By Pauline Armour

Ballina was transformed into a sea of colour and chrome on Sunday as the Babes on Bikes rally rolled into town — drawing more than 2,000 visitors and securing not one, but two world records.

Event founder and organiser Deborah Geerts confirmed the rally set a brand-new world record for the most mothers and daughters riding together, with 32 pairs counted.

The ride also maintained its previous record for the most women riding continuously, with 1,002 participants taking part in the convoy.

In total, 625 women registered for this year’s event, well short of the current UK record of 1,597 for the largest female meet –  but Deborah says the real success is about much more than numbers.

“I had one rider tell me she lost her partner in a motorcycle accident two years ago and got back on her bike for this, riding in his memory,” she said. 

“Another had been stuck at home with severe social anxiety for two years, and this event brought her out. That’s the real value of what we’ve created, irrespective of records.”

Riders travelled from across Australia, with some making the journey from New Zealand and even Canada. 

Local accommodation was fully booked, and Ballina’s cafes, shops, and service providers reported a bumper weekend.

“It was great for the Ballina economy, with all the food and services sourced locally,” Geerts said.

While she has announced her retirement from organising rallies, many participants and locals are calling for the event to become an annual Ballina fixture once again.

“I’m still waiting for someone to put their hand up and take it on,” Geerts said with a laugh.

 “But for me, I’m definitely retired.”

The rally ended with celebrations at Cherry Street Sports Club, where revellers shared stories.

Local rider Heather Fletcher described it as “an unforgettable day, full of fun and camaraderie.” 

Volunteers from Ballina Marine Rescue were equally buoyant, after working tirelessly to feed and guide participants before they set off. 

Captain Geoff Hutchinson confirmed the rally raised a substantial sum towards the campaign for a new rescue vessel.