Rider Event Guide
Ride Guide
Event Management Solutions Australia would like to welcome you to this beautiful region, fringed by reef and enveloped by rainforest.
Reef to Reef is Australia’s oldest point to point MTB race and we are very pleased to have you here, celebrating the 31st anniversary of this circuit. You are in for a real treat.
During your visit, plan your rest and recovery, soaking up the sun on the Great Barrier Reef with an amazing tour boat operator, or take a stroll through the world’s oldest rainforest.
Welcome to the Ride Guide for 2024! Below is all the information that you need to know for the event and its logistics.
Message from the Minister for Tourism and Sport, The Hon. Michael Healy MP
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Reef to Reef & Triple R which highlights the personality and uniqueness of Far North Queensland.
Reef to Reef & Triple R are supported by the Queensland Government through the Tourism and Events Queensland’s Queensland Destination Events Program, which strives to highlight the vital link between the wonderful events we host in our great state and the diverse destinations in which they take place.
Events such as Reef to Reef & Triple R foster community pride, impart local culture with all who visit and make meaningful contributions to the local economy.
Beyond Reef to Reef & Triple R there is so much to see, do and experience in Far North Queensland I encourage all visitors from far and wide to soak in all the delights of Far North Queensland and make the most of all the experiences unique to this special part of Queensland.
Congratulations to the organisers plus all those involved in working tirelessly to stage such a great event and for being part of the Queensland Destination Events Program.
Event Schedule
* Please note that this is a draft schedule and is subject to change at any time *
DAY 1 - PROLOGUE
| Thursday 25 July | Stage 1 | Venue |
| 9:00am - 11:30am | Rider Registration (Reef to Reef and Triple-R) | Smithfield MTB Park |
| 9:00am | Rider Practice - please collect your race plate before practice | Smithfield MTB Park |
| 10:00am - 5:00pm | Bike Mechanic Services | Smithfield MTB Park |
| 11:45pm | Race Briefing | Smithfield MTB Park |
| 12.00pm-5:00pm | Macalister Brewing Company | Macalister Brewing Company - Smithfield |
| 12.00pm | Stage 1 Race start (category order online now) | Smithfield MTB Park |
| 3:00pm | Racing ends | Hotseat Smithfield MTB Park |
| 3:00pm-5:00pm | Live Music | Smithfield MTB Park |
| 3:30pm | Stage 1 Daily Awards | Smithfield MTB Park |
| 5:30pm | Reef to Reef Social Hub | Crystalbrook Boardwalk Social Ground Floor, 85 Esplanade Cairns |
DAY 3 - STAGE 2
| Saturday 27 July | Stage 3 | Venue |
| 7.30am - 1:00pm | Bike Mechanic Services | Atherton Forest MTB Park, Atherton |
| 8:30am | Race Briefing | Atherton Forest MTB Park, Atherton |
| 9:00am | Stage 3 Race Start | Atherton Forest MTB Park, Atherton |
| 1:00pm | First finisher | Atherton Forest MTB Park, Atherton |
| 3:00pm | Racing Ends | Atherton Forest MTB Park, Atherton |
| 3:30pm | Stage 3 Daily Awards and Reef to Reef Social Hub | Billycart Brewing Co, Atherton |
DAY 2 - STAGE 1
| Friday 26 July | Stage 2 | Venue |
| 8.00am - 1:00pm | Bike Mechanic Services | Smithfield MTB Park |
| 8:00am | Practice/Rider Sign ON | Smithfield MTB Park |
| 8:45am | Race Briefing | Smithfield MTB Park |
| 9:00am | Stage 2 Race start | Smithfield MTB Park |
| 10:30am | First finisher | Smithfield MTB Park |
| 1:00pm | Racing ends | Smithfield MTB Park |
| 1:30pm | Stage 2 Daily Awards | Smithfield MTB Park |
| 5:30pm | Reef to Reef Social Hub | Crystalbrook Boardwalk Social Ground Floor, 85 Esplanade Cairns |
DAY 4 - STAGE 3 AND TRIPLE R
| Sunday 28 July | Stage 4 | Venue |
| 6:00am | Reef to Reef shuttle bus service Port Douglas to Mt Molloy | Port Douglas Surf Club, Port Douglas |
| 7:00am | Triple R shuttle bus service Port Douglas to Mt Molloy | Port Douglas Surf Club, Port Douglas |
| 7:00am - 11:00am | Bike Mechanic Services (Start line only) | Vains Park, Mt Molloy |
| 7:30am - 8:30am | Triple-R Long Course 48km Rider Registration | Vains Park, Mt Molloy |
| 7:30am - 9:30am | Triple-R Classic 35km Rider Registration | Vains Park, Mt Molloy |
| 7:45am | Race Briefing -Reef to Reef Riders | Vains Park, Mt Molloy |
| 8:00am | Stage 4 Reef to Reef Race Start | Vains Park, Mt Molloy |
| 8:45am | Race Briefing - Triple-R Long Course 48km Riders | Vains Park, Mt Molloy |
| 9:00am | Triple-R Long Course 48km Race Start | Vains Park, Mt Molloy |
| 9:45am | Race Briefing- Triple-R Classic 35km Riders | Vains Park, Mt Molloy |
| 10:00am | Triple-R Classic 35km Race Start | Vains Park, Mt Molloy |
| 2:00pm | Awards for Reef to Reef and Triple-R | Port Douglas Surf Club, Port Douglas |
RACE KIT
HANDLEBAR RACE PLATE
This is your race identification. All riders need to ensure their Race Plate is secured (using cable ties provided within your pack) prior to each Stage Race Start. Your timing chip is attached to the back of your handlebar race plate.
