The men’s and women’s 2026 Surf Coast Classic will be raced on a revised route this week after a bushfire burning in the Otways placed parts of the original course under warnings, including areas told to prepare to evacuate.
Riders arriving in Victoria after the flight from South Australia’s Tour Down Under were met with confirmation that the expected parcours for the two one-day races would not be used. The original start town of Lorne was, at the time of the announcement, under a Watch and Act warning, while parts of the men’s intended route, including Barwon Heads and Forrest, were on Monday afternoon under advice to evacuate immediately.
Start moved to Torquay & contingency course activated
Organisers, working alongside local authorities and the CFA, confirmed early on Monday afternoon that both races will now start in Torquay instead of Lorne. The finish will also be in Torquay, with the contingency circuit heading inland towards Mount Moriac before looping back to the coast.
Race director Scott Sunderland said the decision was taken to prioritise safety while keeping the event on track.
“The safety of our riders, teams, staff, volunteers and spectators is always our absolute priority. With the evolving bushfire situation in the region, relocating the start to Torquay and activating our contingency course is the most responsible and proactive decision,” Sunderland said.
“I would like to thank the CFA, Police, local authorities and our event partners for their close cooperation and timely advice in making this decision. These changes allow us to continue delivering high-quality racing while managing the conditions in a safe and controlled way.”
Earlier start times for both races
Alongside the change of course, both races have been moved earlier in the day.
- Women’s Surf Coast Classic (Wednesday): 136.5km, start now 10:30 instead of 11:00
- Men’s Surf Coast Classic (Thursday): 174.4km, start now 10:00
Organisers said the shift reflects both the evolving fire situation and the hot weather forecast, and they will continue to monitor conditions closely with the relevant authorities.
No changes, for now, to the rest of the Great Ocean Road programme
At this stage, organisers have not announced any changes to events scheduled for Friday, Saturday or Sunday across the wider Mapei Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race week, but stressed that planning remains flexible depending on local conditions.
Surf Coast Shire mayor Cr Libby Stapleton echoed the emphasis on safety, while encouraging fans to gather on the Torquay seafront for the revised finish.
“The safety of our community and the cyclists, crews and officials is our highest priority,” Stapleton said, adding that spectators are encouraged to watch along The Esplanade in Torquay, with the home straight near Fishermans Beach expected to be a focal point.
