Published on Monday, 12 October 2026 at 10:55:35 AM
The Shire of Nannup is celebrating the successful delivery of the 2026 UCI Gravel World Championships, welcoming thousands of visitors, athletes, support crews and spectators from across Australia and around the world.
As the first UCI Gravel World Championships held outside Europe, the event marked a significant milestone for Nannup, Western Australia and the South West region. The championships attracted 920 riders from 48 nations, including 158 elite athletes and 762 age-group competitors, who tested themselves on some of the world's most demanding and picturesque gravel terrain.
Activity across the town began well before race day, with a three-day expo, rider registrations and community activations creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout Nannup. Visitors embraced the opportunity to explore local businesses, accommodation providers and tourism experiences, delivering a positive economic boost for the community.
Across the championship weekend, competitors tackled rugged gravel roads, steep climbs, forestry tracks and private farmland, returning exhilarated by the challenge and beauty of the course. The event showcased not only world-class racing but also the hospitality, natural landscapes and community spirit that make Nannup a unique destination.
Shire of Nannup Deputy President Cr Vicki Hansen presented medals on Saturday, while Tourism Western Australia representative Sam Phillips participated in Sunday's podium presentations, recognising the achievements of the world's best gravel cyclists.
The championships also highlighted the growing importance of cycling tourism to the region. Visitors showed strong interest in Nannup's expanding trail network, with Tank 7 MTB Park and Pine Ridge MTB Park attracting significant attention from riders seeking information on mountain biking experiences, bike hire and future cycling holidays.
The championships also delivered a proud moment for the local community, with Nannup rider Paul Miller claiming victory in his age category and being the first rider across the finish line in his race. His outstanding performance on home roads was celebrated by spectators throughout the weekend and showcased the strength of the region's cycling community.
Paul's achievement added a special local highlight to an event that brought together amateur and elite athletes from around the world, inspiring both residents and visiting riders alike.
Shire of Nannup Deputy President Cr Vicki Hansen said the event had provided an unprecedented opportunity to showcase Nannup to a global audience.
"For a small regional town to successfully host a World Championship of this calibre is something our entire community should be incredibly proud of."
"Visitors experienced firsthand what makes Nannup special, from our spectacular forests and landscapes to the genuine country hospitality of our residents and businesses. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many visitors already planning their return."
"As Western Australia's newest Trail Town, this event has given us an invaluable platform to showcase our growing reputation as an adventure and nature-based tourism destination. The interest in our trail experiences, particularly Tank 7 MTB Park and Pine Ridge MTB Park, demonstrates the significant opportunities that cycling tourism presents for our region."
"Most importantly, this event showed what can be achieved when a community comes together. Nannup welcomed the world with professionalism, pride and enthusiasm, and that legacy will continue long after the final rider crossed the finish line."
The successful hosting of the UCI Gravel World Championships is a testament to the dedication of event organisers, volunteers, emergency services, local businesses, landowners, government agencies and the wider community who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.
The Shire of Nannup extends its sincere thanks to the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), Cycling Eventures, Tourism Western Australia, event partners, sponsors, volunteers and the entire Nannup community for helping deliver a world-class event that has proudly showcased Nannup on the international stage.
The event leaves a lasting legacy for Nannup, strengthening the town's position as a premier cycling and outdoor adventure destination and demonstrating the capacity of regional communities to deliver world-class experiences.
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