The Michelin Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix is almost here, with thousands of fans expected to converge on Phillip Island for the event, which runs from Friday, 26 to Sunday, 28 October.

This is the biggest sporting event in regional Victoria and the economic benefit it brings to Bass Coast Shire is in excess of $30 million. It is the cornerstone of the Bass Coast Shire events program and is a major driver for off-season visitation and employment.

Phillip Island has successfully hosted the Australian Moto GP for the last 21 years and the event is set to remain at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit until at least 2027.

Many Bass Coast residents have experienced the increased crowds and bustle created by the Moto GP, but have not experienced the thrills and action at the track. A community day will be held on Friday, 26 October, where Bass Coast residents can gain free general admission. To receive a complimentary ticket, residents need to present proof of residency at the Gate 1 ticket box on either Thursday, 25 or Friday, 26 October.

In addition to the many activities in Cowes over the weekend, the community will see hundreds of riders stopping over in San Remo at around 1.30pm on Thursday, 25 October as part of the 16th annual Barry Sheene Tribute Ride. This ride will also be passing through Inverloch and Wonthaggi on its way from Bairnsdale to the Phillip Island Circuit.

The Cranbourne GP Run on Saturday, 27 October sees around 5,000 Motorcycles riding from Cranbourne to Phillip Island. The riders are expected to arrive in Cowes at 11.30am.

Phillip Island and Bass Coast will become very busy before and over the Grand Prix weekend, with an expected 80,000-90,000 visitors. To cope with the influx of visitors, a significant traffic management plan will be in place to minimise the disruption to the community.

The Royal Australian Air Force will be conducting flying displays near the circuit over the weekend. These displays, while thrilling to watch, can be loud and disruptive to pets. Council encourage people to take the necessary precautions to ensure pets are safe. They will take place from 1.15pm to 1.30pm on Saturday, 27 October, from 3.30pm to 3.40pm on Sunday, October 28, subject to weather conditions.

For further details on all of the events and activities visit basscoast.vic.gov.au/events or pick up a copy of the community information brochure from any Council Customer Service or Visitor Information centre, or online here.