2. 2012 / Cycling Australia Annual Report
2012 Annual Report of the
Australian Cycling Federation Inc.
trading as Cycling Australia.
3. Official Sponsor & Partner Major Partner
Official Vehicle Partner Official Category Partner
Supporting Organisations & Affiliates
Sponsors & Official Suppliers
4. 2012 / Cycling Australia Annual Report
Contents
06 President 48 Major Event Reports
08 Australian Sports Commission 58 Record of Merit
09 Chief Executive Officer 66 Financial Reports
12 Membership Table 78 2012 Results Summary – Domestic
14 Department Reports 98 2012 Results Summary
– International
24 Commission Reports
32 Affiliate Reports
5. 2012 / Cycling Australia Annual Report
Message from the
President
Road World Championships: there were again a number of standout
performances resulting in three silver and one bronze medal with
the highlight being Rachel Neylan’s second place in an exciting elite
women’s road race.
Orica GreenEDGE: It was an important milestone for Australian cycling
to welcome the first ever Australian based world professional team
underwritten by Gerry Ryan and the Jayco Corporation. Both men’s
and women’s teams had outstanding debut seasons capped by Simon
Gerrans taking out one of the grand ‘classics’, the Milan San Remo.
BMX: Our elite BMX athletes also had an outstanding year finishing
with the #1 UCI ranking for both men and women, two world
2012 has been a challenging year in some respects, but overall one of championships and our first Olympic medal, silver to Sam Willoughby.
great achievements for Cycling Australia.
Commercial Venture: The Commercial Venture completed its second
2012 was in fact, the pinnacle of the best four years of international year with an impressive level of progress under the leadership of
performance by Australian cycling in our history. Commercial Director, Michael Edgley. I also acknowledge the significant
contribution and ongoing confidence in Australian cycling we have
Our dominance of Track World Championships at senior and junior level enjoyed from our UK based partner, the Grass Roots Group.
and our rise as a force in road cycling coupled with our lead rankings
in BMX, Para-cycling and Mountain Bike Downhill Marathons, all The past twelve months has
unquestionably demonstrate the strength of Australian cycling across all
2012 was in fact, seen a consolidation of the
disciplines. The four year cycle was completed at the 2012 London Olym-
pic Games with our equal second best Olympic performance and then
the pinnacle of original projects; however
a major focus has been the
achieving #3 cycling nation at the Paralympic Games, two weeks later. the best four years development of a major events
strategy to provide a solid base
These and many other world class achievements were regrettably almost of international of assets upon which to grow
overshadowed by the media reaction to the USADA Reasoned Decision
regarding Lance Armstrong and the subsequent implications for cycling
performance by our commercial value.
at the elite world level; especially the men’s professional circuit during the Australian cycling A highlight was the roll-out
90’s and early 2000’s. Fighting doping takes large amounts of resources of the Subaru sponsorship
and we are proud of the culture and high ethical standard that has been in our history. enabling greater broadcast
applied to CA’s high performance programs and indeed throughout the content for the sport, which
whole of our administration of the sport in Australia. We have and will included an expanded
continue to fully co-operate with the Wood Review, recently announced relationship with long-time
by the Minister for Sport, and look forward to receiving his recommenda- partner SBS TV.
tions which will no doubt lead to the enhancement of CA’s anti-doping
policies and procedures. We have also increased the value of the commercial venture to
our cycling affiliates through provision of Subaru vehicles and new
Let me just mention a few of the key highlights from 2012. event and commercial partnerships with MTBA and the Amy Gillett
Foundation.
World Track Championship: conducted over Easter at the Hisense
Arena, this was a splendid event that showcased track cycling with We continued to invest CA resources, both financial HR, and expect to
wonderful results again for Australia as well as our expertise in event show a healthy return by the end of the next financial year.
delivery. For the first time in many years for a major event we returned a
surplus, part of which will go to facilities at the Darebin velodrome. Integration: Regrettably in April 2012 BMXA advised that it would
not proceed further at all levels with integration. Nevertheless CA
Olympic Games: I was enormously proud of all members of our team, continued to deliver improved administrative services to BMXA which
both on and off the bike. They performed very well; it’s just that the will hopefully encourage BMXA to re-engage with both CA and
British were exceptional. The British lifted the bar to another level, one MTBA in the integration process. In the interim the MTBA integration
that we must aim to better. Of course the stand out was the gold medal continued apace with pleasing progress, including the outsourcing of
won by Anna Meares in the sprint against Victoria Pendleton. event management to the Commercial Venture and progress with joint
membership initiatives. We continue to focus on integration at all levels
Paralympic Games: An outstanding performance by a well prepared in the cycling sector and State bodies, in particular, will be critical for the
team with 13 of the 14 athletes returning home with a medal. Program future success of this process.
Manager, Peter Day, was subsequently named Coach of the Year by the
Australian Paralympic Committee.
6
6. Part 2/ Commission Reports
Government Sponsor support: Our success on the bike could not Acknowledgements
be achieved without the support of Federal and State Governments, I would like to commend the great job by Graham Fredericks and his
State event corporations and commercial partners. Of particular staff in promoting the sport by providing pathways from grass roots to
note is the ongoing funding provided by our principal partner the elite. We have much to be proud of and will be a better organisation
Australian Sports Commission (ASC). Through the ASC the government after the current challenges are faced.
continues to provide generous support for our high performance and
participation programs. Additionally this year, we received funding to A report like this can never do justice to the multitude of people
address the housing issue for our high performance administrative and and organisations who contribute to making the sport great in
technical staff to allow for better communication and efficiency as they this country. To the State and Territory Associations, clubs, officials,
support the coaching staff and athletes within the Adelaide Super- coaches and volunteers who keep the sport running; thank you for a
Drome. Again, our heart-felt thanks to the Federal Minister for Sport, wonderful effort in 2012.
the Honourable Kate Lundy MP. I am sure that the confidence shown
in CA will be rewarded in 2013 and onwards to Rio. Klaus Mueller
President
The sport is also well supported by a number of commercial sponsors
but none more generous and valuable than Gerry Ryan, his family and
the Jayco Corporation, who provide significant assistance to our high
performance and athlete development programs.
I also acknowledge the generosity of Subaru, SBS, Grass Roots, ANPHA,
Santini, the Governments of Victoria and South Australia and the City
of Ballarat along with many other organisation we are very fortunate
to have supporting Cycling Australia.
7
7. 2012 / Cycling Australia Annual Report
Message from the
Australian Sports Commission
The Australian Government is committed to getting more Australians participating and
excelling in sport. Sport not only inspires and unites us as a nation, it also motivates us to
become involved and active.
The staging of the Olympic and Paralympic Games is an exciting time for all Australians, and
highlights the substantial contribution of sport to our community, from athletes competing at
the Games to those involved in weekend club competition and social play, as well as parents
and volunteers.
