Santos Festival of Cycling to abide by COVID Management Plan

The Santos Festival of Cycling which commences tomorrow will be abiding by a COVID Management Plan with the event including a number of bike races traveling through Adelaide, the Barossa Valley, Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu Peninsula with never before seen start and finish lines across South Australia. There will also be a number of family and spectator events being held as part of the cycling festival.

South Australian Police Commander for the event, Chief Superintendent Stuart McLean said there is great anticipation for this event and added “we are keen for people to celebrate safely. This event will be abiding by a COVID Management Plan, therefore it is important that those going along abide by what has been put in place by the event organisers to ensure their safety and those around them.

“After what has been a challenging 2020 which has seen some events unable to take place because of COVID-19, I know many South Australians and interstate visitors are really looking forward to going along to events like the Santos Festival of Cycling, enjoying local South Australian produce and relaxing with family and friends.

“Things will look different this year compared to past cycling events and it is vital visitors follow COVID-19 safe practices and directions. Please also remember to scan the QR code when entering the venue.”

SA Police will deploy a highly visible presence over the six days of this event to preserve the inclusive, family-friendly atmosphere of this festival.

Those going along to the event are encouraged to enjoy the celebrations but to do so safely. SA Police would like to highlight a few key important things for those attending the event to remember:

– Do not leave bags unattended, even if only to walk a short distance to get food or beverages.

– Plan your transport ahead if you intend on drinking. Organise a ride share, Catch public transport or car pool with a friend.

– For those driving to and from the event, be patient and allow extra time to navigate road closures and possible delays.

– Look out for your friends and family.

– Report any suspicious behaviour immediately on the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or in an emergency please call Triple Zero.

– Stay hydrated particularly as we are now experiencing warmer days and nights.

– Before leaving the house, check the event’s website regarding any changes at the event as well as the SA Health website for any updates regarding COVID-19.

Motorists and other road users are particularly urged to be extra vigilant and patient on the roads, with this time of the year naturally bringing out more cyclists which means an increase in risks on the roads. In 2020, two cyclists lost their lives on SA roads and 73 were seriously injured, with two of the serious injuries taking place during the 2020 Tour Down Under event.

Cyclists are also reminded to obey the road rules for their own safety and the safety of those around them. 76 expiation notices were issued to cyclists in 2020 with the most common offence being failure to wear an appropriate bicycle helmet, followed by the next most common offence being riding a bicycle at night without a front white light.

There will be a number of road closures associated with this event and the public are encouraged to visit https://tourdownunder.com.au/about to find out more about these closures and the event.