Kenny and Phillip are the first recumbent trike riders to complete the Lavender Cycling Trail (LCT). They travelled north to south over six days, modifying the route slightly near Monarto to avoid the single track sections.
Camping in shelters with only sleeping bags and a groundsheet, they overnighted at Manoora Centenary Oval, a private home in Eudunda, Truro Oval, a private property near Springton and the Old Rockleigh Schoolhouse.
Here is Kenny’s story:
Day 1 – Clare to Manoora – 55 Km
On 28 March 2023 we headed out on an overcast morning from the Clare trail head, a steady climb in cool conditions. We were both on recumbent trikes: my travelling companion Phillip Pearce on a 24 gear Greenspeed pedal powered gut buster (GT20) and me taking the easy option on a Velotechnic e-powered machine (FXS). We were aiming at total self-sufficiency whilst on the trail. However this went out the window when the Skillogalee wine and coffee shop came into view!
Upon restart we were quickly reminded that life on the trail is not all beer and skittles. It started to rain steadily, the terrain became more difficult, we became bogged in red clay several times and after clearing that section became bogged again just before Mintaro due to road resurfacing.
Bogged in resurfacing gravel between Watervale and Mintaro
We arrived, tired and weary at the Manoora oval. Pat, from the Manoora Progress Association, met us and handed us the key to the footy changing rooms and showers with a smile. I was more than happy sleeping on the footy team massage table, while Phillip chose 2 rolls of carpet as his bed base.
Day 2 – Manoora to Eudunda – 56 Km
In the morning, after leaving a small donation, we did a quick tour of the town and headed out on the second leg to Eudunda.
It had rained slightly during the night so increased the challenge presented by Quinns and Webs Gaps. Both were slippy and we both lost traction several times. Phillip had no option to walk up both.
Tricky descent at Webbs Gap
Taking a lunch break at Inspiration Point
Scenic Road, aptly named because it runs along the ridge line, couldn’t be enjoyed because with a strong headwind and constant pot holes, we had no option but to keep our heads down and concentrate.
We arrived at our Eudunda accommodation very tired after an 8 hour slog against that pesky wind and the two climbs.
Day 3 – Eudunda to Truro – 38 Km
The following morning I was keen to be off. However, our host was so keen to show us the town and all it had to offer the visitor, that I railed against that inner urge to be on my way.
Recumbent bikes in front of the Eudunda Silo Art
I am so glad I took the opportunity to have a closer look at the town. It’s a fascinating spot and chatting to the locals I realised they are also very proud of their bit of paradise.
The trip from there to Dutton included some rough track surface. Lunch was a tin of baked beans (cold) and a cruskit. The weather was overcast and rain was definitely threatening so we pushed on to Truro to set up once again in the footy oval. Sadly no showers this time.
Shelter at the Truro Oval
If you would like to camp at Truro Oval, please contact Chris Fox of the Truro Progress Association on 0437 194 437
We compensated by having a good meal in the pub (Truro Hotel). Interestingly, mine host tried to sell us the establishment lock stock and barrel for a cool million. Damn, neither of us could rustle up the loose change. Ah well might as well continue our journey.
Day 4 – Truro to Springton – 65 Km
The following morning started with a slap up breakfast at Barossa Tea Room and Winery. Our day went downhill from there.
Road signs had been vandalised causing us to lose 2 hours. (Our GPS system had failed and we were now relying on paper maps with the Lavender Cycling Trail marked onto them.) Some tracks were all but impassable.
Recumbent rider Kenny displaying the Welsh flag as he rides towards Eden Valley
Our accomodation for that night was a private affair complete with Porterhouse steak and red wine close to Springton. 9 hours on the track.
Day 5 – Springton to Rockleigh – 40 Km
Vandalised road signs were a feature until Tungkillo. From there on however, both road and track signage was reliable. We made good time on reasonable surfaces to Rockleigh Old Schoolhouse.
Our host, Barbara, was concerned about us so came out to check on us whilst we were still pedalling. Imagine her surprise when she discovered that my trail partner was her cousin! We are in South Australia, aren’t we?
Kenny at the Old Rockleigh Schoolhouse Trail Head
Kenny heats his dinner on a Triangia in front of a welcome fire in the Old Schoolhouse
Day 6 – Rockleigh to Murray Bridge – 45 Km
A very restful night in the Rockleigh school house complete with open fire! After porridge for breakfast (heated on my Triangia Stove), we were ready for the final leg. This took us to the Murray Bridge trail head, where we were met by our loved ones. The easiest day of all, just 4 hours.
Recumbent riders Kenny (left) and Phillip (right) at their finish line at the Lavender Cycling Trail Head at Murray Bridge
A reflective cup of coffee in the cafe adjacent to the trail head and the triking armada was disbanded. The inevitable “would you do it again” question arose. In my case, at 90, the answer is yes but make it soon!
Thank you to Kenny Stephens for the story and Phillip Pearce for the photos.
For more information about riding the Lavender Cycling Trail (LCT) or camping options along the trail see the main website or the camping page.
To read a story about a couple who used their motorhome as a base for their ride along the LCT see Eight Days on the Lavender Trail (M2C).
