Scotts Creek cyclist Dalen Court has just returned from the gruelling Tour De Timor.

While he finished 17th of 288 riders, he said his focus throughout the five-day event was more on survival than winning.

The epic road race, held on mountain bikes, was aimed at promoting awareness of the tiny South-East Asian country.

Ten years after Australian troops arrived to safeguard its independence from Indonesian forces, the war-torn nation is still grappling with poverty and rebuilding vital infrastructure.

The Indonesians flattened East Timor when they left in 1999, destroying hospitals and schools, raping and pillaging, Mr Court said.

``It is still very much Third World,'' he said.

``The Timorese are happy enough and very friendly but a lot are wondering where their next meals are coming from.''

Mr Court was invited to compete in the race by good mate Steve Draper, who owns a cycle shop in Ocean Grove.

Tour organisers paid for competitors' flights, accommodation and food.

``The Princess of Jordan donated $100,000 to the event,'' Mr Court said.

``When we arrived in East Timor we were each given a swag and told that that was our accommodation. It was OK, it's what we expected.''

The team Mr Court rode with fitted their bikes with performance racing tyres but they proved to be no match for East Timor's crumbling roads.

``When it got rough, it really got rough. There were potholes the size of craters. I got five punctures and was still able to keep my top 20-spot,'' he said. Despite the challenges, Mr Court said he would be happy to compete again next year.

``We'll be back again. It's amazing. Just 45 minutes in the air from Darwin and you are there. It's important for Australia to continue to help and offer support.''