Up to Ceres and down to Moriac

From the waterfront start, riders head south through the city, over the Barwon River and will be quickly greeted by the uphill challenge that awaits them west of Geelong, at the historic township of Ceres.

The tranquil country roads could lay the foundations of an important strategic breakaway as riders negotiate the rolling farmland hills before heading southward to Moriac. 

Torquay and the Surf Coast 

As riders descend to the coast, they’ll pass the famous Bells Beach and close in on busy Torquay, a haven for locals and much-loved escape for Melbournians and visitors from around the world. The many families, swimmers and surfers gathering around the busy beaches in Torquay will pause to watch the colourful peloton charge along The Esplanade as crowds gather at one of the spectator cheer sites. 

Stunning coastal views could provide a pleasant distraction for the peloton as strong crosswinds may feature on the straight stretch toward Barwon Heads. 

Barwon Heads and the Bellarine Heat

Hugging the picturesque Thirteenth Beach coastline, the peloton will pass through Cadel’s home base at Barwon Heads, before crossing the Barwon Heads Bridge.

Rolling across the water, the peloton then turns inland from Ocean Grove, and heads through the Bellarine Peninsula back toward Geelong city. 

Geelong, Challambra & The Closing Stages 

Geelong signals an arrival onto the finishing circuits, but with a gruelling 68km still to travel. 

The Elite Men’s course takes on four loops of Geelong, where battles will be won and lost on the climb of Challambra Crescent – the summit marking the opportunity to capture points for the coveted KOM title. The roar of the crowd and the electric atmosphere on the hill will have fans in a frenzy – This is one spectator point is not to be missed! 

Descending Scenic Road, the peloton will touch speeds of almost 85km/h into Queens Park. The course has a pinch as it climbs its way out of Queens Park and up the road of the same name. 

 A left turn and a further pinch up Melville Avenue, the race then continues up Minerva Road, connecting through to Church Street. The race travels through residential Geelong, past the Victorian houses, over the Highway and onto the Geelong waterfront. It’s here that the riders get their first look at what the finale will be like in three laps time.