Body of mountain biker found in the You Yangs Regional Park
A MOUNTAIN bike ride through the popular You Yangs Regional Park near Geelong has ended in tragedy, with the discovery of a man’s body early this morning.
The 55-year-old cyclist was found dead at 4.15am following an extensive search and rescue operation involving air and ground crew.
The man from Geelong West was reported missing at 11pm last night when he didn’t return home from the ride after leaving that morning.
Authorities are not treating the death as suspicious.
Police discovered the man’s Holden utility in the Stockyard carpark, about 25km north of Geelong.
Authorities used a spare key to open the car. The experienced rider’s packed lunch hadn’t been touched.
The man did not belong to the local Geelong Mountain Bike or the Geelong Cycling Club. The You Yangs MTB Inc club offered no comment when approached by the Herald Sun.
The regional park is a known mountain bike destination with categorised tracks for novice to experienced riders.
Parks Victoria area chief ranger Stuart Lardner in response to the tragedy today said it was important for cyclists to think about safety.
“You Yangs rangers are strongly encouraging riders to let family and friends know where you are going and when you are expected to return, let others know which tracks you are planning to visit, check weather forecasts, and ride within your limits,” Mr Lardner said.
A report will be prepared for the Coroner.