Stay and win in Lorne

THERE has never been a better time to book a stay in Lorne, with your chance to win $33,000 in local spend cards.

It is part of Surf Coast Shire council’s Lorne Stay & Win competition, aimed at supporting business owners after a tough summer due to flooding and bushfire risk.

People who book a Lorne getaway, spend $150 or more on accommodation before 26 June, and upload their receipt before or during their stay can enter the weekly draw to win a local spend card ranging from $200 to $500, with 10 winners drawn across Thursday and Friday each week.

The competition is courtesy of the 2026 Mapei Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race professional teams, who kindly donated all prize money from the Surf Coast Classic.

The men’s and women’s Classic races, which start in Lorne, were cancelled in January due to bushfire risk and relocated to Geelong.

One of the first winners was Denise from Sunbury, who scored a $200 voucher to spend during her Lorne holiday.

Lorne is a long-time favourite for Denise and her husband Allan – they’ve been regular visitors for the past 10–15 years.

“We love it and try and come as much as we can, usually a few times a year – we find any excuse to come,” Denise said.

“It’s a nice place, everyone’s lovely. The businesses make you feel really welcome; no one is trying to rush you off. It has a great atmosphere, so peaceful and tranquil – it’s like a health retreat away from the stresses of modern life.”

Denise had originally booked a stay around the time of the flood and returned for a five-day visit this past week.

“I always tell people that it’s nice in summer but also in winter – you just rug up,” she said. “There’s so much to do with the beautiful beach and walks, plus so many great spots to eat.”

Denise struggled to pick a favourite spot, saying she liked to visit them all and “spread the love”.

“We usually start the day with the buffet breakfast at the Mantra – that sets you up – then we’ll pick a different restaurant for each day,” she said.

Among Denise and Allan’s favourites are Chopstix Noodle Bar, the Lorne Hotel, Pizza Pizza and Captain Hooked Fish and Chips.

Denise was moved by the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race cyclists who generously donated their prize money to support the Lorne Stay & Win competition.

“Not too many people would do that, so we really appreciate where it’s come from,” Denise said.

Mayor Libby Stapleton said the Lorne community was ready to welcome visitors this autumn and beyond.

“We really hope the chance to win bonus spending money appeals to people – whether that’s Melbourne or Geelong residents looking for a coastal getaway a little closer to home given the high petrol costs, or people from further away,” she said.

To find out more, get inspiration for your Lorne trip and enter the competition, visit iamlorne.com.au

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