FAQs

How difficult are the gravel sections of the Dirty Pig & Whistle?

• The gravel roads are generally hard packed and with few undulations although there is a pinch or two. Just take extra care when descending through the corners. A few sections are a bit rougher and let common sense prevail.

• Although gravel requires a slightly different technique, it is not beyond most cyclists with moderate riding experience. We would strongly suggest some training on gravel roads if you have never ridden them before, they’re a heap of fun too!

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Weather

Autumn days in the Goldfields in May can be glorious. The current weather forecast is looking near-perfect!

• Creswick Weather Forecast

Please be prepared in your clothing choices. It is your responsibility to carry what you may need during the ride.

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Cancellations

The option of receiving a full refund has now ended. The opportunity to transfer to another rider, or to next year’s 2026 event, ends at 5pm Wednesday, 1 May 2025). For transfers, please contact us.

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Where can I park?

There are a number of parking options available for you. 

• There is ample parking at Melbourne University, accessible heading east up the hill via Water Street (400m).

• At the southern end of Moore Street alongside the Creswick Creek (90m)

• We suggest you park at your accommodation if staying overnight

Please do not park outside the shops in town. On the Saturday, this is time-limited parking. For both days we want to keep these clear for the local community and trade. Please also be mindful of not blocking any access to homes and businesses. It is important we respect the locals and keep our impact to a minimum.

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Age restrictions

Minimum age to participate in the gravel ride option is 14. 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult parent or guardian. Age limits don’t apply for the cyclo-cross.

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What kind of bike can I ride in the ‘cross (CX) events?

• The ‘cross component of the weekend is all about fun! And good-natured heckling. Our only rules are that e-bikes are a no go. And open-category riders’ bikes must have drop handlebars. We’re not concerned about tyre width, nor handlebar width or flare. But we are all for flair!

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What kind of bike can I ride on the gravel?

• We recommend ‘cross, gravel or mountain bikes. We do not recommend rod bikes. Regardless of your steed, we’d recommend 40mm+ tyres. We wouldn’t recommend going less than 33mm. Go as large as your frame will allow. Oh, and a tubeless set-up is where it’s at.

• E-bikes are welcome! We love e-bikes.

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Do I need to wear a helmet?

Yes, Australian Law, Cycling Australia and UCI regulations all mandate the use of helmets. All riders must wear an Australian Standards Certified helmet. The certification sticker must be visible inside the helmet.

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If I need medical assistance what should I do?

Medics will be on the course and on call. Marshalls and bike mechanics will be travelling on the course on motorcycles and in cars. Traffic management will be controlling traffic at intersections and volunteers will be guiding riders for turns at key intersections. All of these people are equipped with phones and/or radios and can contact Event Control to organise assistance. In the event of a severe accident call 000.