Mount Taylor will once again welcome Victoria’s best downhill mountain bikers when it hosts the opening round of the 2026/27 Victorian Downhill Mountain Bike Series (VDHS) on October 3–4.
The highly anticipated event is expected to attract around 250 riders from across Victoria and interstate, bringing together some of the country’s most talented downhill racers for a weekend of high-speed action.
Competitors will range from emerging junior riders through to experienced racers in the Super Masters 50+ categories, highlighting the broad appeal of the sport.
As the first round of the new VDHS season, the event is set to deliver fierce competition as riders look to make an early statement in their championship campaigns.
The weekend’s racing will culminate on Sunday afternoon with the under-19 and Elite categories, where some of the sport’s fastest and most skilled athletes will battle for the top step of the podium.
Local club Mountain Biking East Gippsland (MTBEG) is proud to host the event and continue showcasing Mount Taylor as one of Victoria’s premier mountain biking destinations.
With strong participation from local riders expected, the event provides a valuable opportunity for East Gippsland competitors to test themselves against the state’s best on their home trails. Racing on familiar terrain, local riders will be looking to make the most of their home-track knowledge as they take on a strong field of competitors from across Victoria and interstate.
Downhill mountain biking continues to experience strong growth across Victoria, particularly among younger riders. Victorian Downhill Series events regularly attract large fields, reflecting the increasing popularity
of a sport that combines technical skill, fitness, and courage.
Riders will spend Saturday and Sunday morning familiarising themselves with the course before racing gets underway from approximately 11.30am on Sunday.
Using a time-trial format, competitors will start at intervals, racing individually against the clock in a bid to set the fastest time down the mountain.
Spectators will be able to enjoy the action from a number of accessible vantage points along the course. One of the most popular viewing locations is the iconic “Cabbage Patch” rock garden, where riders will navigate a challenging technical section that often produces some of the most spectacular moments of the day.
Local residents and visitors are encouraged to come along and support the riders, with Sunday’s racing providing a fantastic day out for the whole family. A canteen will be operating at the event, offering food and refreshments throughout the day.
The event would not be possible without the support of a dedicated team of around 40 volunteers each day, who will assist with course operations, rider safety, and event logistics, ensuring the weekend runs smoothly for competitors and spectators alike.
East Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said Council was proud to support the Victorian Downhill Mountain Bike Series, which brings visitors from across the state and beyond to spend time and
money in the region.
“It’s great to see Mount Taylor being used as one of the state’s premier mountain bike parks, and I want to thank Mountain Biking East Gippsland and their volunteers for making it happen,” Cr Ashworth said.
“We hope visitors enjoy their time
here and come back to explore more of what East Gippsland has to offer, including the trails at Omeo. I encourage locals and visitors to head up to Mount Taylor, support the riders, and enjoy the atmosphere.”
As anticipation builds towards race weekend, MTBEG looks forward to welcoming riders, families, volunteers, and spectators to Mount Taylor for another exciting round of the VDHS series. Whether you are a dedicated mountain biking fan or simply looking for a great day out, the club encourages the community to come along, enjoy the atmosphere, and support the athletes as they take on one of Victoria’s premier downhill tracks.