Australia’s performance at the London Olympic and Paralympic Games is the culmination of
extensive long-term efforts across the Australian high performance system. Following the
Games, there will be opportunities to celebrate the successes and critically review our next
steps to ensure we focus and align our efforts to deliver the best possible results in the next
Olympic and Paralympic cycle.
It is two years since the Australian Government delivered its new vision for sport in ‘Australian
Sport: The Pathway to Success’ and substantially increased ongoing funding to the Australian
Sports Commission. Since then, we have focused on implementing our new plans, delivering
key programs, supporting national sporting organisations (NSOs) to deliver participation and
high performance outcomes (as well as building their capacity), and building collaboration,
alignment and effectiveness within the Australian sport sector.
The announcement in the May 2012 Budget of the continuation of the Active After-school
Communities program will ensure we carry on providing primary school-aged children with
a positive introduction to sport. We will continue working with sporting organisations at all
levels to ensure the program provides maximum value to sports and supports the transition of
program paiticipants into local clubs.
Linked to the London Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Prime Minister’s Olympic and
Paralympic Challenges will encourage and inspire children to participate in sport and to get
active, have fun and earn rewards. This initiative, as well as participation funding programs
delivered by NSOs, continues the Australian Government’s commitment to ensuring more
people can access sport and all the benefits it provides.
The support received from the Australian Government for Australian sport is essential and plays
an integral role in connecting our young sporting participants with their dreams of podium
success in the future.
This is an exciting and challenging time for Australian sport. The Australian Sports Commission
looks forward to working with sporting organisations, state and territory institutes and
academies of sport, and state and territory departments of sport and recreation, to promote
access to, and participation in, sport across the community, and supporting Australia’s
continued sporting success.
Acting Chairman, Board of the Australian Sports Commission
30 June 2012
8
8. Message from the
Chief Executive Officer
The Olympic Games are a clear benchmark over a four-year cycle and
our return of 6 medals – 1 gold, 3 silver, 2 bronze – in London was
equal second to any previous Olympic performance by Australian
cycling. The highlights included a remarkable Gold medal to Anna
Meares in the Sprint , finishing #2 nation in Track medals and recording
Australia’s first ever BMX (Silver) medal.
The Paralympic Games that followed exceeded our expectations with
8 Gold, 3 Silver and 3 Bronze medals being brought home by what
was unquestionably the best prepared Para-cycling team Australia has
ever fielded.
Equally significant has been the phenomenal success at world junior
STRATEGIC PERFORMANCE REPORT level across all disciplines, again providing a basis for confidence in the
future.
For Cycling Australia, 2012 was a year of outstanding results on the
international stage, steady growth in membership and a consolidation Due to timing since the last publication, we have since celebrated
of financial and commercial activity. two winners of the Sir Hubert Opperman Trophy as Australian Cyclist
of the Year; Cadel Evans for 2011 and Anna Meares in 2012 – two
MEMBERSHIP outstanding athletes and ambassadors for Australian cycling.
CA membership grew to 23,266 in 2012, which reflected a 5.7% increase
from 2011. The total cycling sport sector membership, inclusive of all Sincere thanks to the Australian Sports Commission (principal partner)
disciplines, is now just under 40,000. Some of the trends within the and Jayco Corporation (major sponsor) for their resourcing of CA’s
membership figures included; national teams and programs. Much credit for our performances must
be given to the very talented group of national program coaches and
• Minimal movement in the core racing categories with the exception support staff, ably underpinned by a network of pathway coaches for
of U13s, with a 30%+ increase off a low base, and Masters, which again whom we should be especially proud. Special mention to National
grew impressively by 6.8%; Performance Director, Kevin Tabotta, who – along with Paul Brosnan,
• The Silver (non-competitive) membership category grew by 11.25%, General Manager, High Performance, has achieved remarkable
now totalling over 5,700 and representing nearly a quarter of total CA outcomes from our high performance programs in less than two years
members. at the helm.
A lot of work has continued to improve services for members. The 2012 was the inaugural year of Australia’s first world professional road
new IMG database was introduced in 2012 and despite some early team, Orica GreenEDGE. On top of a very successful entry into the
challenges synonymous with technology implementation, we are World Tour, the relationship established between OGE and our national
now starting to take advantage of a system with greater reporting and programs proved crucial for the development of our elite athletes and
functional capability. Staff numbers and staff training has also been a staff; and none more important than the establishment of a women’s
major focus of member services. trade team in partnership with the AIS.
Participation investment has been directed towards key projects in the RESOURCES
areas of developing school junior introductory programs, CA and BMXA Finance
sign-on days, on-line learning for coaching officiating, establishment of While consolidation and rationalisation were characteristic of 2012 in
the Silver calendar and projects targeting women and Para-cycling. financial terms, we were fortunate to end up with a satisfactory result
of $109,147 in surplus. This took the Balance Sheet back to just over
Progress is well underway for a member loyalty program and a national $630,000 in members’ assets.
ranking register in conjunction with our commercial venture. The risk
management review has also developed to a stage of readiness for roll- However, with the write-off of some bad debts, rationalisation of our
out in mid-2013. carry-over insurance provision and a reliance upon future return on
investment from commercial and event projects, our short term future
The above initiatives represent a significant investment in improving remains challenging, especially in terms of cash-flow as we head
the future CA environment to both attract new members and provide towards the final quarter of the 2012/13 financial year.
encouragement to retain existing members.
Operationally, the high performance department prepared well for
RESULTS an Olympic year with forward provisions covering the additional
The past four years has seen Australia emerge as a genuine force in anticipated expenses. General administrative operations felt the
international cycling. During this period, Australia has not dropped pressure of a growing membership and related service demands and
below a top 4 world ranking in Track, BMX, Road, MTB Downhill and it was pleasing that membership revenue increased by 20% from 2011;
Para-cycling. however, a portion of this was related to new database cost recovery.
