A SHUTTLE bus offering guided tours of Mount Gambier’s hot spots will be in operation for the thousands of bike riders pedalling into the city over the weekend.
Starting today from Robe, The Great Victorian Bike Ride will make its third pit stop on its 10-day tour in the Blue Lake city on Sunday.
Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin said she would be travelling to Millicent on Saturday night to welcome the visitors to the region.
“The large influx of visitors is expected to have a substantial impact on the local economy,” Ms Martin said.
“While they are here, they will require food and other incidental items during their stay.
“I would expect the hospitality venues to be very busy and are already preparing to make sure they have adequate supplies.”
Ms Martin said benefits would flow to service and sporting clubs which cater for the riders.
“They money all trickles down to benefit the whole economy,” she said.
Tourism Mount Gambier voluntary chair Ben Deering said the visitor services team worked hard to ensure as many businesses are open and aware the riders will be in town on Sunday.
“I think many would be surprised at how many businesses are open to help support our visitors in exploring the town,” Mr Deering said.
“The riders are somewhat in a fully enclosed moving village, but we will be one of the biggest stops on the tour for riders and their support teams to explore.
Mr Deering said the one night stay should be “a great taste-test” for people.
“One night is not long enough,” he said.
“There should be a good percentage of people that put Mount Gambier on their list to come and spend some more time on holidays.”
Ms Martin said 66pc of riders say they would return to a town they had visited in the past 12 months.
With many natural attractions in the region, Ms Martin said City Council would also be offering the riders discounted guided tours through the Guides of Mount Gambier.