RIDER WRISTBAND
Your ID wristband must be worn at all times as this will be your entry to ‘rider only restricted areas. Your ID wristband will be secured to your wrist prior to leaving Registration and will be required to stay on until the end of Stage 4.
JERSEY RACE NUMBER
This is your secondary race identification. All riders need to ensure their Race Number is secured to the back of their jersey prior to each Stage Race Start.
RIDER GIFT
Each rider will receive a Reef to Reef cap and t-shirt.
PRE-RACE INFO
REGISTRATION
Will be located at Smithfield MTB Park, Smithfield on Thursday 25th July 9am - 11:30am. All kits will need to be collected during registration opening hours.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO BRING
• AusCycling annual membership card (Digital or hard copy)
OPTION 1 - RACE MEMBERSHIP:
You must hold a valid AusCycling race membership for the current season. You will need to enter your membership number at time of registration.
Note: Lifestyle Membership does not cover you for this event. You can upgrade your membership to include race coverage by contacting AusCycling. Proof of the upgrade must be presented at Registration Onsite.
OPTION 2 - RACE LICENCE:
If you don't hold a valid AusCycling race membership you will be required to purchase an AusCycling race licence when you enter (AUD$10.00 inclusive of all fees and taxes).
ONSITE PROCESS
RACE MEMBERSHIP:
• All riders must present their AusCycling annual race membership card. Either a physical card or photo on their phone (i.e. in the App).
• Alternatively, you can log into your AusCycling account via the AusCycling website.
• If you do not present a valid membership, you will be required to purchase a competition licence.
RACE LICENCE:
If you purchased a race licence with your entry you are not required to present any proof at Registration.
Not sure if you purchased a Competition Licence? Check your email confirmation/receipt or contact
info@emsaustralia.net.au
For more information about what the membership and competition licences include please view the AusCycling Website.
WHO CAN COLLECT?
Only the person registered can pick up their Race Kit at Registration. Please note that it is illegal for someone else to compete under your name or for you to compete under someone else’s name. This will result in suspension from future Reef to Reef events.
RACE VILLAGE INFO
BOTTLE DROP
LOCATION: Event Information located at each Stage Start Line.
Stage 2 & 3 = 9am (All bottles must be dropped prior to 8:30am).
Stage 4 = 8am (All bottles must be dropped prior to 7:30am).
If you wish to use the Bottle Drop service, please be mindful of the above timings and your bottle will then be taken to the water point each day.
Handy tip, have a couple of spare bottles so each stage morning you’re not rushed to fill your bottles up if you manage to beat your bottle back from the stage prior.
Please ensure you clearly label your bottle with your name and race number.
BOTTLE COLLECT: Bottles will be delivered back to Event Information after the last rider has arrived back at the finish line and the course has been swept. Riders can either wait to collect or collect the following stage morning. Remember that if you are at the front of the field it is likely your bottle will not beat you back!
ALWAYS BE PREPARED: It is recommended all riders commence each stage with at least one full water bottle and enough food to sustain their energy levels. Water Points will be at approximately half way at Stages 2 and 3 (near the finish village as they are 2 lap stages); however it is advised that riders carry any dietary specific products as well as “get out of jail” supplies.
SOCIAL HUB
At the end of each day’s racing you’ll find most riders and the crew kicking back for a great meal, a frothy top and all the day’s banter you could ask for.
Prologue and Stage 2: Macalister Brewing Company will be serving the frothies at the finish venue from 12-5pm. Then off to Crystalbrook Flynn's Boardwalk Social for some tucker and to reminisce the day, from 5:30pm.
Stage 3: Will be catching up over a FREE FROTHIE and the Daily Awards Ceremony at the legendary Billycart Brewing Co, Atherton, from 3:30pm.
Stage 4: We find ourselves indulging in some well earned liquid gold and epic tales of riders experiences over the stages at the Port Douglas Surf Club, Port Douglas, from 2pm.
