Michelle Williams’ first taste of the west was on a bike, raising funds for Macquarie Home Stay as part of the Tour de OROC.  

Hailing from Blaxland in the Blue Mountains, Michelle is no stranger to long distances on a bike, but never quite so flat. 

“I cycle a lot, and trained hard for this event, because I knew it was going to be different to anything I’ve done before.” 

“Because it’s flatter and you’re on the pedals all the time, there’s no reprieve, no coast down a hill. I find that physically harder on the body in some ways,” Michelle said.  

 Despite it being her first time participating in the Tour de OROC, she’s been watching from the sidelines with interest for some years now. 

“I work for Nepean Clinical School, which is a part of Sydney University like Dubbo Clinical School…so I have that connection to people who are close to the hospital.” 

Michelle Williams (right) with fellow rider Trudy Griffiths. (Supplied)

“I seek out adventures on my bike…but because this was 200 kilometres on the bike every day in the past, I thought it was too much for me.” 

With a route change in 2024 that included more manageable distances, Michelle decided it was time to get involved.  

“I found out more about the homestay and understand the importance of the facility and why they’re raising the money.” 

When it comes to fundraising, Michelle has put her baking skills to good use, hosting bake sales at her work. 

For Michelle, it’s her first time back in the west since she was a baby.  

“It’s been quite exciting to see it at a slower pace. I saw my first emu in the wild, that was pretty amazing.” 

“A real highlight has been meeting new people, especially like-minded people who want to ride their bike everywhere…we’re a certain breed.” 

“Listening to the speakers, and riding with the two Olympians Brad McGee and Sara Carrigan has been amazing.” 

“I’ve ridden with a couple of other Olympians in other events because they tend to give back a lot…they’ve both been beautiful people, really welcoming and happy to chat.” 

“It’s been really fun. We’re just hoping for winds from behind again tomorrow.”