Member for Newcastle, Tim Owen AM MP, will be going along for the ride, literally, when the third annual Newcastle to Dungog Charity Bike Ride starts on Saturday, October 27.

After flagging away the lead riders from Nobbys Beach at 6.30am, the State parliamentarian will hop on a bicycle and take part in the first section of the picturesque 90km course.

“It has been quite a few years since I last hopped on a pushbike but I’m looking forward to supporting and taking part in the event,” Mr Owen said.

“I like the idea of a healthy activity like cycling helping to fund medical research through HMRI, so I take my hat off to all the riders who are competing.”

Last year’s event raised $14,000 for HMRI, which is helping to fund cancer research.

Organisers are expecting more than 300 riders to form an impressive peloton, ranging from elite racers through to the “tourers”, “cruisers” and so-called “charleys”.

The route takes in four local government areas – Newcastle, Port Stephens, Great Lakes and Dungog – as it wends its way to the foothills of Barrington.

From Nobbys it follows the Industrial Highway and Maitland Road, crosses Hexham Bridge then follows the Pacific Highway to The Bucketts Way. From there it’s on to Limeburners Creek Road and Clarencetown before finishing with a gradual climb to Dungog.

“It’s a unique event in the Hunter, being slightly longer than the Loop The Lake and following a course through beautiful countryside that riders don’t often see,” event spokesman Ian Bourne said.

Rotary members will serve as marshals and also greet the riders upon crossing the finish line at Dungog’s Jubilee Park. There is ample parking and barbecue facilities for family and friends who wish to drive up.

Entry fee is $55 plus optional donation to HMRI via online registration. Each donation over $25 will go in the draw to win a new EMC2 flat-bar roadbike.

The major event sponsor is Valley Motor Auctions, along with Omega Cycleworks, Strategic Group, Audi, RailCorp, SV Partners and Workforce International.

More details at www.newcastledungogbikeride.org.au

HMRI is a partnership between the University of Newcastle, Hunter New England Health and the community.