Due to high fire risk and unpredictable weather conditions in the Great Ocean Road region, both the men’s and women’s races of the Surf Coast Classic scheduled for January 28 and 29 have been officially cancelled. This decision, made in consultation with Victoria Police and emergency services, is aimed at ensuring the safety of all and freeing up evacuation routes for local residents. While the weekend events are still under consideration, organizers are exploring the possibility of an alternative event for Thursday, pending an improvement in the situation.
“Video – Tobias Lund Andresen wins the race in 2025”
“The safety of our riders, teams, staff, volunteers, and spectators remains our top priority”
Faced with climate urgency and the necessary mobilization of firefighting resources, the race management has chosen caution. Event director Scott Sunderland emphasized that this decision, though difficult, was the responsible choice given the circumstances: “The safety of our riders, teams, staff, volunteers, and spectators is our absolute priority. Considering the bushfire situation in the region and advice from Victoria Police, the safest decision is to cancel the races on Wednesday and Thursday.”
