As anyone who knows and loves sport will tell you, women's cycling is on the up and up.
And nowhere is it more in the ascendancy than at the High Country Women's Cycling Festival, which returns to the Bright district on March 20-22.
The festival aims to inspire, encourage and support more women to ride, and to experience the beauty of the High Country by bike.
At the same time it provides valuable support for Ovarian Cancer Australia.
Festival spokeswoman Clare Holdsworth said the program is even bigger this year.
"In 2020 we want to provide an opportunity for cyclists who are new to climbing and not up to riding the full ascent and descent of Mount Buffalo," Ms Holdsworth said.
"Working with our cycle safety partner RoadSafe North East, we have introduced a Ride to Rollasons, as part of the Buffalo Women's Ride (March 21).
"Experienced ride leaders will escort the riders to a halfway turnaround point, providing tips and building confidence to ensure a safe, enjoyable and rewarding ride."
Backed by Regional Roads Victoria, the festival has a strong emphasis on safety.
In the lead-up to the event, organisers will campaign with RoadSafe North East to spread the important "Pass Cyclists Safely" message, which will highlight reduced speed limits and traffic management protocols.
Festival organiser Michelle Armstrong that despite the growth in women's cycling, there was a strong gender imbalance when it came to alpine riding.
"Many female riders consider hills and mountains beyond their capability," Ms Armstrong said.
"We will share our knowledge, build confidence, push boundaries and help women discover new ride destinations with new friends.
As well as the two main rides, the weekend includes a Lycra lunch party with Fashions on the Field, bike mechanics, riding skills clinics, Rail Trail produce rides, yoga, bike fashion pop-ups and a celebration dinner.
Festival passes for the Mount Buffalo and Rollasons (beginner mountain cyclists only) rides cost $180, respectively, and include Cycling Australia membership, which covers ride insurance.
Registration is now open. Go to www.hcwcf.com.au. The site details everything you need to know, including the full festival program.
NB: At the time of writing, parts of regional Victoria were in a continuing bushfire emergency. Check details with organisers ahead of the event.
- Read more: Mother Nature shares her Bright canvas
- Read more: From alps to shore on the Great Alpine Road
