Bushfire danger forces Surf Coast Classic cancellation

ORGANISERS of the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race (CEGORR) have cancelled both of this week’s Surf Coast Classic races, citing the “evolving bushfire situation” in the area.

The lead-in races were originally scheduled to take place tomorrow (Wednesday, January 28) for the women and this Thursday for the men on a course between Lorne and Torquay, but were shifted yesterday (Monday, January 26) to an alternate Torquay-to-Torquay layout due to forecast severe weather and bushfire activity in the Otways.

This afternoon (Tuesday, January 27), organisers stated they had remained in close contact with Victoria Police and emergency services, and decided to cancel tomorrow and Thursday’s races following updated advice.

“This is due to heightened bushfire risk, rapidly changing and unpredictable weather conditions, the need to keep evacuation routes clear and the requirement for Victoria Police and emergency services resources to remain focused on supporting impacted communities.”

Organisers are continuing to assess conditions and explore alternative options for Thursday, “should it be safe and appropriate to do so”.

The Mapei Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race on Saturday for the women and Sunday for the men is proceeding as planned, with no identified impacts as of today.

“The safety of our riders, teams, staff, volunteers and spectators remains our highest priority,” CEGORR race director Scott Sunderland said.

“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.

“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.

“We’ll continue to work closely with emergency services and local authorities on whether it is safe and appropriate to hold an alternative event.”