THE ORCA

Location: NSW
Date: Friday, September 12, 2025

The Orca delivers Australia's most spectacular coastal mountain biking experience, combining three days of world-class riding with the relaxed atmosphere of NSW's pristine Sapphire Coast. This boutique stage race showcases the region's incredible trail diversity, from technical single track through ancient forests to flowing coastal descents with Pacific Ocean views.

The Orca has become the flagship event in the mini stage race series, earning its place on Australia's "must do" MTB event list. While the Sapphire Coast region is renowned as a tourist destination - famous for the killer whales that frequent the coastline - the recently completed trail network is set to become the future driver of tourism. This perfect combination of world-class trails and natural tourism creates the ideal setting for an unforgettable cycling experience.

Date: September 12-14, 2025

Location: Eden & Tathra, NSW

Event Type: Three-stage MTB festival

Distance Options:

  • Prelude: 10km time trial
  • Stage 1: 35km coastal trails (650m elevation)
  • Stage 2: 30km trail network (elevation TBC)

Registration: Weekend pass $220 (Early Bird until August 24)

Prelude (Friday): Starting at the Gravity Eden Trail Hub, riders tackle a 10km time trial through the heart of Gravity Eden Park. Beginning at 3pm with 30-second intervals, this opener sets handicaps for weekend stages while delivering your first taste of the region's incredible single track.

Stage 1 (Saturday): From the iconic Tathra Hotel overlooking Boulder Bay, riders embark on 35km of coastal trails and classic single track. The course heads south to Games Bay before exploring 25km of meticulously maintained trails at Bundadung, courtesy of Tathra MTB Club. Expect flowing descents, technical climbs, and stunning South Pacific Ocean views as you finish back through town.

Stage 2 (Sunday): Starting from Hotel Australasia in Eden's main street, this final stage showcases 30km of Gravity Eden MTB Park's finest trails. The highlight remains the legendary 8km Wilderness Trail (Round The Outside) – possibly Australia's best descent – complemented by new trail additions. After a gentle 2km warm-up, prepare for challenging climbs rewarded by world-class flowing descents.

Early Bird: $220 (until 3 weeks before event)
Standard: $250
Single Stage: $95 per stage

Registration Includes:

  • Entry to all three stages
  • Number plate
  • License fees and insurance
  • Timing chip
  • Event T-shirt
  • Welcome Function drink
  • Professional course management

Elite Category:

  • Prize money for top performers
  • Male and female divisions

Weekend Warrior:

  • For recreational riders seeking challenge
  • Unique handicap system based on Prelude performance
  • Awards for most consistent riders across stages

Sub-Categories (Male & Female):

  • Juniors (12-15)
  • Open (15-39)
  • Masters (40-49)
  • Super Masters (50-59)
  • Grand Masters (60+)
  • E-Bikes (all ages)

Event Format

Prelude (Friday): Individual time trial format on a 9-10km course of mostly fun singletrack with minimal climbing. Times establish your Weekend Warrior handicap.

Stages 1 & 2: Riders start in allocated waves based on Prelude seeding, with Elite riders in the first wave. Courses feature the region's best trails with an emphasis on enjoyable, flowing singletrack.

Weekend Warrior Handicap System: Like a golf handicap, this unique system lets riders "Race Your Own Race" by measuring consistency across stages rather than outright speed, giving everyone a chance at podium glory.

  • Water points at approximately halfway on Stages 1 & 2
  • Personal bottle drop service
  • Electronic timing with live results
  • Course diversions available for riders needing shorter options
  • Professional medical support
  • Social functions each evening with awards and prizes

Event Organiser: Quad Events Australia

Email: info@quadcrownmtb.com.au

Website: quadcrownmtb.com.au

Instagram: @quadcrownmtb

Facebook: /QuadCrownMTB

By Air:

  • Merimbula Airport (30 minutes from Eden)
    • Regular services from Sydney and Melbourne
  • Canberra Airport (3 hours from Eden)
    • Major airlines with connections to all capitals
    • Car hire available for the scenic drive south

By Road:

  • From Sydney: 6-7 hours via Princes Highway (478km)
  • From Melbourne: 7-8 hours via Princes Highway (550km)
  • From Canberra: 3 hours via Monaro Highway (243km)

Make your mountain bike weekend a complete Sapphire Coast experience with these must-visit attractions.

For Recovery:

Food & Drink:

Adventure:

Family Activities:

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