2026 MTB National Championships Deliver a Big Week

It’s been a big few days on the mountain with Mt Buller coming alive for the 2026 GWM Mountain Bike National Champs. 

Under clear skies and in prime condition, the trails set the stage for a weekend of fast racing, tight battle and plenty of time spend soaking up the High Country views. Riders, supporters and spectators filled the village, with Northside Express spinning throughout the week bringing a steady flow of action from the base to the top. 

Across cross country and downhill events, Australia’s best lined up and delivered. From juniors through to elite fields, the racing was hard fought, with plenty of moments that had crowds leaning in trackside. 

  Among the standout performances, Rebecca Henderson claimed her 13th consecutive elite XCO national title, a winning streak rarely seen in Australian sport, finishing well clear of the field after taking control early. In the elite men’s cross country, Jack Ward set the pace from the opening lap helping him secure his first national title in a composed ride. 

Downhill racing saw Luke Meier Smith make 4 national titles in a row, continuing his dominance, while Elleni Turkovic claimed her first elite national title in a breakthrough performance.

Off the bike, it was just as memorable. Long, warm days rolled into cool alpine evenings, with visitors making the most of the trails, the village and everything in between. From early course inspections to late afternoon laps, it was a weekend that felt right at home on the mountain. 

As the event wraps, the momentum doesn’t stop here. The trails are still rolling and there’s time to get out and explore before the season winds down on 19th April. Whether it’s your first visit or another lap on familiar ground, there’s plenty more to discover across the 60+ kms of the trail network. 

Looking ahead to Easter, there’s plenty happening across the mountain. RockWire has people conquering their fears up on the summit, while a buzzing village fills with activity across the long weekend. Not far behind, the Billycart Bash is set to roll into the village, so we hope everyone’s already getting busy building their carts.