Central VIC Schools, Rocky Trail Academy is returning to Creswick and we’re ready to absolutely send it!
We have advised that prior to the event weekend, thinning operations will be undertaken within two sections of plantation, within the Djuwang Baring trails network, between Friday 6 February and Friday 13 March 2026. The event will still continue as planned and we will provide an update re trail reopening date on Fri 6th March as they are hoping to reopen this weekend ahead of schedule..
This race is for high school students, fostering a love for cycling in a fun and friendly environment. Experience the thrill of competition with 3 timed stages and 5 runs per track to find your fastest time per track.
The three distinct tracks catering to different abilities, riders can find their flow and challenge themselves at their own pace. With a focus on endurance, speed, and technical skills, there’s a track for everyone – the Academy is the perfect stepping stone into the world of mountain biking.
Riders compete for grade-based category podium positions for girls and boys – Year 7+8 (Junior), Year 9+10 (Intermediate) and Year 11+12 (Senior). Racers also earn points for their school, competing for the Champion School title. The flexible format, with no strict start orders, allows for a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Held on Fridays, these events not only provide exciting racing experiences but also engage youth in healthy outdoor recreation. Rocky Trail ensures a smooth and enjoyable event for everyone, making it easy for schools to participate.
Rocky Trail understands the needs of schools, teachers, and parents. Our team of experienced professionals ensures a smooth and well-organised event, making it easy for educators to plan and for students to simply enjoy the ride.
Join us for a day of friendly competition, school spirit, and creating memories together.
New to Academy racing, check out the Event Guide for everything you need to know. Jump on our Venue Guide for location and parking info. Hit the Stages Guide for info on all the tracks.
date:
time:
9:00am-1:30pm
This event is proudly supported by these epic partners:
DESTINATION Creswick
With a vibrant cycling community, excellent facilities, and easy accessibility from Melbourne, Creswick is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure, serenity, and a true mountain biking experience in Victoria.
Tracks Guide
All tracks start around the “Swamp Wallaby Hub”. This track will be the pedal test. Starting on “Quartz Ridge” and then dropping onto “Rainbow Way” to return. 0.8km long and raises and falls only 15m.
The flow track is “Windlass”. Track is 850m long and drops 70m.
The technical track is “Balotj”. 950m long and drops 70m
Got a question, check out our FAQ’s or send us a message on the chat at the bottom of the page
Event Guide
Everything you need to know!
Essential Links
- Academy Event Guide
- Academy Rules
- Photo Links
- Volunteer
- Download Teachers Guide
Categories
- Primary – Year 5 & 6 (selected events)
- Juniors – Years 7 or 8
- Intermediate – Years 9 or 10
- Seniors – Years 11 or 12
Entry Fee
- Entry is $60.00 per student
- Open to all school students.
- Entry fee includes all rider photos ( via link to download post-event)
- Group student registration is available – contact jo@rockytrailentertainment.com to arrange
We are racing on the awesome mountain bike trails in Creswick “Djuwang Baring” which means ‘long track’ in the Dja Dja Wurrung language.”
The trails wind their way through Dja Dja Wurrung Country, passing through State Forests, Regional Parks, and HVP Plantation lands. This network located in Hepburn Shire Council is all the talk amongst Victorian MTB community and will deliver an unparalleled experience of the local landscape’s cultural values, forested ecology, and mining heritage.
The Schedule
The following is the standard schedule.
All participants must adhere to the 8:50 AM briefing time.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 7:30 AM | Event Village & Registration Open | |
| 8:50 AM | Compulsory Rider Briefing | The safety code word will be announced here. |
| 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM | Race Runs | Timed runs begin across the three stages. |
| 1:30 PM | Last Race Run | All timed runs must be completed. |
| 1:45 PM | Podium Presentations* | Individual and Overall Champion School awards. |
The following schedule applies to both 1 & 2 day events.
The Event Parking will be adjacent to the event hub off in Northcottt Park. Entry is via Semmens Ave. We request all event patrons to park here as per our permit conditions. NO event parking is allowed in the nearby St George Lake reserve.
Marshals will be in attendance to assist patrons parking.
Event Services
- Registration Tent with live timing, merch and race info
- Music and live race updates
- Toilets available on site
- Professional First Aid
- No official Bike support – Please come prepared and bring spares to ensure you have a great day.
Some of our awesome event partners will be showcasing their products throughout the event.
TREK Tech Support
The crew from the local Trek bike store will be at the race! All bikes should arrive at the event “race-ready” and it’s always a good idea to bring any bike-specific spare parts, but the TREK team can assist with mechanical issues on the day.
We’re thrilled to announce that the local TREK bike store will provide neutral bike support for all students at Rocky Trail Academy events!
TREK’s dedication to quality and fostering a love for cycling perfectly aligns with our mission to get more juniors out on bikes. This hands-on support by the Trek crew on the day we can ensure that every student can focus on the ride, build confidence, and enjoy the thrill of healthy competition.
We will have the local team from Wilos Country Kitchen on site all day serving hot drinks and yummy food for lunch. Support the businesses that support our events.
