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It might have been a first, but anyone who participated, organised or just went along and watched the inaugural River and Ranges Winery Ride will certainly reckon there will be many more to come.

Sunday’s event, three bike rides originating out of Mitchelton Winery, can only be described as a success. More than 500 riders - and just as many others - took the opportunity to mix it with some of Australia’s finest cyclists in the Orica GreenEDGE team.

The riders took part in either 60km or 150km rides, going through Seymour, Highlands and Avenel as well as showcasing the stunning scenery and wineries our region has to offer.

Children got to accompany Simon Clarke, recently crowned King of the Mountains in the Tour of Spain, on a 6km ride around Mitchelton, while there was plenty of entertainment, a shuttle bus to Tahbilk and Fowles wineries and much more for the hundreds in attendance.

And after the cycling was over, GreenEDGE team members mingled with the crowds, signing autographs, posing for pictures or simply chatting about life in one of the most gruelling of sports.

Of course there was the bike education trailer which was purchased with the proceeds of the charity ride. The first of its kind in the country, it will be a huge asset to primary school children helping them stay safe on our roads.

It is easy to see the event becoming a showpiece one for our region, given the backing of Mitchelton’s Gerry Ryan and the outstanding band of fundraisers, led by Sissy Hoskin and Chrissy Beresford, who did so much to make the first one a success.