SHIMANO GRAVEL MUSTER 2026

Location: NT
Date: Thursday, August 20, 2026

The Shimano Gravel Muster delivers something beyond racing: an all-inclusive outback adventure where pristine gravel roads snake through spectacular gorges and vast open plains deep in the East MacDonnell Ranges. This four-day stage race welcomes everyone from gravel newcomers to seasoned racers, combining timed racing segments with relaxed cruise sections that let you savour the landscape without pressure.

Each evening brings the kind of experiences that define Australian cycling folklore: cold beers at remote cattle stations, campfire stories under star-studded skies, and genuine connections with fellow riders. The format balances competition with camaraderie. Race hard when the clock's running, then cruise with new mates through country that'll seep into your soul.

With temperatures in the low 20s and light winds, August in Central Australia offers ideal gravel conditions. The fully supported format means you arrive with your bike and kit while the organisers handle everything else—accommodation, meals, gear transport, and mechanical support across 384 kilometres of Red Centre riding.

Date: Thursday–Sunday, August 20-23, 2026

Location: Alice Springs and East MacDonnell Ranges, Northern Territory

Event Type: Multi-day gravel stage race (all-inclusive)

Distance Options: 384 km

Racing Format: 191 km timed segments, 193 km untimed cruise segments

Rider Limit: 100 participants (strictly capped)

Day 1: 4 km prologue plus 47 km stage featuring one 17 km racing segment
Day 2: 148 km, including two racing segments totalling 84 km
Day 3: 90 km featuring two racing segments totalling 47 km
Day 4: 95 km with one 43 km racing segment

The rally format divides each day between timed segments where you can test yourself against the terrain, and cruise segments for soaking in the East MacDonnell landscape. Routes traverse outback cattle stations through country shaped by the Arrernte people over countless generations, following gravel roads that reveal a different side of Australia's Red Centre.

Entry Opens: 12:00 pm AEDT, Monday, December 1, 2025
Base Entry: $1,873
Late Entry: $2,247 (from July 1, 2026)

Local Discount: Alice Springs residents receive 40% off with CARR or ASCC club membership.

Entry Includes:
Four-day race entry, event merchandise, two nights camping accommodation (Hale River and Ross River Homesteads with BYO tent option), gear transport for days 2-4, breakfasts (days 3-4), lunches (days 2-4), four dinners, on-course hydration and nutrition, opening night refreshments, professional photography, medical and mechanical support, timing services

Accommodation Upgrades: Various fixed accommodation options available at both homesteads (cabin upgrades, bunk rooms, etc.)—selected during online entry

Not Included: Alice Springs accommodation (nights 0, 1, and 4), Alice Springs meals (days 0-1), airport transfers (available as an optional add-on), alcohol at dinners.

Multiple water/feed stations on each stage

Gear transport between accommodations

Professional mechanical support

Medical teams on course

Safety systems and traffic management

Campfire gatherings and social activities

Professional event photography

Event Organiser: Rapid Ascent

Email: info@rapidascent.com.au

Phone: (03) 5261 5511

Website: gravelmuster.rapidascent.com.au

Facebook: @rapidascentevents

Instagram: @rapidascent

By Air

  • Alice Springs Airport serves as the main gateway
  • Regular flights from major Australian capitals
  • Information Gap: Specific airlines and flight frequency not provided
  • Optional airport transfer service available during online entry

Accommodation Base
Mercure Resort Alice Springs offers competitor rates for nights 0, 1, and 4. Event registration and briefings held at Mercure.

Experience Australia's Red Centre before or after the event:

Alice Springs Region

East MacDonnell Ranges

Extended Adventures

Tourism Support: Tourism Central Australia provides tour bookings and local planning assistance

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