MECHANICAL SUPPORT
Discovery Cycles will be onsite to assist with bike mechanical support. Please note this will be a free service (except for parts needed):
• Spare tube
• Tyre levers
• Multi tool
• Pump and/or CO2
BIKE WASH
LOCATION: Each Stage Finish Line
COST: Free
FINISH LINE AMENITIES
After you have finished each stage, feel free to take advantage of the post finish facilities available. Located within the Post Finish area will be:
• The Post Finish Hydration Area
• Medical support
• Massage
• Food
• Coffee
• Beer
• Toilets
• Seating
RACE DAY INFO
RACE BRIEFING
LOCATION: Start Line – Each Stage
All riders are required to attend the compulsory pre-race briefing at each Stage. These will be delivered 15 minutes prior to that stage’s start. The briefing will inform you on what to expect on course, road rules, dismount zones and rider etiquette. Penalties will be given to riders who do not obey the race rules.
STARTLINE PROCEDURE
PROLOGUE: All athletes will race through the Smithfield MTB Park trying to record the quickest time.
E-bikes will kick things off first (every day); followed by an ascending speed order from eldest, to youngest Solo riders and ending with the elites; and finally finishing with ascending age order of Pairs, then elite Pairs.
Riders will be let off at 1min intervals, with larger gaps between categories. Refer to Start List, which will be published on our website.
* Anyone who misses a start time will be penalised.
* Pairs will start together.
We will be retaining the fastest rider of the day (excluding E-bikes) in the HOT SEAT at the finish venue. Hang around, have a beer and cheer on finishers to see who remains in the HOT SEAT champ by the conclusion of the day.
Prologue results will be used to seed wave starts for Day 2. Day 2 results will seed Day 3, and so on.
MEDICAL
A first aid provider will be engaged to provide first aid at all events operated by Reef to Reef.
First aid will be positioned in a variety of locations. First Aid responders will be mobile along the course and can be radio'd by all staff or volunteers throughout the event also. Riders are responsible for any costs incurred as a result of a medical incident, this includes but is not limited to ambulance transfers, hospital stays, specialist treatment; it is therefore strongly advised that all athletes hold adequate personal insurance. Australian residents are recommended to hold valid private health insurance (inclusive of ambulance cover) whilst international riders are strongly advised to have adequate travel or personal insurance that will provide coverage for participation in a Reef to Reef event. Riders are responsible for understanding the terms and conditions of insurances held.
ACCIDENTS ON COURSE
We will also have mobile medics on course. If you require medical assistance on course or come across a rider who needs this, please report to the next Marshal Point stating the riders plate number, name and condition and we will be there as soon as possible. If a serious injury occurs, ask the second rider on the scene to direct oncoming riders and send the third rider to the nearest communication point for assistance. Remember, if a rider is seriously injured do not move them, even if they are blocking the entire trail.
If you cannot leave the rider, please call an ambulance if it is life threatening or call 1300 Medics on 0421 003 720.
Keep in mind that time considerations will always be given to those who stop and assist injured riders. The bottom line is at the end of the day, (as awesome as it is) Reef to Reef is just a mountain bike race, you are here to enjoy it and we’re all here to get you over that Finish Line safely!
CONTINGENCY PLAN
If/when a contingency plan needs to be implemented you will be notified by the Race Director Email, Text or by the Commentator.
FINISH LINE PHOTO
Sportograf is the official event photographer.
How to Get your Best Photos:
• Ensure your race plate is visible on the FRONT of your handlebars.
• Keep your race number visible on the BACK of your body.
• Watch out for our photographers and SMILE into our cameras.
• Smile and celebrate when you cross the finish line! Don’t worry about touching your watch, the timing company will ensure an accurate record of your achievement.
• Smile and have your photo taken with your finisher medal and towel at the photo wall available within recovery.
Your personal race photos will be available within 24-48hrs after the race at www.sportograf.com.
DIRECTIONAL SIGNAGE ON COURSE
Each Stage is clearly marked with signage and markings on trees and posts. If you have reached an intersection that is not marked, you have gone the wrong way. Turn back until you find a course marker.
EVENT RULES
Please ensure that you familiarise yourself with the Reef to Reef Event Rules.
• The race rules may be updated and amended at the discretion of the Race Director up to the start of the race.
• Failure to comply with any of the rules may result in a penalty, which could include a rider’s disqualification in certain circumstances. The various categories of penalties are set out in the Event Rules.
The interpretation of any rule by the Race Director will be final and binding on all race participants.
SHUTTLE BUS SERVICES
For stages 1, 2, & 3 you’ll be starting and finishing in the same place which makes it super easy to drive to and from each stage.
