Cadel's Hometown (59km Course)
A smooth ride out and back to Cadel's hometown
In 2025, thousands of enthusiastic riders took on the Cadel’s Hometown 59km course as part of the TAC People’s Ride.
An enjoyable ride that passes through the iconic township of Barwon Heads, this shorter course provides a flatter cycling experience for beginner and intermediate riders alike.
This course option excludes the Challambra climb, making it an achievable but scenic option for those wanting to take to the roads themselves as part of our weekend of cycling.
Cadel’s Hometown short course begins with a loop around the Geelong Botanic Gardens, then takes advantage of the smooth surfaces offered on Barwon Heads Road for the out-and-back ride to Cadel’s hometown of Barwon Heads.
Finishing on the famous Geelong waterfront, celebrate your ride at the Steampacket Gardens Event Village, or find a vantage spot along the course to catch the Elite Women’s Road Race as the world’s best riders race for glory.
Stay tuned : 2026 course to be confirmed!
The 2025 course
A buzzing start in Geelong
When you don the lycra in Geelong, you’ll instantly feel part of our wonderful cycling family.
The music, entertainment and atmosphere at our famous waterfront start line will have you buzzing as thousands of cyclists join Cadel at the traditional start/finish location.
Cruise around Eastern Park
Rolling out from the start line, you will first take Hearne Parade along the water, and see first-hand why Geelong is a stunning place to ride, with views of Corio Bay.
Turning down Limeburners Road, the course turns right at Boundary Road through residential Geelong.
“I rode last year and absolutely loved it! I’m looking forward to bringing some new friends down to have a go!” – Andrew
A smooth ride to Barwon Heads
Turning right and riding over the Breakwater Road Bridge, you’ll turn onto the smooth surface of Barwon Heads Road.
Passing through Charlemont and Armstrong Creek, you’ll make the trip towards Cadel’s home base, Barwon Heads.
Picture-perfect Thirteenth Beach coastline
As you pass (or stop for a break at) the buzzing Barwon Heads Hotel and café at the roundabout, the course takes you toward the picturesque Thirteenth Beach coastline.
Rolling along the coastline, you’ll turn inland onto Bluestone School Road and rejoin Barwon Heads Road as you head back to toward Geelong.
PROUDLY PRESENTED BY TAC
The Transport Accident Commission is a Victorian Government-owned organisation that supports those injured on our roads and promotes road safety.
Each and every one of us, as motorists, motorcyclists, pedestrians and cyclists has the shared responsibility to use our road system safely and with respect for each other.
Together we can ride towards a future where every journey is a safe one.