DIRTY WARRNY

Location: VIC
Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026

The Dirty Warrny stands as Victoria's ultimate gravel challenge, inviting riders to conquer the epic journey from Geelong to Warrnambool across some of Australia's most diverse off-road terrain. From the dense Otway forests to rolling Heytesbury hills and dramatic coastal landscapes, this event delivers an authentic test of endurance, skill, and determination that has become legendary in Australian cycling.

Since its inception, this event has grown into one of Australia's most respected gravel challenges. The event consistently sells out, with the Monument route particularly prized as a badge of honour among the gravel community.

The 2025 edition has been postponed to allow for a comprehensive reimagining of the event. Organisers are taking time to elevate every detail—from enhanced rider support and bigger community involvement to greater alignment with evolving safety standards and statutory requirements. The Dirty Warrny team is committed to delivering a world-class gravel experience that truly captures the grit, adventure, and spirit of the community.

The event will return stronger than ever in November 2026, with a premium experience that stands among the best gravel events in the world. Riders who registered for 2025 are being contacted directly, and online entry for 2026 will reopen shortly.

Date: 7 November 2026

Start Locations:

  • Monument (246 km): Mount Moriac Recreation Reserve, Geelong
  • Forrest Expedition (140 km): Forrest Caravan Park, Forrest
  • Classic 80 (84 km): Timboon Recreation Reserve, Timboon

Start Times:

  • Monument: 6:30 AM AEDT
  • Forrest Expedition: 8:30 AM AEDT
  • Classic 80: 9:30 AM AEDT

Finish Location: Lake Pertobe, Warrnambool

Event Type: Gravel Endurance Challenge

Distance Options: 246 km, 140 km, 84 km

Elevation Gain: 3,068m (Monument), 1,415m (Forrest), 772m (Classic)

The Monument route presents the supreme test, traversing 246km from Geelong to Warrnambool with 84% unsealed terrain and punishing 14.2% gradients. The journey begins with fast gravel sections before tackling the dense Otway forests, then emerges onto the undulating Heytesbury hills before the rewarding coastal approach to Warrnambool.

The Forrest Expedition offers a perfect middle-distance challenge, combining technical forest sections with open farmland gravel. With 1,415m of climbing across 140km, this route demands smart pacing and consistent effort, particularly through the rolling second half as fatigue sets in.

The Classic 80 provides the most accessible option at 84km, yet still delivers an authentic gravel experience with 65% unsealed surfaces. Fast, flowing sections through the picturesque Heytesbury region make this ideal for gravel enthusiasts looking for a challenging yet achievable adventure.

Early Bird Registration:

  • Monument (246 km): $260 (AusCycling Members) / $270 (Non-Members)
  • Forrest Expedition (140 km): $190 (AusCycling Members) / $200 (Non-Members)
  • Classic 80 (84 km): $110 (AusCycling Members) / $120 (Non-Members)

Standard Registration:

  • Monument (246 km): $280 (AusCycling Members) / $290 (Non-Members)
  • Forrest Expedition (140 km): $210 (AusCycling Members) / $220 (Non-Members)
  • Classic 80 (84 km): $130 (AusCycling Members) / $140 (Non-Members)

Registration includes: Event jersey (Monument & Forrest only), timing chip, official finisher medal, course support, and finish line festivities.

  • Aid Stations: Strategically placed along each course with water, electrolytes, and snacks.
  • Mechanical Support: Neutral support available, but riders should carry basic repair tools.
  • Medical Assistance: First aid teams and medical professionals on standby.
  • Finish Village: Lake Pertobe hosts live music, food stalls, a beer and wine bar, and presentations.

To Geelong Start (Monument):

  • From Melbourne: 75 minutes via M1 (75 km)
  • From Melbourne Airport: 60 minutes via M8 (85 km)
  • Free overnight parking available at Mount Moriac Reserve

To Forrest Start (Expedition):

  • From Melbourne: 2 hours via M1 and C151 (160 km)
  • From Geelong: 75 minutes via C151 (85 km)

To Timboon Start (Classic 80):

  • From Melbourne: 3 hours via M1 and A1 (230 km)
  • From Warrnambool: 40 minutes via C156 (40 km)

Make it a complete weekend by exploring Victoria's spectacular southwest region.

Warrnambool Area:

  • Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village - Interactive museum and sound-and-light show
  • Logan's Beach Whale Watching Platform (seasonal)
  • Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground - Family-friendly activities

Dining & Recovery:

Natural Wonders:

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