9
9. 2012 / Cycling Australia Annual Report
Message from the
Chief Executive Officer
Insurance claims were well contained over the past 12 months although It is important to acknowledge the significant investment, support
a premium increase of up to 5% is envisaged for 2013 in addition to any and confidence placed in Cycling Australia by the Grass Roots Group.
improvement in benefits. The subsidised St Kilda Road office facility and the considerable work
invested in developing the anticipated member loyalty program, are
Management of major note. A very special thank you is extended to chairman, David
As the CA staff team has grown in recent years, so did the need for a Evans MBE (GBR) and GM Australia, Matt Seadon.
restructure at the senior level of the organisation. The key elements
of the new structure has been the establishment of a 4-department Principal Partner
structure with 3 also based on the geographical location of CA offices; The Australian Government through the Australian Sports Commission
• Chief Operating Officer (Sydney). Melinda Tarrant joined us in May and the Australian Institute of Sport continue the significant
2012. Heading up the Mascot head office, Melinda has brought relationship that is recognised by ‘principal partner’ status. In
a significant degree of experience and rigour to the finance and addition to the major contribution to the funding of our successful
membership operations in particular; high performance programs, national teams, and participation/
• National Performance Director (Adelaide). Kevin Tabotta has been development programs, Cycling Australia also benefited from funding
heading up the HP department working in tandem with General for the Women and Wheels program, an additional CA governance
Manager High Performance, Paul Brosnan, sharing the technical and development program and the proposed Adelaide office expansion
program management duties. project as well as the critical Green and Gold funding that assisted
• Commercial Director (Melbourne). Michael Edgley has also been final preparations for London. We gratefully acknowledge the support
leading the way with commercial and major event strategy for the past of Senator the Hon Kate Lundy, Minister for Sport, ASC CEO Simon
two years. Hollingsworth and our Senior Partnership Manager, James Selby.
• Head of Marketing and Communications. This is a new role being
recruited in early 2013. This role will be based in Melbourne in Sponsorship and Partnership
recognition of the volume of new work being generated by commercial Again, a very special thank you is directed to the Jayco Corporation
activity; however, the staff team will be located throughout each office. and by extension, GreenEdge Cycling (GEC). Gerry and Andrew
Ryan have continued to be very important supporters of Australian
I also take this opportunity to recognise the exceptional contribution cycling over many years and their current investment in the CA high
of Gennie Sheer over more than a decade. Her role in the performance programs, feeder pathway programs and major cycling
Communications area has grown exponentially in recent times, events enable so much to be achieved within cycling in Australia.
especially in an Olympic year.
CA is fortunate to enjoy the support of a wide range of corporate
On the next tier of management, Sean Muir moved into the Sport and government supporters. All these people are acknowledged
Manager role with Brendan Moriarty retaining leadership of the Sport and thanked hereafter; however in 2012 there are a few that should
Development programs. In Melbourne, we welcomed Paul McVeigh be individually recognised. To Andrew Caie from Subaru, Ken Shipp
to the Commercial Management Acountant role this year while the SBS, the Victorian Government, City of Ballarat, South Australian
position of General Manager Events has been earmarked for recruitment Government, ANPHA, Santini, BT Bikes, Scott, Shimano and the many
when resources allow. others, we extend our genuine appreciation and thanks; we could not
achieve what we do without them.
Commercial Program
2012 was a year of genuine consolidation for the commercial program ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND THANKS
with initial projects such as the Bike Expo and CA Tours showing solid Hosting a world championships is always a great honour and in 2012
growth trends along with an expanding broadcast product. The roll I am proud to say that CA presented one of the best ever UCI Track
out of the Subaru sponsorship, extension of the SBS partnership, Cycling World Championships at Melbourne Park over Easter. The
acquiring of the ANPHA sponsorship and establishing an office base in organisation was exceptional, the Australian athletes were on fire and
Melbourne, were highlights. the public came and supported us. A special thanks to the Organising
Committee Chair Malcolm Speed, Event Director Trudy Lindblade, and
However, the most important progress for the year was in the the whole team behind them.
formulation and preliminary implementation of a major event
strategy; negotiations with MTBA, Caribou Promotions, State Event I again take this opportunity to acknowledge the many volunteers,
Corporations and the UCI are all starting to take shape and form officials, clubs and promoters who regularly deliver our sport to our
a platform for a long term asset base. The operations of Australian members. Your contribution is critical and your efforts are greatly
Cycling Events P/L as a separate entity have been wound back as appreciated. To our principal affiliates the State associations, BMXA and
event operations are now linked within commercial operations. MTBA, congratulations on another year successfully promoting our
sport. Many of these people can be recognised in the contributions to
CA has invested significantly into the commercial program and much this annual report; I thank them all and commend their reports.
reliance is now place on its future returns. At this stage we are pleased To the entire CA staff team all over Australia and often, all over the
to report that detailed predictive financial modelling, conservatively world: you now total in excess of 70 on a permanent basis and
based on contracted revenue and known expenditure, indicates a represent an incredible body of talent, capacity and passion for
projected return to surplus in the latter half of 2013. Australian cycling. Thank you.
10
10. In conclusion, I acknowledge the tireless efforts of the Board of Cycling Mavic – supply of wheels to the Australian track team
Australia. It can be an onerous role and it is important we all recognise Vittoria – provision of tyres to national and AIS cycling squads and
their commitment and dedication under the leadership of President, teams
Klaus Mueller. I especially thank Tracey Gaudry and Stephen Hodge for
their service, after having both stepped down from the Board this year. Shimano – supply of bike componentry to national programs
sponsor of CA Awards
Graham Fredericks Sheppard Cycles (Giro) – helmet sponsor of high performance
Chief Executive Officer
programs
Casco – helmet sponsor of professional track trade team
Singapore Airlines – supporting airline of CA high performance
2012 Sponsors and Supporters programs national teams
Enviro Bike Boxes – bike and equipment box sponsor of CA high
Australian Sports Commission Australian Institute of Sport – performance programs
Principal Sponsor and Partner
Wattbike Australia – stationary bike sponsor of CA high performance
Jayco – major sponsor of CA national teams high performance programs
programs, men’s road continental team, professional track women’s
road trade teams, and Cyclist of the Year Awards Tioga – sponsor of national BMX program
Australian Olympic Committee – funding team to Games; VSI – sponsor of national BMX program
international competition funding Aussie Butt Cream – product sponsor to national and AIS cycling
Australian Paralympic Committee – funding team to Games: squads
program competition funding Thomson – product sponsor of national BMX and track programs
Subaru – major sponsor and vehicle supplier to Cycling Australia Jetset Glynde – CA Awards Night sponsor and high performance
Australian National Preventive Health Agency – major sponsor programs’ support
of Cycling Australia, promoting “Be the Influence”. Carman’s Foods – product supply to Australian national teams
SBS Television – Broadcast partner and commercial partner for Bike Morgan Blue – product supply to Australian national teams
Lifestyle Show and CA Tour program
KooGa Australia – official supplier of casual clothing to national
Grass Roots Group – commercial partner and major supporter programs
Australian Commonwealth Games Association – Funding for elite
and junior national team preparation
Victorian Government – major partner of the 2012 Track World
Championships
South Australian Government – Support of the Cycling Australia
National Track Championships and the Tour Down Under
City of Ballarat – host partner of the Cycling Australia National Road
Championships
GreenEDGE – support of Cycling Australia high performance
programs
SKINS – Official compression recovery garment supplier
SMS Santini – supplier of clothing for Australian Cyclones national
teams, men’s continental team and professional track trade team
MARS – major sponsor of the CA Road National Championships
Scody – supplier of clothing to the Para-cycling program
Mapei – high performance programs’ sponsor
Bike Technology (BT) – sponsor of bikes for the Australian track team
Scott Bikes – supply of road bikes to the men’s continental team, AIS
women’s road team, women’s track endurance team and the track
sprint team
11
13. 2012 / Cycling Australia Annual Report
High Performance Program
Program Overview and Sam Willoughby, respectively, were room, physical therapies treatment and
In close collaboration with the National significant achievements for the BMX HP consultation rooms.
