I am increasing my training in anticipation of planned spring rides, while avoiding magpie attacks.

There are quite a few new cycling paths and bridges alongside some new roads built in inner Melbourne and they have been fun to ride.

This weekend we have the annual Around the Bay in a Day ride this will be my 20th!

I’m traveling over to Tasmania at the beginning of November from Geelong to Devonport aboard the Spirit of Tasmania ferry for a couple of weeks of solo cycle touring. I’ve previously cycled extensively around most of Tasmania, so this will be a bit of a highlights tour. The first option is to cycle southwest through Sheffield to Cradle Mountain, then ride northwest to the Nut. From Stanley, cycle down to Arthur River and into the Tarkine for the famous red boat cruise along the Arthur River. An alternative option is to cycle with the prevailing westerly wind at my back and make my way along the East Coast, via Bridport, to St Helens, then Coles Bay down to Triabunna and take the ferry across to Maria Island for a couple of days of hiking and cycling around the Fossil Cliffs.

The weather can be very unpredictable in Tasmania so I have to have a few alternative routes planned. Always spoilt for choice in Tasmania.