Dust blows riders away during opening day downhill practice

The 2025 GWM Mountain Bike National Championships kicked off at Mt Buller on Wednesday, with downhill riders taking on their first full run of the international downhill course.

The track, notoriously challenging, greeted riders with a combination of dust, dry conditions, and blown-out corners—particularly in the upper sections—testing their skill.

Riders were left covered in dust after multiple practice runs

The course’s demanding nature was a topic of conversation among the riders, but many expressed excitement for the challenges it presents.

South Australia’s Troy Brosnan made his return to Mt Buller after a 10-year absence.

He noted the dry conditions and rocky terrain that have always been a hallmark of the track but was particularly keen on some of the new sections including the grassy areas that provide alternative lines.

Troy Brosnan rips through the top section of the International course.

“Some new sections on the grass actually look pretty cool giving you a few alternative lines,” he said.

“It’ll be a proper rough race but fun.”

West Australian Gus Kyme had high praise for the course’s updated layout, particularly the middle section following the iconic road gaps.

“Loving the changes that the team has made for the race,” Kyme said.

For Gus’s brother, Roly, this year marks his first time riding at Mt Buller.

He was quick to share his impressions, admitting he was still adjusting to the unique layout of the track.

“But I think it’s going to be a good classic Aussie downhill race.”

Cooper Downey, shared his strategy for tackling the challenging conditions.

“It’s going to be a matter of keeping a clean line and carrying as much exit speed as possible,” he explained.

Sacha Mills during her practice run at Mt Buller

Queensland's Sacha Mills also weighed in on the conditions emphasising the importance of control.

“Just got to focus on keeping it upright really especially in the top section where it’s soft,” she said.

The action wasn’t just limited to downhill.

Cross-country riders also had their chance to test out the XCO and XCC courses ahead of tomorrow’s cross-country relay and e-bike events during official practice.

2024 junior XCO national champion Harry Doye got a couple of early laps in saying there was one surprise element – the technical climb.

“It’s very flowy, very fun, very fast.

“It’s more challenging than I thought it would be,” he said.

“And it will be tight if it comes down to a sprint finish.”

The event schedule can be found here.

Start lists and results can be found here.

The 2025 GWM Mountain Bike National Championships is supported by GWM Australia & New Zealand, and the Victorian Government.

Photo Credit: Matt Rousu Photography