This Senior Festival month, many seniors in the Dandenongs are embracing exciting challenges, and one of the standout stories comes from Malcolm Basell of The Patch.
At 76, Mr Basell is gearing up for his sixth Great Vic Bike Ride this November, to show cycling is an adventure for people of all ages – his passion for the sport is a true inspiration to the community.
The Great Vic Bike Ride, which runs from Monday 24 to Friday 28 November, has always been a highlight for The Patch resident.
“I come on the ride each year with my niece from South Australia,” he said.
“It’s a wonderful way of catching up.”
The duo’s annual tradition of riding together has become a special bond, one Mr Basell cherishes deeply.
“We meet new people every year, and often catch up with those who ride every year.”
Mr Basell’s first experience with the ride was back in the early days, when his son introduced him to the event.
“My son got me into it, and he thought I wouldn’t be able to manage on a regular bike, so he brought me an e-bike,” Mr Basell said.
“It was such a great experience that I kept coming back.”
Although some may assume the ride might be too challenging for someone in their 70s, Mr Basell said it’s easier than many think.
“I don’t do a lot of training, but the ride is actually a lot easier than most people realise,” he said.
“I’m 76, and I still enjoy it every year, you just get on your bike a couple of times a week, maybe 20 kilometres or so, and you’ll be fine,” he said.
This year’s Great Vic Bike Ride is introducing a new five-day format, which Mr Basell is particularly looking forward to.
“I like the new five-day format where we don’t move campsites so often,” he said.
“It makes it a lot easier, and for those who may not be as fit, there are shorter distances on some days.”
The new format sees riders stay in just two locations for longer periods, with “loop” rides on two days, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
This change has made the event more accessible, especially for older participants like Mr Basell, who enjoys the chance to take his time without the pressure of constantly moving to new sites each day.
“It’s great because we can ride out and back, so it’s not as strenuous,” he said.
Aside from the exercise, Mr Basell values the social aspect of the event, over the years, he has made countless friendships with fellow riders.
“You meet so many interesting people along the way,” he said.
“We all eat together in a big mess tent, so you’re always talking to someone new.”
The ride also offers ample opportunities for fun off the bike, with events like quiz nights and live music keeping riders entertained after a long day on the road, but it’s the sense of camaraderie and community that stands out the most.
“It’s a very social event, you get to meet people from all walks of life, and it’s a wonderful way to stay connected,” he said.
As he gets ready to hit the road this November, Mr Basell is looking forward to another year of adventure, with one of the biggest highlights being his time spent with family.
His niece, Amanda Prosser, who joined him for the ride a few years ago, has become an avid cyclist and will be riding alongside him again this year.
“It’s a great way to bond,” he said.
“We’ve been doing it together for a while now, and it’s something I always look forward to.”
The Great Vic Bike Ride has always been about more than just cycling, it’s about being part of a larger community and staying active.
“It’s great exercise, but it’s not too strenuous,” Mr Basell said.
“You don’t have to rush, you can go at your own pace, and the support is incredible.”
With the event’s long history of welcoming riders of all ages, the new five-day format ensures that even more participants, like Mr Basell can enjoy the journey, making it a ride that’s truly accessible to everyone.
The TAC Great Vic Bike Ride will take place along the stunning Great Ocean Road, with stops at Mortlake, Koroit, Port Campbell, and Camperdown.
