The Women’s and Men’s Surf Coast Classics have been cancelled due to bushfire risk along the Great Ocean Road.
Race organisers have worked closely with emergency services, making the decision to abandon the events after updated advice on Tuesday.
The women’s race was set to be held on Wednesday 28 January, and the men’s on Thursday 29 January.
Heightened bushfire risk, rapidly changing weather conditions, and the need to keep evacuation routes clear have all informed the decision.
Race Director Scott Sunderland said it’s important that police and emergency services are on hand to prioritise fire-impacted communities.
“Given the bushfire situation across the region and the advice from Victoria Police and emergency services, the safest and most responsible decision in the conditions is to cancel the races scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday,” he said.
“While it’s unfortunate to cancel these two fantastic events, I’d like to acknowledge the CFA, Victoria Police, local authorities and our event partners for their strong collaboration and timely guidance throughout this process.”
Organisers will stay in touch with local authorities to assess conditions and consider other options for Thursday, with further updates to be provided if safe and appropriate alternatives are confirmed.
“We’ll continue to work closely with emergency services and local authorities on whether it is safe and appropriate to hold an alternative event,” Mr Sunderland said.
No impacts have been identified for the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race events scheduled for the weekend, set to go ahead as planned under current conditions.
