Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race elite men’s and women’s teams will have the opportunity to test their power in a new criterium (closed-circuit course) on the world-famous Australian Formula 1™ Grand Prix track.

Launched today, Towards Zero RACE MELBOURNE, sponsored by the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) will take place on Australia Day, Thursday 26 January, providing a brilliant spectacle & will shine the light on the importance of road safety.

Parliamentary Secretary Danielle Green was pleased to make the announcement.

“We said we’d keep growing the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race and that’s exactly what we’re doing. Today’s announcement is more proof this is fast becoming one of Australia’s favourite cycling events.

“Victoria is the cycling capital of Australia. We’re not just the leader for the biggest and best events, we have the circuits and tracks other states can only dream of.

“Race Melbourne gives Melburnians a chance to experience for themselves the best of everything this great major event offers,” Ms Green said.

Transport Accident Commission Chief Executive Officer, Joe Calafiore, said Towards Zero RACE MELBOURNE is about riding towards a future where every journey is safe.

“As cyclists, motorcyclists, pedestrians and motorists we all have a shared responsibility to use our road system safely and with respect for each other. This race will shine a light on our vision for a future free of deaths and serious injuries on our roads,” Mr Calafiore said.

Parks Victoria Executive Director Melbourne Division, Chris Hardman, added, Albert Park offers families and fans ideal vantage points on natural reserves to see the international cycling greats in action.

“What better way to celebrate Australia Day than with a picnic at Albert Park watching these elite men and women compete – and all for the vital task of working towards safer roads,” he said.

Peta Mullens, 2015 Australian National Road Race and Mountain Bike Champion, competing in her third CEGORR, and riding for Hagens Berman Supermint (USA), is excited there will be a new race forming part of the event.

“The Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race is already a fantastic event. Being from Bendigo, Towards Zero RACE MELBOURNE gives me another chance to race on home soil and showcase my home state to my overseas teammates,” Ms Mullens said.

There will be no better way to celebrate Australia Day than a picnic at Albert Park offering families and fans ideal vantage points to see international cycling live in action in Melbourne.