OUTBACK CENTURY CYCLE CHALLENGE

Location: QLD
Date: Saturday, November 8, 2025

Experience the unique mental challenge of the Outback Century Cycle Challenge, a signature event of Winton's renowned Outback Festival. This 100km metric century traverses the vast, uninterrupted landscapes of Queensland's iconic outback on fully sealed roads. While lacking the traditional climbs of most cycling events, this ride presents an entirely different test—conquering the psychological challenge of endless horizons and the raw beauty of Australia's heartland.

Since its inception, this unique event has offered cyclists an experience unlike any other in Australia, where the challenge lies not in conquering hills but in embracing the hypnotic vastness of the outback. The 2025 edition coincides with Winton's 150th anniversary celebrations, making it a particularly special year to participate in this bucket-list cycling experience.

Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025

Location: Winton, Queensland

Start Time: 5:30 AM

Event Type: Metric Century Road Ride

Distance: 100 km

Elevation: Minimal (famously flat)

Start/Finish: Waltzing Matilda Centre, 50 Elderslie St, Winton

Starting from the iconic Waltzing Matilda Centre in Winton, riders face a true outback adventure on a fully sealed out-and-back route. The course offers a unique cycling experience—while lacking technical climbs, the mental challenge of the vast, open landscape creates a test of endurance unlike any other. Expect to share the road with more emus than cars as you journey through the spiritual heart of Australia, with endless blue skies and red earth stretching to the horizon in all directions.

2025 registration details coming soon

Registration expected to include:

  • Event timing
  • Support vehicles
  • Drink stations
  • Event merchandise
  • Post-ride recovery zone

Drink station at course turnaround point

Three support vehicles (lead, middle, and follow) carrying first aid and water supplies

Pre-ride safety briefing

Full course marking

Post-event recovery area

Event Organiser: The Outback Festival Winton Inc

Email: info@outbackfestival.com.au

Phone: +61 07 4657 1558

Mobile: 0429 806 140

Website: outbackfestival.com.au

Facebook: /outbackfest

Instagram: @outbackfestivalqueensland

By Air

  • Winton Airport: Charter and private flights only
  • Longreach Airport (177 km): Regular flights from Brisbane with Qantas
  • Mount Isa Airport (380 km): Services from Brisbane, Townsville, and Cairns

By Road

  • From Brisbane: 1,350 km (15 hours) via Warrego and Landsborough Highways
  • From Townsville: 690 km (7.5 hours) via Flinders Highway
  • From Longreach: 180 km (2 hours) via Landsborough Highway
  • From Mount Isa: 380 km (4 hours) via Landsborough Highway

Coach Services

  • Bus Queensland operates services to Winton from:
    • Brisbane (twice weekly)
    • Mount Isa (twice weekly)
    • Longreach (connections to Brisbane services)

Make the most of your outback adventure by exploring Winton's unique attractions before or after your ride.

Dinosaur Experiences

Historic Sites

Natural Wonders

Outback Festival Events

  • Quilton Australian Dunny Derby: The festival's signature quirky event
  • Outback Ironman/Ironwoman competitions
  • Western River Road Run
  • Live music and entertainment

Recovery Options

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