The Tour of Gippsland returns to local roads this month, with Rhyll again hosting the opening criterium and with stages on the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.

Cyclists from around the country will compete in the three-day event, August 25-27, which forms part of AusCycling’s premier National Road Series.

The Tour of Gippsland 2023 is free for spectators and will consist of four stages, hosting the men’s and women’s National Road Series teams as well as once again being one of only three events in the country to host an under-19 development category, with the best of cycling’s emerging talent.

AusCycling will be running an Ausbike participation program taster session at the track on Sunday between 11pm and 1pm. 

This is for 5 to 12-year-olds and is free to attend – kids just need to come down with their bikes to get involved.

Bass Coast Shire Council Mayor Michael Whelan said events like the Tour of Gippsland were vital to Bass Coast, driving tourism in the off season. 

“I am thrilled to see that equal prize money is given across all stages of the competition to the winners of the events which see cyclists of all ages participating,” Cr Whelan said.

This is an event for locals and visitors to the region that will encourage further economic growth from tourism.

There will be road closures for this event (basscoast.vic.gov.au/road-closures) including:

sections of Beach Road and Lock Road, Rhyll from 8am to 3pm on Friday August 25.

Details: basscoast.vic.gov.au/explore/whats-on/events/tour-of-gippsland