General News
23 January, 2026
Biking event revealed
A NEW downhill and cross-country Olympic cycling event is to take the place of the cancelled Crankworx series at the Smithfield Mountain Bike Park in April.
AusCycling revealed the 2026 Oceania Continental Series Finale this week as a humble replacement to Crankworx –which drew rave global reviews but was cancelled last year after agreement failed between festival organisers, AusCycling and Tourism Events Queensland.
Featuring the finale of the UCI Oceania Continental Series in both downhill and cross-country Olympic (XCO), the event will also be part of the AusCycling National Series, providing racing opportunities for junior riders across disciplines.
AusCycling’s major events spokesman Steve Peterson said the creation of this event reflected strong, sustained demand from the mountain bike community.
“We are excited to establish a new event that will bring high-quality Continental Series racing to the region, taking advantage of the world-class trails and facilities that Cairns has to offer,” he said.
Elite downhill racer Mick Hannah, of Cairns, said “it was huge”.
“It’s huge to see Cairns locked in as the Oceania Continental Series finale,” Mr Hannah said.
“From a downhill perspective, this venue is as legit as it gets – steep, raw, technical and demanding in exactly the way modern World Cup tracks are. Having a race like this on home soil gives our riders a proper benchmark before heading into the international season.
“Cairns has a long history with elite level downhill and this event gives the next generation a chance to test themselves on a truly world-class track.”
Queensland assistant tourism minister Bree James said the event had an estimated economic impact of $2.4 million for Queensland, drawing visitors, filling hotel room and supporting local jobs.
“We proudly welcome this new mountain biking event to Cairns an opportunity to showcase Tropical North Queensland to the world.”
Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive officer Mark Olsen welcomed the addition of the Oceania Continental Series Finale to further grow adventure tourism and the region’s sporting calendar.
“A dedicated mountain biking event in April will help to bring visitors to Tropical North Queensland in the shoulder season and continue our reputation for exciting sporting events that bring both competitors and spectators to the destination,” he said.
Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said the finale would deliver meaningful benefits for the local community, both during the event and well beyond it.
