More than 200 cyclists and support crew will roll into Geelong next week as part of a nine-day cycling event raising money for cancer research.
The annual Tour de Cure, which kicks off Thursday 12 March in Canberra, will take a 1400km route to Hobart via regional towns and communities, including a stopover in Geelong.
The Tour will arrive in Geelong from Ballarat on Monday 16 March, with a stage on Tuesday taking the riders from Geelong to Torquay and back on Tuesday 17 March.
Since it was established in 2007, Tour de Cure has raised more than $158 million, funded 1220 cancer support projects and research and prevention programs, which have contributed to 231 world-class scientific breakthroughs.
Among the riders taking part are current and former professional cyclists Cadel Evans, Chloe Hosking, Brendan Johnston, Richie Porte and Sarah Roy.
Sports journalist and Tour board member Mark Beretta will participate in the ride this March for the 17th consecutive year.
He said he kept coming back because of the life-saving outcomes the event’s fundraising made possible.
“The Tour de Cure family is a fantastic and supportive group focused on providing researchers with the money they need to push further in beating all forms of cancer,” he said.
“The support we receive from Australians, not just over the 9-days of the ride, but year-round, is extraordinary. The cause means even more to me now having lost my father to cancer in September 2025, and my mum battling stage 4 ovarian cancer.”
Tour de Cure chief executive David Mann said the milestone reflected the organisation’s long-standing commitment to funding impactful cancer research and support services.
“Reaching our 20th year of Signature Tour is an incredible milestone for Tour de Cure and a testament to the passion and commitment of our community, riders, volunteers and supporters,” he said.
“Our Signature Tour is an extraordinary example of courage and purpose. At Tour de Cure, we are inspired by people who turn their personal cancer experience and ambitions into action that helps others.
“Every dollar raised will help fund vital cancer research, prevention and support programs, giving more Australians the chance to live healthier, cancer-free lives.”
Visit signaturetour.tourdecure.com.au to donate or for more information.
