RIDER SAFETY 

PREPLAN YOUR RIDE

Cycling in Victoria's High Country takes you through vast landscapes and pristine environments.

Safety is essential especially when cycling in remote areas. Always pre-plan your route before setting out (including checking weather), ride with equipment appropriate for your adventure, choose routes that match your experience level and the season, cycle with a group and ride within your limits.

 

RIDER SAFETY CHECKLIST

  • Check route distance and difficulty before setting out, ensuring your capability exceeds the requirements.
  • Check weather conditions and Vic Emergency App before setting out.
  • Obey road/trail signage and closures.
  • Always carry adequate water and snacks for the length of your adventure.
  • Wear sensible and layered clothing to cater for changeable weather conditions.
  • Understand and prepare for remote conditions with limited services and mobile coverage.
  • Carry maintenance equipment suitable for your route, such as spare tubes and a pump, and know how to use them.
  • Be alert and respectful of wildlife and their habitat.
  • Be aware of livestock and farming equipment in agricultural areas, giving way where possible.
  • Ride with a group, especially when cycling routes that travel through remote areas.
  • Always tell someone responsible where you are going and when you're expected to return.
  • We recommend using a digital wayfinding/mapping device, plus downloading the Emergency Plus and Victoria's High Country Apps.

 

7 PEAKS CHALLENGE ALPINE SAFETY

  • The 7 Peaks Challenge season runs from October to April ONLY. The 7 Peaks Challenge routes takes riders into Australia's alpine areas which are inaccessible to cyclists outside of this timeframe due to snow, ice and potential high winds.
  • Alpine weather changes very quickly, even in summer, with snowfall possible year-round. Always check weather conditions and the Vic Emergency App before setting out.
  • Check road conditions and any potential closures or hazards on the VicRoads website before setting out.
  • Always follow all road cycling rules at all times. Check out VicRoads website for more details.

 

DOWNLOAD THE VISITOR APP 

MURRAY TO MOUNTAINS RAIL TRAIL

RULES OF USE

Respect the rights of other trail users at all times by:

  • Warning when approaching from behind or passing
  • Wheels to give way to walkers
  • Pull off the trail pavement when stopping
  • Keeping to the left when necessary
  • Do not trespass on adjoining land
  • Showing courtesy to others

Respect the rights of landholders by:

  • Giving way to stock at crossing points
  • Not trespassing on adjoining land

Help protect the environment by:

  • Not disturbing flora and fauna
  • Taking your rubbish with you
  • No camping or lighting of fires within the reserve

Animals:

  • Horse riding is not permitted on the trail pavement
  • Have your dog under control at all times
  • Report any wandering stock within the reserves

Keep safe by:

  • Wearing an approved helmet while riding
  • Taking care at road crossings
  • Slip, slop, slap, seek, slide
  • Not climbing bridges
  • Observing all signs and local regulations
  • Ride with other riders
  • Plan for the unexpected or fatigue of someone in your group
  • Inform someone where you are going and when you will return

Carry:

  • Ample water and food for your journey, factoring in the weather conditions
  • Bicycle repair kit and tyre pump
  • Mobile phone - make sure it's charged before you set off
  • Appropriate clothing for change in climatic conditions

Regulations:

  • Crown Land Reserves (Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail Reserve) Regulations 2003 apply to this reserve.
  • Motorcycles and unauthorised motor vehicles are not permitted on the trail at any time. Penalty $500 / 5 penalty units
  • The trail is open from sunrise to sunset and is used at your own risk.

Emergency Information

Emergency markers are located along the Rail Trail. 

In an emergency, dial 000 and quote the Emergency Marker code where you are located. Alternatively, quote the What3Words featured on the nearest sign.

Stay informed - Radio station for regional/local information and emergency broadcasts: ABC FM 106.5

Fire danger Information

Be fire ready, stay safe. Dial 000 for fire, police and ambulance. Be aware of the Fire Danger rating as you are in a high risk area. If the day is declared a day of Code Red fire danger, you should reconsider your plans to use the Rail Trail.

For updated information on Fire Danger ratings in Victoria or general safety, call 1800 240 667 or visit the CFA website: https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/