exception with over 2000 riders taking part. The weather was sunny and warm and the event well organised, with excellent support throughout the route. A special sweeping of the route of gravel and glass the night before the event was greatly appreciated. The two main rest breaks along the way for muffins and tea and later for fruit were most welcome. There was plenty of excitement at the end of the ride with free handouts, certificates and event T-shirts, sausage sandwiches for lunch and live music. And of course a free swim in the local Speers Point swimming pool to end a most enjoyable day.
We took the opportunity of making this into an extended cycling weekend for members of Windsor Cyclists. On the Saturday we explored the newly opened Fernleigh Track from Belmont to the almost centre of Newcastle. This 16km shared pathway follows a disused coal haul rail line between Adamstown and Belmont. The track is surprisingly scenic, traversing the Glenrock State Conservation Area, Awabakal Nature Reserve and the Belmont Wetlands State Park. On our return journey we had a very pleasant swim at Redcliffe Beach, only a couple of kilometres off the track.
