Barossa’s TDU double header

Barossa is set to shine on the big stage with a full day of racing action following the announcement of a Santos Tour Down Under double header event.

For the first time, on Wednesday January 21, Barossa will host not one but two events, with a new women’s one-day race around Tanunda immediately following Stage 1 of the men’s TDU.

Mayor Bim Lange said it’s a unique opportunity for the region and a chance for the Barossa to shine on the big stage again.

“Each year, the Tour Down Under puts Barossa on the world stage, attracting visitors and showcasing our region’s premium tourism appeal – this year will be even bigger and better. We’re thrilled to host a full day of racing and excited to welcome some of the best male and female cyclists in the world to our region” he said.

“It’s shaping up to be a huge day of cycling action. With the double header we’re going to see even more people in the region, and we look forward to showing them why Barossa is worth slowing down for.

“The TDU always draws a great crowd, and our region offers some of the best vantage points to capture all the race action. Now with back-to-back races there’s a greater opportunity for people to stay longer, enjoy the best of Barossa hospitality and ‘wine down’ with us.

With the race start and finish for both races in Tanunda, the town centre will be a hive of activity with a free family street party, entertainment and activities for the whole family and the race action live on the big screen.

Stage 1 of the men’s race kicks off at 11.10am with an exciting new race route, that will see the peloton pass Barossa Park and grand Chateaux in Lyndoch, before making their way long Gomersal Road to complete three loops from Tanunda to Angaston. Following the men’s race, spectators can dive into Tanunda’s buzzing atmosphere, tasting, sipping, eating and shopping their way through Barossa’s cafes, cellar doors, restaurants and shops before the women’s race start.

Riders in the women’s race will complete 12 laps of an eight-kilometre circuit, giving spectators plenty of opportunities to see all the colour and excitement of the peloton.

Council and the Santos Tour Down Under will work collaboratively to activate Tanunda for the day. Council will lead the activation of the township, working closely with local businesses to maximise the full potential of the double header, with support from SATC provided through the Santos Tour Down Under (TDU) Santos Best Dressed Town and Associated event programs.

Council and TDU will also work with local businesses and residents to address and minimise any potential impacts of the double header.