THE WILD PENGUIN

Location: TAS
Date: Friday, October 31, 2025

The Wild Penguin returns in 2025, showcasing Tasmania's reputation for Australia's best mountain biking trails. This three-day event combines the iconic Wild Mersey network's flowing singletrack with Tasmania's stunning wilderness setting. Taking advantage of Victoria's Melbourne Cup weekend and Tasmania's Recreation Day holiday, the event offers both competitive racing and accessible challenges for riders of all abilities.

Since its inception, The Wild Penguin has evolved to become one of Tasmania's most anticipated mountain biking festivals, drawing riders from across Australia to experience the island's renowned trail systems. The 2025 edition shifts focus entirely to the Wild Mersey trail network—perhaps Tasmania's best-kept mountain biking secret—while Penguin awaits new trail development at Dial Range.

Date: October 31 - November 2, 2025 (Melbourne Cup & Recreation Day long weekend)

Location: Wild Mersey Trail Network, Tasmania

Start Times: Prelude (Friday afternoon), Stages 1 & 2 (9:00 AM Saturday/Sunday)

Event Type: Multi-day mountain bike stage race

Distance Options: Approximately 10km (Prelude), 35km (Stage 1 & 2)

Prelude (Friday): Featuring the Warrawee Reserve trails outside Latrobe, this 9-10km time trial introduces riders to Tasmania's flowing singletrack with minimal climbing and maximum fun.

Stage 1 (Saturday): Starting and finishing in Railton, this challenging route showcases the iconic 10km Raptor Ridge descent—a highlight of the Wild Mersey network that perfectly balances technical features with flowing trail.

Stage 2 (Sunday): Beginning and ending at Seven Sheds Brewery in Railton, the final stage delivers "sweet flowing goodness" on the absolute best trails the Wild Mersey network has to offer. Full course details will be released 6-8 weeks before the event.

Early Bird: $220 (available until 3 weeks before event)

Standard: Full pricing TBA

Registration Includes: Entry to all three stages, number plate, license fees, insurance, traffic management, timing chip, T-shirt, and complimentary beer at Friday's Welcome Function.

Elite Category: Race for prize money against the best riders.

Weekend Warrior: For recreational riders aiming for the coveted King and Queen status under the handicap system.

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 through Saturday and Sunday stages
  • Personal bottle drop-off available
  • Electronic timing with real-time results
  • Course diversions available for riders requiring assistance
  • Social functions on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings
  • Multiple accommodation options from camping to luxury hotels

Event Organiser: Quad Events Australia

Email: info@quadcrownmtb.com.au

Website: quadcrownmtb.com.au

Instagram: @quadcrownmtb

Facebook: /QuadCrownMTB

By Air:

  • Direct flights to Launceston Airport (recommended): Less than 1 hour drive to Railton
  • Devonport Airport: 20 minutes from event venues
  • Hobart Airport: Approximately 3 hours drive

By Sea:

  • Spirit of Tasmania ferry service to Devonport
  • Less than 20 minutes drive from Devonport to all event locations

By Car:

  • From Launceston: 50 minutes to Railton
  • From Hobart: 3 hours to Railton
  • Car rental available at all airports

Make your mountain biking weekend a complete Tasmanian adventure with these nearby experiences:

Food & Beverage:

Natural Wonders:

Cultural Experiences:

Recovery Activities:

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