Institute Network (NIN), Cycling Australia’s Program.
High Performance Unit (HP) strives to provide At the beginning of 2012, the BMX HPP
an elite sporting environment with world Road (High Performance Program) was inducted
leading coaching, equipment, sport science, The much-anticipated debut of an Australian as an AIS scholarship camps-based program
service staff support and welfare to assist UCI World Tour team did not disappoint housed within the newly extended and
athletes pursuing Para-cycling, BMX, Road with GreenEDGE claiming the first major refurbished AIS Pizzey Park facility on the
and Track disciplines to achieve sustainable classic of the season, Milan San Remo, with Gold Coast. This provided the program
success on the international stage and Simon Gerrans. Rachel Neylan’s silver medal with much-needed access to office space,
become ambassadors for our sport. winning ride in the elite women’s World Road training/sport science facilities, storage and
Race Championship was one of the biggest other in-kind services.
National Performance Director, Kevin surprises to book-end the year.
Tabotta and General Manager – High Initiatives and Plans
Performance, Paul Brosnan, oversee the Olympic Review – against podium With the London Olympics behind us, and
overall management and direction of the plan as we enter into a new quadrennial cycle,
HP unit, closely monitored by CA’s CEO, the HP programs are currently undergoing a
Graham Fredericks. Additionally, in 2009, CA 2012 Olympic Target: 8 Medals – 3 Gold comprehensive and thorough 360° review.
appointed a panel of Australian sporting Actual: 6 Medals – 1 Gold, 2 HP management will be consulting all
experts to form a High Performance Advisory Silver, 3 Bronze stakeholders to develop a new 2013-16 High
Group (HPAG) to provide high-end strategic Performance Strategic Plan, to be endorsed
input into the HP Program operations. 2012 Paralympic Target: 10 Medals – 3 Gold, 4 by the CA Board.
Silver, 3 Bronze
Although medal-winning performances at Actual: 14 Medals – 6 Gold, Despite Australian cycling’s successes in
the London Olympic and Paralympic Games 4 Silver, 4 Bronze 2012, the rest of the world is catching up,
were a clear priority in 2012, respective with the British system clearly now setting
discipline International Cycling Union (UCI) Resources the benchmark.
World Championships and World Cups are The resources provided to the HP athletes,
a major focus every year, and 2012 was no coaches and staff are varied and numerous. The Strategic Plan is a working document to
exception. For example, athletes who train at the be referenced and realigned on a needs basis
Adelaide velodrome and Pizzey Park have to guide HP resources and activities optimally
Performance Highlights access to state-of-the-art recovery centres, in order to achieve identified annual World
(excludes Para-cycling and Junior U19s – made possible by Australian Institute of Sport Championship and 2016 Rio Olympic medal
refer separate reports) (AIS) capital works funding. HP athletes in targets, whilst ensuring the underpinning
Producing nine Olympic medallists and ten Italy have access to the European Training pathway for Australian cycling’s sustained
elite World Champions (8 track/2 BMX), 2012 Centre (AIS ETC) in Varese, Italy, and a success on the international stage i.e. a
should be considered a successful year for residential base in Castronno, Italy, which business model.
Australian cycling. allows for their exposure to international
competition. Relationships with universities Staffing
Olympic Games and external organisations allow for We have become a big business. CA now
Anna Meares winning Olympic gold in collaborative research, which provides CA directly employs 24 full-time HP staff,
the women’s sprint and Sam Willoughby not only with additional resources but also with an additional 9 full-time cycling staff
claiming the first Olympic medal (Silver) for access to world leaders in areas such as employed by the AIS. The HP unit contracts
Australian BMX were standout achievements aerodynamics. an additional 20+ staff on a part-time/
in London. casual basis to provide specialist support
Facilities e.g. soigneurs, mechanics, sport science,
Track The CA HP unit has grown significantly over mechanics, team managers.
The men’s team sprint gold medal winning the past four years in particular. Recently, the
ride at the World Championships in ASC very generously committed substantial Acknowledgements Thanks
Melbourne was a breakthrough performance capital works funding to CA to construct
for the HP Sprint Program. Equally Glenn a semi-permanent office building within Partnerships
O’Shea claiming gold in the men’s Omnium the Adelaide Super-Drome precinct. The The HP unit has a number of valuable
and Anna Meares in women’s Keirin were completion date for the new facility is April major organisations and sponsors, who
highlight performances in Melbourne. 2013 and it will provide increased office provide significant financial support,
space for administration and coaching namely, Jayco, NIN (AIS SIS/SAS), Australian
BMX staff. The current space occupied by the Commonwealth Games Association (ACGA),
Elite World Championship and overall UCI HP unit will be reconfigured to conduct Australian Olympic Committee (AOC)
World Cup titles for Caroline Buchanan support services activities such as an ergo and the Australian Sports Commission
14
14. Part 1/ Department Reports
(ASC). Additionally there are many
corporate partners who support the HP
programs, including but not limited to: Bike
Technologies (BT), Santini, Shimano, Scott
Bicycles and GreenEDGE. Without their
commitment Australian cycling cannot
sustain its reputation as an envied world
leader.
On behalf of the high performance unit, we
would like to express our appreciation for the
commitment and world-class contribution
made by all CA/AIS staff, program sponsors
and partner stakeholders. Their collaborative
efforts have helped to raise the profile of
our sport and are imperative to sustain the
ongoing success of Australian cycling on the
international stage.
Kevin Tabotta
National Performance Director
Paul Brosnan
General Manager High Performance
15
15. 2012 / Cycling Australia Annual Report
Para-cycling Program
Program Overview for program coaches and staff to witness – planned that following the Segovia World
The Para-cycling program is integrated with certainly a case study for any aspiring athlete. Cup, our Paralympic road riders would attend
Cycling Australia High Performance Programs the training at Brands Hatch. In cooperation
and works cooperatively with Cycling Australia’s Facilities with the APC and the AIS we were able to
Coaching and Development department and A training camp was held in Adelaide carry out individual road course profiling
respective Commissions regarding Para-cycling prior to departure to the Los Angeles and video for the athletes to use during their
development, national level events and World Championships. It was an excellent home based ergo sessions. I am sure this
international competition. opportunity for the athletes to experience the initiative proved very successful as we review
high performance environment and services our performances from the ITT’s: Gold – C.
