This is not a bad idea Walrus. Personally I find it super hard to motivate myself to go and drive somewhere just to ride my bike by myself. If I couldn't ride straight from home then I'd hardly ever ride EXCEPT for the case of where I am meeting up with other riders somewhere for an organised (though usually informally so) ride. Suddenly driving there if necessary is not an issue. I'm not sure why this is the case, but for me it certainly is the case.CKinnard wrote: Murwillumbah has an active cycling club. Am sure you could do group rides and increase your network through that.
Ask around (local cafes or coffee shops for example) of what days/times they have groups of riders through. Or just ask local riders that you see on your travels about cycling groups in the area. These are usually just informal groups that will welcome new riders. I'm pretty sure you'll find a group based in either Byron or Murwillumbah that meets up regularly for informal group rides like this. These guys will usually also have a good knowledge of the best local routes that are safe to ride and fun as well.
If you have to take a short drive down to Byron or up to Murwillumbah for a group ride a couple of times a week I guarantee that you won't find it a problem and will get motivated.
Then get a gravel grinder or use your MTB to explore local trails.