The riders and support crew set off from Macquarie Home Stay at 7am on Monday October 7 and headed to a lunch date at Armatree Hotel as their first major stop.

Chairman of the organising committee, Mathew Dickerson said the temperature reached 33 degrees during the first day.

"It was a warm day to start the tour and the riders had to contend with a manageable 12km/h headwind. A reasonably tough start to the gruelling 1,100km tour," he said.

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"The fundraising has just tipped over the $80,000 mark with donations still rolling in to the dedicated Web site at https://www.givenow.com.au/tourdeoroc

The morale of the riders will be given an incredible boost if the public turn up in numbers to support the riders as complete their journey."

Mr Dickerson, said the first morning of the event was both exciting and intimidating.

"Knowing the community is supportive and behind the riders all the way will give a huge psychological boost to the riders," he said.

"I welcome as many supporters along the route as possible.

The ride starts and ends in Dubbo.

The last day should be popular with participants as they will have the opportunity to ride alongside SBS Cycling Commentator, Mike Tomalaris.

This day will see riders start off in Warren and ride to Narromine and onto Dubbo to end up at Macquarie Home Stay.

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