With the London Paralympics being the offered whilst training alongside other Cooke Trike, Gold – D. Nicholas C3, Silver – S.
priority focus for the program in 2012, the national track endurance and sprint team Powell (C4) Silver – N. Barley H3 Hand-cycle,
Los Angeles Track World Championships was members. and Bronze – M. Gallagher C5.
specifically targeted as it was the only track
event in 2012 to secure additional Paralympic In cooperation with the APC and the Staffing
qualification points prior to the 13 February Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), the All program staff continued from last year
cut-off. program effectively used the AIS in Canberra with their full commitment through to the
for a holistic sports medicine camp. Every Paralympics with a deliberate strategy of
All program athletes and staff agreed to potential team member, along with several continuity that would ensure an ease of
operate with a Believe / Behave / Belong identified potential athletes, had individual understanding for all athletes and staff. Sarah
commitment and a ‘Whole of Team’ appointments or reviews to address their Jack attended a number of national level
acceptance of what is needed to be achieved personal preparation (medicine, nutrition, events prior to travelling with the team to Los
and how every athlete and staff member was biomechanical, physiotherapy, psychology Angeles for the Track World Championships.
expected to contribute. and recovery). This initiative proved successful in breaking
down any potential barriers for athletes as we
Performance Highlights As part of the team’s preparation for London, progressed towards London.
The team exceeded expectations at the the endurance group again embarked on
Track World Championships in Los Angeles an European training and competition block Paul Brosnan – High Performance Manager
winning eight gold, three silver and three that included the Rome Road World Cup and Murray Lydeamore – Team Manager
bronze medals and breaking one world the Segovia Road World Cup. Included in this Peter Day – Performance Director/Head Coach
record. Very importantly, the team gained trip were two development hand-cyclists and Danielle Gillis – Program coordinator
valuable qualification points towards a male trike rider. The initial group trained in Tom Skulander – Development co/Asst Nat
qualification places for the Paralympics. Italy and used the facilities of the European Coach
Training Centre before competitions in Anouska Edwards – International Classifier/
Having qualified for 12 Paralympic slots, six Switzerland, Italy and Spain. Physio
men and six female (six single bikes, three Jenni Banks – Handcycle coordinator
tandems, two handcycles and one trike), the In preparation for London, the APC Alan Downes – Massage Therapist
team also achieved better than expected conducted a team staging in Cardiff, Wales, Paul Martens – Coach
results at the Paralympics winning six gold, to ensure the best preparation. Prior to Sarah Jack – Psychologist
four silver and four bronze medals and entering the village, they coordinated Alison Campbell (APC) – Sports Medicine
breaking five world records. a parallel staging for our cycling team coordinator
using the Newport Velodrome and local Peter Giessauf, Mike Winter, Dan Brent
Of special mention is the hand-cycling accommodation. With Cardiff only 20 Tom Borger – Mechanics
initiative implemented in 2011: the Australian minutes away, we were able to fully use any
Paralympic Committee (APC) supported support staff associated with Cardiff. Acknowledgements Thanks
a special initiative request for funding to Sincere thanks to Bernard Schreiber and his
support equipment and the position of a Because of the identified lack of training team from SCODY for their ongoing support
part time Hand-cycle Coordinator. Jenni environments for our two selected hand- of the program and their development of
Banks headed up the Hand-cycling discipline cyclists and trike rider around Newport the competition garments we used at the
and it was really pleasing to note that and the village, they returned to Southern Paralympics.
Nigel Barley winning silver in the H3 Men’s France where our team had trained before
Paralympic Time Trial was Australia’s first ever the Segovia World Cup for their final training All athletes and staff are extremely
Paralympic Hand-cycle medal. and staging preparations prior to joining the appreciative of the APC’s management and
remainder of the team in the village. staff for their tireless work regarding every
Another highlight was Carol Cooke winning aspect of assisting with preparation in the
gold in the combined men’s and women’s Initiatives and Plans lead-up to and while in London. Jason
factored trike event. Carol’s commitment The International Cycling Union (UCI) initiated Hellwig and everyone associated with
and dedication to address every possible a Come and Try Day for Brands Hatch, the operational matters are to be congratulated
aspect of her preparation was very pleasing venue for the Paralympic road events. It was on their outstanding contribution towards
16
16. Part 1/ Department Reports
the overall success of the team in London. Thanks to the state associations, their Thanks also to Graham Fredericks and
Thanks and recognition go to Alison commissaires and volunteers for conducting CA Board of Management, the High
Campbell. Her attention to detail and events for Para-cyclists. Without their Performance management team and all staff
subsequent action regarding identified issues continued commitment, there would be members who assisted with the operations
concerning athletes proved invaluable for little or no competition opportunities for of the Para-cycling program.
several of our highest achievers. Para-cyclists.
A big team thank you to Danielle Gillis, HPP It has been especially pleasing to note Peter Day
coordinator and Murray Lydeamore who the progressing initiatives and working Para-cycling Performance Director
was Team Manager throughout 2010, 2011 relationships being developed by CA’s
and 2012. Murray’s appointment as Para- Development department and the
cycling Section Manager ensured continued APC’s National and State Development
efficient and effective managerial operations coordinators. I would also like to recognise
with both CA and the APC regarding all those SIS / SAS and their coaches who
Paralympic requirements. actively support the HPP Para-cycling
program.
17
17. 2012 / Cycling Australia Annual Report
Commercial Events
In the period Cycling Australia Commercial An integrated long term strategy has been At the same time we completed an
Events (CACE) (previously known as Commercial developed encompassing the disciplines of agreement with Caribou Events to transition
Joint Venture) has invested heavily in devel- Road, Track and Mountain Bike across a full the commercial and event delivery rights
oping our commercial strategies, building our spectrum of events, including: to all Victorian based National Road Series
resource base and securing initial foundation • World Championship, Cup, Tour Classic cycling events.
partnerships which will underpin our future • Regional Championship Tour events
prosperity. • National Championship, Multi-leg Series We will now deliver annually six elite domes-
Tour events tic road cycling events from 1 January 2013
The CACE operates in three broad areas; • Participation events providing a select suite of event inventory
1. Partnerships which will fund and retain elite cycling event
2. Events The objectives of this strategy are to: delivery resources internally and provide a base
3. Member Loyalty A. Secure long term rights to major cycling for which the international event strategy can
events be scaled up to activate/deliver the anticipated
Partnerships B. Exploit these major event rights via targeting future international events pipeline.
