Ballarat Cycle Classic

The Ballarat Cycle Classic is taking a breather...
And plotting something big.

In February this year, something rather wonderful happened: the Ballarat Cycle Classic officially became an adult. After years of thousands of people riding for something bigger than themselves, through morning fog, triumphant finishes, and the occasional “why did I sign up for this?” moments, our beloved event turned 18.

It’s now old enough to vote, order a drink, and decide what it wants to be when it grows up… and frankly, so are we.

Over nearly two decades it’s grown into something extraordinary: thousands of riders, millions raised, and a community that turns up in all weather to say, “We’re with you.”

It has carried countless stories, enormous heart, and an incredible wave of support for the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute. And like any freshly-minted 18-year-old, it deserves a moment to figure out its next identity. If events could talk, this one would probably be asking for a gap year and a very long lie down.

So, in February 2026, instead of pumping tyres and shouting “LEFT!” around Lake Wendouree, we’ll be doing something equally important:

Hitting pause. Refreshing. Rethinking. And cooking up the next evolution of fundraising for FECRI.

Because if we’re going to do this, we’re going to do it properly — with all the heart, quirk, community love and FECRI magic you’ve given us for almost twenty years.

We’re eyeing off Spring 2026 for the comeback.
Think of it as the Cycle Classic stepping out for a glow-up.

Until then?
Watch this space.
We’re just getting started.

Behind every turn of the pedal and every dollar raised at the Ballarat Cycle Classic is something even more powerful: people. Passionate, generous, kind-hearted people who give their time, their talents, and their spirit to make it all happen.

To every volunteer who helps set up at sunrise, hands out water with a smile, manages registrations, keeps our riders safe on the road, cheers from the sidelines, and tidies up long after the last bike has crossed the line — thank you.

You are the heartbeat of this event.
You bring the community together.
You help power the search for a cancer cure.

We see you. We love you. And this week, more than ever, we celebrate you.

Happy National Volunteer Week!

Ballarat Cycle Classic 2025 Smashes Fundraising Record!

Ballarat, you’ve done it again! $320,166 (and counting - people are continuing to donate) raised for the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute (FECRI) – our highest fundraising total ever!

Even with fewer participants this year (1,062 riders and walkers), the incredible generosity of our community shone through, with online fundraising soaring from $58,207 in 2024 to an amazing $92,705 in 2025!

Professor George Kannourakis, Director of FECRI, shared:
"This year’s Ballarat Cycle Classic has shown that it’s not just about the number of participants—it’s about the power of the people who take part. Every rider, walker, and sponsor has contributed to ensuring that we can continue our world-class research right here in Ballarat. We are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received."
To every rider, walker, donor, and sponsor—THANK YOU! Your support means everything, and we can’t wait to do it all again in 2026!

The Legends Behind the Scenes – Fulton Hogan!

While our riders were hitting the road, an absolute dream team from Fulton Hogan was working tirelessly to keep everything running smoothly (and safely!) from 4 AM this morning—yes, FOUR. And if that wasn’t enough, they were already up at the crack of dawn in Creswick yesterday making sure the course was ready to roll!

A massive shout-out to Chris and his 24-strong crew, who donated their time to manage traffic, set up infrastructure, and ensure the Ballarat Cycle Classic could happen without a hitch.

And let’s not forget Rick Coyle and his daughter Molly, who drove all the way from Mildura just to be here helping out. That’s dedication!

To the entire Fulton Hogan team—you are absolute champions, and we couldn’t have done this without you. Whether it was setting up barriers, directing traffic, or just making sure our riders didn’t end up in a paddock somewhere (we see you, Chris! 😉), you made it all happen.

Next time you see one of these legends, give them a high five, a coffee, or maybe even a nap—they’ve earned it!

And how's this - someone lost their keys, handed them in - and Christ was straight on to it to drop them back to her! What a guy!!

LIVE MUSIC TO FUEL THE FUN!

The Ballarat Cycle Classic isn’t just about the ride—it’s about the vibes! Get ready for an epic Sunday of live music on Sunday 16 Feb, as we bring an incredible line-up of local talent to the main stage at Lake Wendouree!

10:30 - 11:30 AM | Azlan & Tristan (Azza and Pancakes)
Born to play, these brothers have spent decades perfecting their craft—around campfires, busking, and jamming with family. Their soulful harmonies, rhythmic guitar, and cultural roots blend country, folk, and didgeridoo to create a uniquely immersive sound. From originals to beloved classics, they’ll have you tapping your feet and singing along!

11:50 AM - 12:50 PM | Dan West (feat. Steven Skilbeck)
A master of melody with an ever-growing repertoire spanning decades of hits, Dan West knows how to entertain a crowd! Expect a genre-spanning set filled with bangers from every era, featuring his long-time musical mate, Steven Skilbeck, on backing vocals and percussion.

1:10 - 2:10 PM | Eloise & Acacia Lund
A sister act like no other! This folk, country, and blues duo weaves together stunning harmonies and acoustic magic that’ll captivate you from the first note. Throw in some pop singalongs and pub classics, and it’s the perfect way to keep the Ballarat Cycle Classic energy soaring!

2:30 - 3:30 PM | Matt McFarlane
If Outlaw Country is your jam, Matt McFarlane is your man! With a catalogue of originals and covers of icons like Johnny Cash and David Bowie, Matt’s rich, deep voice will transport you straight to a whiskey-soaked honky-tonk or a rock ‘n’ roll dive bar.

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