Excitement builds for first SA motorbike crop trials tour

AN annual motorbike crop trials tour that has become a big hit in Western Australia is headed across the border to South Australia for the first time this season.

The ADAMA Australia 2-Wheel Trial Tour has been a marked fixture on the calendar for many of the industry’s motorbike enthusiasts, mixing adventure trails with tours of numerous research sites and different farming systems, as well as good fellowship. The tours have consistently promoted rural mental health and this has been applauded by several organisations.

Set to be staged from October 6-11, the first SA motorbike crop trials tour will traverse various agricultural production areas in the State before an optional run into the spectacular and iconic Flinders Ranges. 

ADAMA Australia Market Development Manager Bevan Addison, who coordinates the tours and enjoys hitting the trails on his own ‘steed’, said the event would highlight the diversity of SA’s agriculture industry. 

“We will base ourselves centrally at Freeling, which will enable us to swing south of Adelaide, into the Mid North and also over to some of the key production areas of northern Yorke Peninsula,” Bevan said.

“There is a diverse range of soil types, cropping systems and challenges for growers across these regions that will provide some insights and thought-provoking options for tour participants to take back to their own businesses. 

“It will highlight the different rainfall zones, soils and farm production systems throughout the regions.”

He said the tour would explore some of ADAMA Australia’s local weed and disease control research, as well as trials being coordinated by other industry groups and some of the innovations being undertaken by progressive growers in the different areas.

“We will be showcasing a range of sites that offer a very broad interest to participants, especially considering we are likely to attract riders from across the country now that we are holding a more centralised tour.”

Bevan said the close proximity of “bike riders’ heaven” in the Flinders Ranges meant it could not be ignored, so the optional component was added to the tour to allow riders to head north into the rugged and dry ranges and pastoral areas.

The fully catered riding and camping tour, complete with support vehicles, has continued to attract upwards of 40 motorbike riders in WA and there is genuine excitement around its South Australian debut this season. 

“Many WA riders are looking to turn it into a serious break before harvest commences, making their way across the Nullarbor by various means,” Bevan said.

“While WA has been the focus of these tours thus far, over the years we have had several groups of interstate riders visit and loved the concept and the experience. 

“The success of the tours has significantly centred around the great camaraderie they develop and the ability for like-minded people to come together and share information and ideas.”

He said each tour had delivered a different perspective, and the opportunity for a more diverse, national representation this year should make for an even better event.

Riders interested in joining the SA tour this season have been urged to register for the event as soon as possible, as tour numbers will once again be limited. A swag or tent, towel and toiletries are all that’s required to hit the trails.