CACE has developed and implemented Australian State and Regional Governments
a national partner program which is a C. Maximise the profile, impact benefits CACE reached in principle agreement with
combination of existing CA inventory and (direct indirect commercial advantage) for the Amy Gillett Foundation (AGF) to continue
newly developed and leveraged CACE assets. cycling to deliver the AGF’s major event “Amy’s Gran
D. Create long term legacies for cycling in Fondo” Lorne, Victoria which is a closed road
Prior to deploying the national partnership Australia participation event for 4,000 people. This
strategy the CACE renegotiated and agreement also includes the CACE integrating
extended our exclusive broadcast agreement After engagement and consultation with the AGF assets into our commercial offering and
with Australian free to air broadcaster Special UCI, CA will: developing a new business model for the
Broadcasting Service (SBS), creating a suite A. Hold the relevant rights from sanctioning promotion and delivery of its suite of “Amy’s
of new Cycling Australia owned content that bodies and/or rights owners; and Ride” events (participation events promoted
forms the nucleus of the national partner B. Enter relevant funding, hosting and related under the AGF brand).
program. agreements with the relevant governments,
venues and service providers in Australia to The CACE plans to transition the “Amy’s
In the period CACE has secured multiyear deliver an integrated program of major cycling Ride” model from the current third party
category exclusive national partnership events. event promoters to a model that shares the
arrangements with global automotive brand revenue base of these events with CA affiliate
Subaru and Federal Government entity, CA has briefed the government owned event state federations. This will assist to maximise
Australian National Preventative Health companies and key government represent- the economies of scale in delivering
Agency (ANPHA). These partnerships have atives in each of the major Australian states nationwide “Amy’s Ride” events and assist
underpinned the financial performance / regions (Governments) on the growth of state cycling federations to connect with the
of the CACE in the formative stages of our cycling in Australia, the CACE and CA’s vision for broader cycling community by leveraging
enterprise. major cycling events in Australia. from the power and reach of the AGF brand.
The CACE aims to secure new category All states are actively engaged and have asked The CACE also reached agreement with
exclusive national partnerships building on to be offered the opportunity to ‘express Mountain Bike Australia (MTBA) to manage
the program that has been developed. interest’ in hosting major events in one or more the rights and event delivery of all MTBA
cycling disciplines. national series and championship events,
A number of non-category exclusive a key platform to commercialise this sector
partnerships have been reached with various Development of Domestic Major Events backed in by the international UCI World Cup
entities including but not limited to; Strategy: and Championship events on offer via our
- Velosure Insurance The CACE is leveraging the interest from MTB EOI process as detailed above.
- myBikeREGO Regional and State Governments EOI pro-
- Velosophy (BikeShow vendor cooperation cesses to secure support and funding for CA’s Member Loyalty
agreement) domestic major events inventory especially in During the period Grass Roots continued
- KooGa (event based merchandise support the areas of road, track and mountain bike. the strategic development, program partner
agreement) recruitment and technology build phase of
In the period the CACE returned the Cycling CA’s future Member Loyalty portal.
Events Australia Road National Championships in
Development of International Major Events house by completing a three + two (5) year Michael Edgley
Strategy: agreement with Regional Victorian Govern- Commercial Director
At the core of our events activity is the ment Agency Ballarat Regional Tourism (BRT).
development and deployment of our
International Major Events Strategy.
18
18. Part 1/ Department Reports
Australian Cycling Events
The final event conducted under the banner of Australian Cycling Eleven international broadcast networks covered the event providing both
Events (ACE) was the 2012 UCI Track Cycling World Championships, live and delayed coverage as well as highlight packages. The event at-
which were staged at Melbourne’s Hisense Arena in April. The event tracted 253 hours of airtime; double that of 2011. The total audience reach
attracted entries from 41 countries and more than 28,000 spectators was almost 200 million, a figure boosted by news programs in the UK and
attended during the five days of competition. Germany reporting on the success of their respective national teams.
Medal Table Hisense Arena
Melbourne Olympic Parks Trust, the owner of Hisense Arena, invested
Nation Gold Silver Bronze Total capital funds to upgrade the velodrome prior to the event to meet
Australia 6 6 3 15 current UCI requirements. These capital works included sanding the
entire track surface that helped riders post fast times. The capital works
Great Britain 6 4 3 13
provide a significant legacy. Cycling Australia extends its thanks to
Germany 2 2 1 5 Lloyd Freeburn, Director Infrastructure Services and his team for their
tremendous work to provide a world-class track.
Athlete Representation
Sponsorship
The Championships hosted 306 athletes (190 men and 116 women)
The 2012 World Championships would not have been possible without
from 41 countries across ten sessions of racing, with 16 nations
the generous support of our event sponsors, in particular the contribu-
winning medals. The standard of competition was extremely high and
tion by the State Government of Victoria. Other event partners were:
by the end of the event five new world records were ratified.
Cycling Australia, Subaru, Mars, Jayco, City of Melbourne and Ballarat
Regional Tourism. Official suppliers included Jump Media Marketing,
World Records Lanier, Coca Cola and Samsung, while SBS was the official media partner.
Date Event Nation/Athlete Volunteers
4 April 2012 Men’s 4000m team pursuit Great Britain As with all major events volunteers play an integral role in the contri-
bution to the overall success of the event. The 2012 track worlds had a
4 April 2012 Women’s team sprint Germany total workforce of 375 people with 34% being volunteers. Volunteer roles
5 April 2012 Women’s 3000m team pursuit Great Britain included customer service, drivers, athlete services and medal ceremony
5 April 2012 Women’s flying 200m Anna Meares hosts. Volunteers worked approximately 3,900 hours across the event.
The Organising Committee sincerely thanks all the volunteers for their
8 April 2012 Women’s standing 500m Anna Meares
contribution to the success of the event.
Media Publicity Acknowledgements Thanks
One of the measures of the success of the event was the high level of In closing I would like to thank Malcolm Speed for undertaking the role
media coverage generated. During the Championships track cycling of Chairman of the Advisory Board and the Advisory Board members
twice claimed the front page of Melbourne’s The Age newspaper. who guided the Organising Committee during the planning and delivery
of the event.
The event website 2012trackworlds.com.au attracted 64,000 unique visits
with more than 315,000 page views recorded. I would also like to acknowledge the International Cycling Union, Victori-
an Major Events Company and the State Government of Victoria for their
Social media was a key promotional tool with Facebook and Twitter ongoing support of Cycling Australia’s major events strategy to secure
accounts actively used in the lead up to and during the event. Around World Championship and World Cup events.
1500 users logged on to the live blog during sessions. Activity during the
championships was unparalleled with the viral reach (page impressions, Major events play a significant role in strengthening the brand of cycling
discussions, comments, likes, mentions and re-tweets) well in excess of in the local community by providing an opportunity for members,
one hundred thousand on each day of the Championships. cycling enthusiasts and sports fans to see the best in the world in their
own backyard.
