The Walcha Motorcycle Rally is set to roar back into town from 14 to 15 November, bringing together riders, spectators, and the local community for a weekend that has quickly become a highlight on the regional events calendar.
First held in 2021, the rally was born from a grassroots effort to showcase Walcha and create a destination event that celebrates motorcycles in all their forms. In just a few short years, it has grown to attract visitors from across New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria.
Rebecca Whillock, Events and Communications Officer for Walcha Council, said the rally was designed to appeal to both adventure riders and road riders.
“The program starts with a street procession, which everyone can join,” Ms Whillock said. “Across Friday and Saturday there are long and short adventure rides, where locals take groups out on bush trails, as well as highway road rides. This year there’s also a fundraising ride being organised by a local group alongside the main rally program.”
Tickets are offered as day or weekend passes, giving access to all programmed events. “A pass gets you entry into everything, whether it’s the show and shine, the long adventure ride, or the Q&A sessions with special guests,” Ms Whillock said.
One of the major drawcards is the lineup of well-known riders and personalities, including speed record holder Ben Felten, who will join other guests for Q&As and demonstrations. Trade exhibitors, food stalls, and motorcycle skills displays will also be spread across the rally site.
The rally is more than just a showcase of machines. It includes a demolition derby run by professional derby drivers as part of their official calendar, which closes the Saturday night program in spectacular fashion.
Families are also well catered for, with kids’ Enduro X events created by the strong local motocross community.
“It’s a short obstacle track with logs and challenges, designed to teach kids safe riding skills. They finish with an exhibition race that’s always popular,” Ms Whillock said.
Adding a rural flavour, the farmers’ challenge has riders juggling tasks like balancing a petrol can on their bike, opening gates, and tackling quirky obstacles. Postie bike races, a crowd favourite, will return to the show ring with a light-hearted Grand Prix featuring the classic red Australia Post bikes.
Last year, the rally drew close to 1,800 through the gates, including more than 700 registered riders. Organisers expect another strong turnout this November as the event continues to cement Walcha’s reputation as a motorcycle hub.
“The rally is about creating something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned rider, a local family, or just someone who loves the spectacle,” Ms Whillock said.
For details and registration, visit walchamotorcyclerally.com.au.
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