April 30, 2025
If you noticed a lot more pushbikes around the region over the Anzac Day long weekend, there’s a simple answer … their riders were all enjoying a “Weekend At Wondai”.
The three-day event was organised by the South Burnett Rail Trail Users Association (SBRTUA) in conjunction with Bicycle Queensland (BQ).
The riders’ entry fee also covered camping at the Wondai Sportsground and meals, including breakfasts, lunches and dinners provided by volunteers, local businesses and the Wondai Men’s Shed.
Many of the 166 visitors began arriving at the sportsground on Thursday to set up camp and begin exploring the South Burnett.
Although rain cancelled some casual rides on Thursday evening, the main rides on Friday, Saturday and Sunday went ahead.
The riders could choose to explore both long (65km to Kingaroy and back along the rail trail) or shorter routes, on bitumen or gravel.
They also had the opportunity to visit local attractions, including The Ration Shed at Cherbourg, 55 Million Years Ago Museum at Murgon and Memerambi Springs garden centre.
Many of the visitors also chose to enjoy the Anzac Day races at Wondai.
All the rides were accompanied by medics, volunteers and safety cars.
SBRTUA secretary Jason Wyeth said the weekend had been “brilliant”.
“For our first attempt, I don’t think it could have gone any better really,” he said.
“We’ve had nothing but terrific responses from our riders, lots of positive feedback.
“Our volunteers also worked brilliantly together.”
Jason said the rides had showcased many of the views and attractions around the South Burnett.
The group would now meet to discuss its plans, but he believed it should become a biennial event (ie. every two years) to look after the volunteers who were also involved in many other events.
BQ CEO Alton Twine said the SBRTUA had done an incredible job “building this event into something really special”.
“It was inspiring to see out BQ team on the ground, working side by side with the local community to deliver such a memorable experience for everyone who came along,” he said.
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