The media team initiated a successful viral campaign using USB-Man,
a branded figurine that was included in the media welcome bag. This The final thanks goes to the members of the Organising Committee
creative campaign provided a look behind the scenes of the event and whose dedication hard work, aided by support from Cycling Australia
generated online discussion via social media. and Cycling Victoria staff, ensured that an event of the highest standard
was delivered and reinforced Cycling Australia’s reputation for staging
SBS continued their support of cycling with excellent coverage of the world class international events.
event including live coverage of all evening sessions on SBS2, a one hour
highlights show on SBS1 and live streaming of all sessions via the Cycling
Central website platform. Ratings indicate the share for SBS2 was double Trudy Lindblade
the usual average. Event Director
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19. 2012 / Cycling Australia Annual Report
Coaching, Development and Participation
The Cycling Australia Sport Development AustCycle CycleSkill coaching course and is aimed at
Department continues to increase the The Sport Development Department is those who want to develop and advance their
number of accredited coaches across all establishing a clear strategic direction that rider’s mountain biking skills.
disciplines. There is now full integration of integrates AustCycle into Cycling Australia’s
BMX and mountain bike coach education (CA) Coaching Pathway, whereby teaching BMX
with road and track, and provision of both safety through bike handling and traffic skills At the start of 2012, an introductory level BMX
generic and discipline-specific support is the entry level (first step) to introducing coaching course was launched and has been
to new and existing coaches across all and growing community participation in extremely well received by clubs nationwide.
disciplines. In addition, there is an increased cycling. It is aimed at those who want to coach
focus on development through the children and beginner level adult BMX riders
National Junior Track Series and other new Recent developments with the CA Partici- to develop and advance their riding skills on a
participation initiatives. pation Plan, discussions with the Australian BMX track.
Sports Commission (ASC) and internal
Personnel consideration to change the scope of the Cy- Professional Development Opportunities
As a result of a recent Sport Department cleSkill course to re-include entry-level road (PDO)
re-structure, Rob Leggett will be moving environments, have all contributed to a review PDO’s delivered at National Championships
from the Sport Development Department to of the coaching pathway and in particular the during the year were:
the Sport Competition Department to sup- role AustCycle has now and in the future.
port Sean Muir, National Manager, Road. We • Junior Road Nationals – Pat Jonker: Analysing
are recruiting currently for a replacement with CA and AustCycle are pleased to announce Course Profiles;
the capability to move upwards within coach the development of a new NCAS accredi- • BMX Nationals – Brian Kirkham and Luke
education, provide technical cycling coaching tation, entitled AustCycle Skills Coach. The Madill: Travelling for Racing;
input as well as manage the administration for AustCycle Skills Coach is a new and improved • Various rider workshops at the National
the Sport Development Department. one-day, entry-level cycling accreditation Junior Track Series rounds; and
developed, implemented and managed in • Anti-doping rider education workshop at
In addition, Neil Ross (former Australian partnership by CA and AustCycle. U15/U17 Road Nationals.
National Women’s Track Endurance Assistant
Coach and former Canadian National Coach), This high quality course is a blend of the The department is planning to incorporate
has taken over from Emma Rickards (mater- existing Cycle Skills Coach Accreditation and webinars as part of the National Coach PDO
nity leave) and began as the National Coach elements of the Level 1 AustCycle Teacher calendar for 2013, targeting Level 1 and 2
Development Coordinator on 1 July 2012. Accreditation Program, creating a new and coaches across all disciplines.
Neil brings a wealth of coaching and coach improved entry-level cycling coach who is
education experience to the department and accredited with the following remit: Coaches
links the High Performance Department more A total 368 coaches were either newly
closely with Sport Development through his The AustCycle Skills Coach will be able to accredited or re-accredited in 2011-12.
High Performance Coach Development role. coach basic cycling skills and safe cycling ma-
noeuvres to beginner and intermediate riders eLearning
Coaching in traffic-free and low traffic environments. CA’s long-term eLearning vision is the crea-
Coach Survey tion of engaging online learning with, and for,
The department conducted a coach survey In essence, the AustCycle Skills Coach accred- affiliates that complements offline learning
earlier this year to ascertain the level of coach itation will provide both CA and AustCycle activity. CA and its affiliates will benefit in
education activity at club and state level. with increased capacity to deliver entry-level many ways, including:
The coaches ‘needs and wants’ were also cycling programs in both the community and • cost savings;
identified to allow for improved servicing club contexts. • an improved offer to learners and increased
of coaches along with more effective opportunity for learning;
communication with the development staff Road and Track • self-paced progress for the learner who has
at state/Territory level. To link directly with the new AustCycle Skills limited time;
Coach, a new entry-level road and track skills • learning content at the point of need;
Coach Education Review coaching course is currently in the develop- • ability to refresh skills at any time; and
In line with the participation audit, the ment phase. It will be aimed at people who • recruitment and retention of coaches and
department is planning to conduct a coach want to develop their road and track skills, commissaires.
education audit to ascertain the level of coach and advance riders to their first road and track
education activity at club and state level. The club races. The ASC recently agreed to provide National
coaches ‘needs and wants’ will be also identi- Sporting Organisations (NSO’s) with
fied to allow for improved servicing of coaches Mountain Bike access to their eLearning portal. As well as
along with more effective communication A new entry-level MTB coaching course is managing the relationship with Canopi (the
with the Coaching and Development Staff at currently in the development phase. It will IT consultants) and providing guidance,
State/Territory level. be a MTB-specific adaptation of the current training and in-kind support to the NSO’s, the
20
20. Part 1/ Department Reports
ASC provides us with options to customise a process and a silver calendar email address Advocacy Partnerships, as well as discussions
range of other courses it has developed for are in place to manage all calendar enquiries with the State/Territory Departments of
sport: Beginning Coaching General Principles; and requests. Sport Recreation to further replicate the
Play By The Rules; Member Welfare Course integration process at state/territory level.
(in development); High Performance Goal Inclusive Cycling
Setting; High Performance Decision Making A Para-cycling survey was conducted BMX Freestyle BMX
(in development). following the 2011/12 National Hand- BMX Event Training (BEM) was delivered to
cycling Series (NHS) and the 2012 National all NSW clubs and will continue to be rolled
PARTICIPATION DEVELOPMENT Para-cycling Championships. Key results out in other states. Production of a new TV
Alexandra Bright, National Participation included a list of coaches who currently advertisement for the 2012 BMX National
Coordinator, has been driving a number of coach Para-cyclists, feedback on the delivery Sign-on Day was completed. 61 of 108 BMX
key initiatives in conjunction with the ASC, of these events, interest and access to track clubs took part in National Sign-on Day,
our affiliates at all levels, and the coaching cycling, interest in the expansion of the NHS with over 750 participants and 171 new
and development team. to include all Para-cycling classifications members signing up. Delivery of the new
and feedback on inclusion and access to Beginner BMX Coaching Course commenced
Beginners racing opportunities. A NHS committee has in January and has been highly successful.
