“There wouldn’t be many people in Inverell that don’t know someone that’s been on the bloody thing,” organiser of the Copeton Mountain Bike Enduro, Mick Hoynes, said.

“A couple of my boys have been on it,” he added.

 Hoynes believes the helicopter is imperative to the region and was pleased to combine his love of riding with fundraising.

“I think we’ve raised somewhere in the vicinity of $13,000 for the helicopters so far,” he said of the past five years.  

Riders from Inverell, Armidale, Tamworth, Gunnedah and Moree have already signed up and Hoynes hopes many amateurs will give it a try. 

“The roads aren’t extremely difficult, any off-rider bike will get through this course,” he said.

“Come along and have a look, bring your bike and come and do it.”  

There is a wide variety of events to choose from in the Copeton Enduro, including six hour, three hour and junior races. Hoynes encourages any riders that are keen but unsure if they can complete the course on their own to form a team of three or four with their mates. 

“It’s a great mountain bike course out there,” Hoynes said. The Copeton track is well-used by the local club. Hoynes promised that on the day, the course will be well marked so those new to the track won’t get lost. 

“It’s really about participating and raising some dollars for the helicopter.”

Entry forms can be downloaded from the Westpac helicopter or Inverell Mountain Bike websites, or call Mick on 0427 150 790.