What is the MS Gong Ride?
The MS Gong Ride is an annual fundraising event for MS Plus, where 7,000 passionate supporters ride from Sydney to Wollongong and raise funds to support Aussies living with multiple sclerosis. The 2026 event will take place on Sunday November 1st, 2026.
MS Plus is the go-to provider of information, advice and support for people affected by multiple sclerosis. We’re a combined entity of the ACT, NSW, TAS and VIC with over 70 years' insight into how to live well with progressive neurological conditions.
Riders can choose from two distance options: an 80KM ride starting at Tempe Recreation Reserve in Tempe, and a 53KM ride starting at Preston Park in Engadine.
People living with MS receive free entry, please email events@msplus.org.au or call 1300 733 690 before registering.
Can I change my start/wave time?
The number of riders in each Start Wave is capped to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride for all participants. Subject to availability, we can move you into a different Start Wave, please email events@msplus.org.au and the team will do their best to help.
Can I take my e-bike on public transport?
Yes, participants are able to travel with e-bikes* on Sydney Trains & NSW TrainLink intercity services to get to and from MS Gong Ride on Sunday 1 November.
*This excludes converted e-bikes (regular pedal bikes that have been fitted with batteries and motors) which are banned on Trains and Metro services effective 1 November 2025.
For more information, please see this Transport NSW article.
What happens if it rains?
The MS Gong Ride will go ahead - rain, hail or shine. The only exception is if in consultation agencies and emergency services conditions are deemed unsafe. Riders will be notified via email and SMS in the early morning of November 1 in the unlikely event the ride is cancelled.
What if I can no longer take part?
If you are no longer able to take part in the event, please let us know by contacting our Support Engagement Team on 1300 733 690.
As per our Event Terms and Conditions, entries are not refundable nor transferable if you change your mind or are not longer able to participate in the event. Exceptions will only be made under extenuating circumstances and will require the express permission of the MS Plus Events Team.
How old do I have to be to participate?
Riders must be 12 years of age or older on the day of the event to participate.
Riders between the ages of 12 and 17 are the responsibility of their guardian and must remain with them for the duration of the ride.
Can I enter on the day?
On the day entries are subject to availability, we recommend signing up early to avoid missing out.
If there is availability, QR Codes to register are at each start site – Tempe Recreation Reserve and Preston Park, Engadine – be sure to arrive with enough time to sign up online and collect your Event Bib.
All riders must be wearing their Event Bib.
Are there stops along the course?
A number of rest sites will be set up along the course for you to take a break, use the toilets and/or refill your water bottle.
Official Rest Sites:
- Loftus Oval
- Waterfall Public School
- Red Cedar
- Bald Hill
- Scarborough
- Nicholson Park
- Fairy Meadow
We recommend only stopping at our designated rest sites to ensure a safe, enjoyable ride.
Is the event timed?
Not officially, the timing chips on your Event Bib are for safety management purposes only. No times will be released to riders under any circumstances.
The MS Gong Ride is not a race.
What happens if I miss my start time?
The start lines will operate under a rolling start, if you arrive after your official start time but before the Last Rider then just get in line with the next group to be waved through – ensuring you are wearing your Event Bib!
If you commence the ride after the Sweep Bus (aka SAG Wagon) and Last Rider have departed the start site your ride will not be considered an official ride in the MS Gong Ride and will not be supported by the MS Gong Ride Team of staff, volunteers, bike mechanics and first aid officers.
Unless you ride ahead of the Sweep Bus, you will also find that rest sites are closed, course signage has been removed, and volunteer course marshals are no longer in position.
We ask that if you do start the ride late, and are travelling behind the last rider and sweep bus, that you please remove your event bib from your bike.
We recommend arriving at the start site at least 30 minutes prior to your selected start time, to commence your ride on time.
How do I get to the start line?
We encourage participants to use public transport where possible to get to their start site, and on their return trip after the ride.
No dedicated parking is available at the start sites. Please check parking restrictions carefully if you choose to drive to the start site.
IKEA Tempe Car Park is the dedicated and only Drop Off Zone for 80km participants. Please note participants are not permitted to park here all day.
Can beginner riders participate?
The MS Gong Ride is a beautiful ride through some of Australia’s most iconic scenery, that said some sections have high elevation and tight turns – especially though the Royal National Park. There are plenty of rest sites to ensure most riding abilities are able to take part, however we recommend that you do some training for your ride, especially if you haven't ridden this distance before. How much will depend on your level of fitness and riding experience.
In conjuction with Australian Olympic Gold Medallist and Australian Olympic Coach, Brad McGee, we have developed a 6 Week Training Program to help you prepare for the MS Gong Ride.
Where can I leave my belongings?
A Bag Drop (aka Cloak Room) service will be available at both start sites for $5 or online by credit card.
Attach the tear-off tag at the bottom of your Event Bib to your bag before handing it over to our Bag Drop Volunteers.
All items 'cloaked' at the start lines will be delivered the Finish Village Bag Drop Marquee.
What food and beverage options will be available?
Coffee vans will be on site for your start at Tempe and Engadine. Water stations to top up your water bottle will also be available at each rest site.
A complimentary morning tea will be provided by our volunteers at Waterfall Public School rest site.
Food and beverage vendors will be at the Finish Village in Wollongong, along with a public bar.
What if I cannot finish the ride?
If you are unable to complete the ride, contact our event operations using the number on the reverse of your Event Bib, and wait patiently in a safe location on the side of the road for our Sweep Bus (aka SAG Wagon) to collect you. The Sweep Bus will take you to the next Rest Site or closest train station.
If you require assistance on the day, call the bike mechanic phone number on the reverse of your Event Bib, and await assistance in a safe location on the side of the road. Our bike mechanics will be patrolling the course and will carry some equipment to help get you back on the road. However, we recommend getting your bike serviced in the lead up to the ride, and carrying some basic repair tools and parts, i.e. patch kit, with you on the day.
What if I am injured or require medical attention
Your safety is our number one priority. A considerable amount of planning with authorities and emergency services has been undertaken in the lead up to the event. At the event we have a large contingency of Police, St John Ambulance and NSW Ambulance personnel in attendance.
First aid personnel will be available at the starts, rest sites, finish village and along the course. If you require medical support, call the first aid number on the reverse of your Event Bib.
How do I get home from the event?
Sydney Trains have scheduled Special Event Train Services to get participants home from the MS Gong Ride.
You will need a Special Event Train Ticket, which can be purchased during registration or from shop.ms.org.au/gong (subject to availability).
Opal cards are not acceptable on Special Event Train Services.
Parking near the Finish Village is limited and time restrictions may apply.
See below for special event train information.
Can't find an answer?
Send your question to the MS Gong Ride team and we will be in touch.
