Andrew Nikolic (Bass, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to highlight the Launceston Cycling Festival which comprises three major events. The National Junior Track Series unleashes our stars of the future. It started the careers of Macey Stewart, James Robinson and the current world junior track champion, Lauren Perry. Sally's Ride is Tasmania's

largest community participation ride, with participants choosing one of five courses through the beautiful Tamar Valley ranging from 25 to 140 kilometres. The Stan Siejka Cycling Classic is a criterium-style event around the Launceston CBD. It includes categories for juniors, veterans, men and women.

Last year's race attracted a crowd of more than 5,000, nourished by fine Tasmanian food and drink. Caleb Ewan won the 2013 Cycling Classic and has gone on to become a member of the ORICA GreenEDGE cycling team. The 2013 event was covered by SBS, with Tour de France host Mike Tomalaris stating:

I genuinely believe this is one of the best, if not the best, crit in Australia.

We look forward to prominent TV coverage for the 2014 Launceston Cycling Festival from 5 to7 December. I invite cycle-lovers from around the country to join me in Sally's Ride on Sunday, 7 December. You may also continue to stay and enjoy criterium racing at its very best and visit all of the delights that Northern Tasmania has to offer.