If you’ve ever dreamed of roaring across red dirt trails, winding through ancient rainforest, and standing at the northernmost tip of Australia with the sun on your face and mud on your boots, chances are Cape York Motorcycle Adventures (CYMCA) has crossed your path – or at least your social feed.

Based in Far North Queensland, CYMCA is a trailblazing, family-owned business delivering some of the most unforgettable off-road motorcycle tours in the country. Since 1990, they’ve led riders from around the globe across Cape York’s rugged beauty – from coastal tracks and river crossings to thick bushland and remote beaches.

“We create EPIC MOTORCYCLE ADVENTURES that deliver lifelong memories,” says Renae Kunda, CYMCA’s Director. And when she says epic, she means it – from 3-day weekend rides to the iconic 6-day Bucket List Adventure that’ll take you all the way to Pajinka, the very tip of Cape York.

Where the wheels began to turn

CYMCA started with a simple idea: combine a love for motorcycles with a deep respect for the land, and share it with the world.

The business was founded by Renae’s husband, Roy Kunda, who had a burning passion for bikes and the bush.

“Roy envisioned sharing the beauty of Cape York in a way that was as exhilarating as it was immersive,” Renae explains. “A lightbulb moment came when he realised the true potential of blending off-road motorcycle adventures with personalised hospitality in an untouched, remote environment.”

That vision didn’t just evolve into a business, it sparked a whole new adventure tourism niche.

“Roy literally wrote the book,” Renae says proudly, referring to The King of the Cape: A Guide’s Book to Your Ultimate Motorcycling Adventure, Roy’s bible for off-road exploration in Cape York.

Image supplied

CYMCA  blazing a new trail

Back in the early ’90s, the idea of guided motorcycle tours in Cape York was completely unheard of. “Adventure tourism in Far North Queensland was limited, with no operators offering motorcycle tours through Cape York’s pristine and challenging terrain,” says Renae.

CYMCA changed all that, opening up the region to riders looking for more than just a dirt track – those who wanted a full-blown, immersive outback experience. With expert guides, top-quality bikes, and local stories that bring every stop to life, CYMCA created a space where thrill-seeking meets storytelling. Renae says riders walked away with more than a sore backside – they left with a deeper connection to Country.

Challenges? Try cyclones and isolation

Running any business in regional Australia takes grit. Running one that’s entirely reliant on weather, remote terrain, and finely tuned machinery? That takes next-level tenacity.

“We deal with logistical challenges like limited access to resources, unpredictable weather, and transportation difficulties,” Renae says. And when disaster strikes, it’s all hands on deck. “Cyclone Jasper submerged much of our inventory and property in December 2023, causing a significant loss.”

But thanks to solid planning, team resilience, and a whole lot of determination, they kept the wheels turning – literally.

And Renae says they haven’t just bounced back. They’ve grown stronger.

It’s the people who make a business. Image supplied

What makes it all worth it

Despite the mud, the setbacks, and the cyclone rebuilds, there’s one thing that keeps the CYMCA crew going: the people. “Witnessing riders rediscover themselves under a blanket of 5 million stars is incredibly rewarding,” says Renae. “There’s a freedom in regional living that mirrors the spirit of our tours.”

It’s this spirit that CYMCA champions in every ride. Whether they’re leading a nervous beginner through their first bush track or guiding a seasoned rider to the Tip for the fifth time.

“We love the connections we build, not just with our customers, but also with the local community,” she says.

Creating ripples in the local economy

CYMCA’s impact reaches beyond the riders that participate in their adrenaline-fuelled tours. The business is a huge part of the Far North Queensland economy and community, creating jobs, forming partnerships, and fostering homegrown talent.

They collaborate with fellow local legends like Cape York Camping Punsand Bay, Roko Island fishing tours, Lion’s Den Hotel, and Marsh Butcheries. They even help train students from AFL Cape York House, a leadership academy for Indigenous young men and women.

“Partnering with local businesses and attractions allows us to offer guests unique add-ons that benefit everyone,” Renae explains. “It’s about lifting each other up.”

There’s never a dull moment on a CYMCA tour. Image supplied

CYMCA proud legacy

After more than three decades in the saddle, CYMCA is still evolving. Guides are now certified through Tour Guides Australia, and the business is exploring new routes, premium experiences, and AI-driven tools like Ryder, which enhances guest engagement and booking processes.

“We’re expanding our offerings with more customised and premium experiences – but that’s a bit of a secret for now,” Renae teases.

And the recognition just keeps rolling in. “Being named a finalist in the 2025 Regional Heroes competition is one of our proudest moments,” she says. “It affirmed our 35+ years of hard work, passion, and perseverance.”

Regional roots, global reach

Despite their remote location, CYMCA is a master at staying connected. With an office in Cairns and a savvy digital presence, they use social media, newsletters, and a slick booking platform to keep the momentum and the customers coming back all year round.

“We build anticipation with regular updates leading up to tours and follow up personally after each trip,” Renae explains. “Guests receive curated cloud photo albums and emails. It keeps them feeling part of the CYMCA family.”

CMYCA set up camp under the stars. Image supplied.

Trailblazers wisdom

For anyone considering launching a business in regional Australia, Renae has a few suggestions to help build a business that lasts the distance.

“Start with passion, and build on a strong foundation of local knowledge and relationships. Be prepared to adapt to challenges. Always engage with your community. And focus on delivering value and authenticity – that’s what really resonates.”

So what’s next for Cape York Motorcycle Adventures??

If Renae and Roy have their way, then bigger, bolder, and even more immersive experiences are on the horizon.

“We’re always thinking about how we can go further – literally and figuratively,” Renae says.

Keen to ride? You can find out more at www.capeyorkmotorcycles.com.au, follow their off-road adventures on Instagram and Facebook @CapeYorkMotorcycleAdventures.

Cast your vote!

Voting is now on for the Business Builders 2025 Regional Heroes competition in partnership with Vodafone Business. Now’s the time to show your support. Just head to the voting page, click on your favourite Regional Hero and hit the SUBMIT button at the bottom of the page.

Voting closes 11:59 PM Monday, 21 July.

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