CA has ongoing involvement in the been formed to oversee the 2012/13 NHS. Development of the Online Level 1 BMX
development of the AustCycle National Round dates for 2013 are being confirmed Club Officiating Course has seen 400 officials
School Riding Program (ANSRP). and communication is in place to align complete the training. The Freestyle BMX
Australian Paralympic Committee Talent Coaching Course has been redeveloped
Road Track Search Days with the NHS to increase event and reduced to a half-day interactive course.
There is ongoing development of exposure and participation in the coaching Projects for 2012/13 have been condensed
introduction to road and track racing clinics (being held at each round). For the to BEM training, Freestyle BMX and BMX
programs and two new club-based 2012 membership and beyond, Para- National Sign-on Day.
participation programs aimed at providing cycling membership is offered to people
new club members with the skills to with a disability outside of the traditional Mountain Bike (MTB)
contest their first road or track club race. Para-cycling pathway (deaf/hard of hearing The MTB Dirt Schools Program has been
Furthermore, production of a National Sign- and those with an intellectual disability). developed and is a ten-session MTB program
On Day Research Report and consultation CA supported the 2011 Global Games for high school students. The program was
with SSO Executive Officers and CA internal (international multi-discipline event for launched at the Sydney Bike Lifestyle Show
departments for the delivery of a National people with intellectual disabilities) though and expressions of interest are now open for
Sign-On Day in November 2012 has been staff attendance, insurance and the provision schools to purchase the program. MTBA will
completed. Based on feedback, a nationally of clothing for team members. be holding a participation activity in October
targeted date will not be pursued, but a as part of the IMBA ‘Take a Kid Mountain
Come and Try Cycling Club Manual to assist Women Biking Day’.
clubs with the delivery of Come and Try days Consultation for the National Sign-on Day
for new members is in the final stages of Project highlighted that targeting women Acknowledgements
development. and juniors as part of new member initiatives The large increase in the number of coaches,
is important. Through Key Result Area 2 coach servicing and the other significant
Juniors (Road Track), these programs will have developments during the past 12 months
CA had a successful delivery of the inaugural the flexibility to be delivered as targeted could not have been achieved without
2011/12 National Junior Track Series (NJTS), women’s initiatives. Support to the CA the contribution of the presenter/assessor
with an average of 110 riders (U15 and U17) ‘Women Wheels’ media project through the workforce and the staff from CA, BMXA,
contesting each round and 264 riders in total Marketing/Communications Department has MTBA and each SSO across road, track and
taking part in the NJTS. An NJTS Working been provided, including a women’s survey BMX. Thank you to everyone who played a
Group has been formed for the 2012/13 (cycling and BMX) focusing on questions role in the progress made during the past 12
series. This season’s series includes the about what women wished they knew when months.
introduction of Madison (includes Madison they first started cycling, what advice they
orientation training and racing for U17 would give to women getting started and
riders), three rounds extended to two days of who inspires them to cycle as well as content Brendan Moriarty
racing and an exciting and updated schedule support for the educational videos (available National Manager, Coaching Development
of events from 2011/12. on YouTube and the SBS Cycling Central
website) being filmed as part of this project.
Serious Recreation
A Silver Calendar of CA sanctioned Industry Partnerships
participation rides is now on the CA website, Progress continues to bring organisations
listing rides available to silver and gold within the cycling community closer
members. An electronic calendar listing together. Work continues to form National
21
23. 2012 / Cycling Australia Annual Report
Road Commission
Projects and Events men’s and women’s teams. Australian the first change to the course for several
2012 has seen major improvements in many riders’ focus then shifted to the Road World years. The Cycling Australia Board approved
facets of our national road cycling scene. The Championships in the Netherlands where, a change to both the road and ITT circuits
introduction of live television for the first time although missing out on gold, we were that should provide more opportunities for
during the Road National Championships one of the strongest teams with multiple exciting and open racing, while maintaining
in Ballarat was a resounding success, made medallists. a significant section on the iconic climb of
possible with CA’s partnership with Subaru. Mount Buninyong. The ITT course will now
The GreenEdge pro teams confirmed include Lake Wendouree and the Avenue of
The launch of Australia’s first Pro Tour Team their strong starts to their debut seasons Honour on a closed circuit in the centre of
on the world stage, GreenEdge, means that with both men’s and women’s teams also Ballarat.
there is now an uninterrupted pathway from receiving medals in the team time trial.
grassroots to World ProTour for both men Acknowledgements Thanks
and women in this country. Development The Road Commission would like to extend
The development of a National Road Series its thanks to promoters, team managers and
The popularity of teams racing at National standards document, which outlines the state representatives who assisted in the
Road Series (NRS) level continues to increase minimum standards an event must meet to consultation process for the NRS Standards
across the board. The 2012 NRS season be included on the NRS calendar, was one document. The members of the Commission
saw 23 teams register for the men’s series of the major developments undertaken by have again devoted a significant amount of
(compared with 16 teams in 2011) and the Road Commission in 2012. Consultation their personal time to contribute to the Com-
11 teams register for the women’s series included the first-ever promoters forum mission’s activities throughout a busy year.
(compared with six teams in 2011). with current NRS promoters, national and
international promoters, state associations Commission Members
The Herald Sun Tour faced challenges with and the Road Commission meeting to Chairman: Stephen Hodge (resigned
changes to the international calendar. Both discuss event safety, promotion and ensuring 19/10/12); Members: Matt Bazzano; John
the Herald Weekly Times, owners of the the future success of road racing in Australia. Craven; Rik Fulcher; Kipp Kaufmann; Michael
event, and Cycling Australia have worked Hands (co-opted); Donna Rae-Szalinski
hard to preserve this iconic Australian event, “Cycling’s focus on providing the best events (co-opted)
which will now be held as part of a summer and participation experience possible for our Coach: Dave Sanders
of cycling in January 2013. members and spectators means we need CA Coordinator: Sean Muir
to continue to improve and lift our game,
The Sport Department has also recently especially when it comes to organisation Stephen Hodge
committed to an increase in support of the of road cycling events. The work with our Chairman
National Hand-cycling Series. The focus will states, organisers and teams to develop the Road Commission
be on raising the profile and organisation at NRS standards has been vital to ensure we
events, while also increasing the number of continue to improve the organisation of
competitors and individuals trying the sport. our top events” (Stephen Hodge, Chair Road
Commission)
Even though our road riders missed out on
medals during the London 2012 Olympics The annual review of the Road Nationals
there was a strong showing by both the in Ballarat resulted in a decision to make
24