For stage 4, the start and finish lines are at different locations. So, we are running a shuttle bus and bike transfer service* to get you to the start line at Vains Park, Mount Molloy. The shuttle bus will depart nice and early on Sunday morning from the finish line. This way, as soon as you finish your ride you can sit back and relax - let the last few days sink in and soak up the atmosphere at the Port Douglas Surf Lifesaving Club.
If your unable to get onto the morning shuttle riders can opt for the afternoon service this will leave Port Douglas, departing from the Port Douglas Surf Lifesaving Club at 3:00pm on Sunday 28th July and head back to the start line at Vains Park Recreation Reserve, Mount Molloy.
Stage 4 Shuttle Bus & Bike Transfer Service - $35.00 per rider.
REEF TO REEF SOLO/PAIRS
The shuttle bus and bike transfer will leave Port Douglas, departing from corner of Garrick Street and Mowbray Street at 6:00am on Sunday 28 July, and head to the start line at Vains Park, Mount Molloy. This will get you to the start line around 7:00am. Please arrive by 5.40am to allow time to load your bike on the truck and take your seat on the bus. Please note this service is for riders only.
TRIPLE-R SHORT & LONG COURSE RIDERS
The shuttle bus and bike transfer will leave Port Douglas, departing from corner of Garrick Street and Mowbray Street at 7:00am on Sunday 28 July, and head to the start line at Vains Park, Mount Molloy. This will get you to the start line around 8:00am. Please arrive by 6:40am to allow time to load your bike on the truck and take your seat on the bus. Please note this service is for riders only.
Bookings are compulsory as there’s limited capacity for these awesome services! Please book via your Race Roster account - https://raceroster.com/store/83149/listing
Once the event begins on Thursday 25 July you will no longer be able to purchase this online. You will need to head to the Information Tent during the Prologue and Stages 2 and 3 to see availability and book this service with our friendly team.
*Whilst all care is taken by the bike transportation provider, no responsibility will be taken.
POST RACE INFO
RESULTS
Results can be viewed on our website after the conclusion of the final stage - RESULTS.
LOST & FOUND PROPERTY
Any lost or found property that is handed in will be taken to the Event Information. You can email to relocate your lost items - info@emsaustralia.com.au or call 0447 176 314.
Alternatively, please check in with staff at information the following morning. Please note that no responsibility or liability is taken by the Race Organisers for lost property.
AWARDS
DAILY AWARDS
A daily awards ceremony will be held at the end of each stage at each Finish Venue. This will include the awarding of the 'leaders jersey' in each SOLO and PAIRS age category.
LEADERS JERSEYS
From the yellow to the purple to the green, the leader jerseys are a statement of superiority. Whether worn for just one stage or awarded for an overall victory, the mountain bikers who carry these on their shoulders are champion riders and deserving of great respect. Reef to Reef is proud to bestow the leader from each of the riding categories an exceptional leader’s jersey for 2024. Each daily General Classification winner in every ride category will be presented their exclusive Leader Jersey at the daily awards presentation.
PRIZE MONEY
In addition, at the conclusion of the event on Sunday afternoon in Port Douglas, there will be a presentation to the overall winners of each category. Prize money will also be awarded to overall 1st, 2nd and 3rd Male and Female riders in the SOLO event, plus 1st, 2nd and 3rd Male, Female and Mixed in the PAIRS event, regardless of age group (excluding e-bike categories).
| R2R PAIRS | |||
| Place | Male | Female | Mixed |
| 1st | $1,500 | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| 2nd | $1,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| 3rd | $500 | $500 | $500 |
| R2R SOLO | ||
| Place | Male | Female |
| 1st | $750 | $750 |
| 2nd | $500 | $500 |
| 3rd | $250 | $250 |
ADDITIONAL INFO
SUSTAINABILITY
As part of the event sustainability practice you’ll see innovative and new ways we’re trying to reduce waste and leave a cleaner footprint.
We’re asking all crew, riders and spectators to jump on board and commit to these 3 easy ways you can help!
1. Please help us in our mission by bringing your own Keep Cup for your morning brew.
2. Don’t forget your refillable water bottles each day.
3. Please recycle in line with the bins provided that will separate cardboard, cans & bottles and soft plastic.
VOLUNTEERS
The 2024 Reef to Reef requires the support of over 65 Volunteers in order to deliver the event.
Our team of Volunteers at the event will contribute a combined total of around 2,000 Hours to assist, support and motivate you from the start to the finish of your Reef to Reef journey.
We encourage you to say thank you to the Volunteers whenever possible! Without the Volunteers, we simply would not be able to run any epic events.
GET SOCIAL
Tag Reef to Reef or Triple-R on socials, to show your biggest fans what you've been up to over the course of the event.
https://www.facebook.com/reeftoreef
www.instagram.com/reeftoreef
#ReeftoReefMTB #GoodTimesRolling
