Mountain to Surf cancelled due to heightened fire risk

THE Lorne Mountain to Surf, scheduled for Friday, has been cancelled due to forecast dry lightning and heightened fire risk.

In a statement on Thursday, race director Peter Williamson said the decision had been made following advice from Parks Victoria that the Great Otway National Park would be closed for 24 hours.

“The safety of participants is of the utmost priority, and as the course runs through the national park, the event cannot proceed safely under these conditions,” he said.

“Participants and members of the local community are strongly advised not to attempt the course through the national park while the closure is in place.”

All registered Mountain to Surf runners will be transferred to a virtual run, to be completed within the next two weeks.

The 2026 Pier to Pub swim will proceed as planned on Saturday (January 10).

“Lorne Surf Life Saving Club looks forward to welcoming swimmers, spectators and visitors to Lorne Beach,” Williamson said.

“We thanks runners, volunteers and the community for their understanding.”