Australia’s biggest one-day bike ride returns on Sunday 18 October 2026, bringing families, first-timers, workplaces and cycling legends together for Melbourne’s most iconic ride.
United Energy Around the Bay has officially launched for 2026, with AFL great James Hird, his daughter Steph Hird, Olympic champion and cycling superstar Grace Brown, and Bicycle Network’s charity partners coming together to encourage more Victorians to take on Melbourne’s most famous bike ride.
From the family-friendly Lap the Track ride at Albert Park, where kids under 15 ride free, through to the 50km, 100km, 135km Geelong start and the classic 220km loop, the event, now in its 32nd year, continues to be one of Victoria’s great mass-participation traditions.
United Energy General Manager Scott Russell said: “At United Energy, we know that some things are essential – staying connected, supporting our communities and helping people live healthier lives.
We’re proud to back an event that gives everyday cyclists, corporate teams, families, and first-time riders a shared sense of purpose – getting active, riding together and making a meaningful contribution to causes that touch almost every Australian family.”
This year, Bicycle Network is proud to partner with six charities whose missions align closely with our vision of helping more people ride for their health and wellbeing. The 2026 charity partners include:
- Variety – Bikes for Kids, helping children experience the freedom of riding through the gift of a bike
- Diabetes Victoria, supporting the 1.3 million Victorians impacted by or at high risk of diabetes and promoting the critical role physical activity plays in prevention and long-term health
- Beyond Blue, highlighting the link between riding and mental wellbeing
- Stroke Foundation, promoting stroke prevention and recovery through physical activity
- Cancer Council Victoria, championing sun safety, cancer prevention and the benefits of exercise before and after diagnosis
- Very Special Kids, supporting children with life-limiting conditions.
Bicycle Network CEO Alison McCormack said United Energy Around the Bay remains one of the most powerful celebrations of bike riding in Australia.
“United Energy Around the Bay is more than a ride. It’s a Melbourne ritual,” she said.
“This year we’re especially excited to have James and Steph Hird involved, alongside Grace Brown and our charity partners. Their involvement shows exactly what this event is about; family, challenge, purpose and getting more people riding more often.
“Greater Melbourne, this is your ride.”
Former Essendon champion and coach James Hird said: “I’ve been involved in a lot of big sporting moments, but this is a different kind of challenge.
“What I love about Around the Bay is that it isn’t just for elite riders. It’s for families, friends, workplaces and people who want to give themselves something to aim for.
“To be able to be part of it with my daughter Steph makes it even more special. We’re looking forward to getting out there, doing the training and being part of a great Melbourne event.”
“This is something Dad and I can do together, which makes it really meaningful,” Steph Hird added.
“Whether you’re riding 50km, 100km or just getting out there for the first time, I think it’s a great reminder that cycling can be social, healthy and fun. I’m really excited to be part of it.”
Olympic champion and Paris Gold Medalist Grace Brown added: “United Energy Around the Bay is such an iconic event because it gives everyone a reason to ride.
“You don’t have to be a professional cyclist to set yourself a big goal. For some riders, that might be their first 50km. For others, it might be the full 220km loop. That’s what makes this event so special.”
Early Bird entries are now open for United Energy Around the Bay 2026. 100km+ participants receive a free $110 RRP event jersey and kids under 15 ride free in the family (Lap the Track) and 50km rides.
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