What’s happening?
Rockhampton’s Kenrick Tucker Velodrome has received its first major upgrade in over 40 years, transforming the once deteriorating outdoor track into a world-class training venue. In an Australian-first, the velodrome was resurfaced with an advanced acrylic coating system by Mapei, replacing the cracked concrete that once plagued riders.
Why it matters
The resurfacing project enhances both safety and performance for local cyclists. Rising sprint star George Tucker says, “The new track is much better. It’s got a lot less bumps than the old track. It really allows you to go a lot faster. And it just really gives you more confidence when you are riding that it’s safer in general.”
Facilities like this are vital for the sport’s growth. “It’s given our cyclists something to come and race on and enjoy,” says Rockhampton Cycling Club President Joe Adair.
Local Impact
The velodrome now attracts cyclists of all ages and skill levels across the Rockhampton region. Weekly training and social rides, including 100-lap sessions and come-and-try events, foster a strong community spirit.
“We have little kids here, people just getting into the sport of velodrome cycling, people like me who have been doing velodrome cycling for quite a number of years—we can keep doing it and keep enjoying it and maintaining fitness and a great community,” Joe explains.
The track also draws high-level interest. Coach Paul Parker, who relocated from Melbourne to Rockhampton for its cycling heritage, highlights, “We’ve got a re-surfaced velodrome here, we’ve got the Olympics coming, we’ve got international teams wanting to use our venue. There’s been a positive resurgence as far as people enjoying the velodrome—it’s all very exciting.”
By the numbers:
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The velodrome underwent its first major resurfacing since opening more than 40 years ago.
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George Tucker, 16, is a national sprint title holder training on the track.
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Rockhampton Cycling Club holds weekly 100-lap sessions and regular come-and-try events for novice riders.
Zoom In
The resurfacing has a deep personal meaning for many local cyclists. George Tucker, inspired by watching Anna Meares OAM win Olympic Gold, trains on the same track she once used. He proudly recalls, “A few years after I started cycling, she signed my helmet which was really cool. It gives me the confidence that I can go to the next level because she did it.”
Anna Meares still visits the velodrome during trips to see her parents, maintaining her connection to the community. “Anna Meares still drops in every now and then when she visits her parents,” confirms coach Paul Parker.
Zoom Out
Funded through the Queensland Government’s Minor Infrastructure Program, the upgrade positions the velodrome as a key training and competition venue ahead of the upcoming Olympics. Outdoor tracks like this play an important role in developing mental and physical toughness among cyclists.
“Traditionally outdoor velodromes were the best place to get improvements in cyclists. Because you have to deal with the elements and you develop a lot more strength, mental and physical toughness,” explains Paul.
What to look for next?
Cyclists and community members are encouraged to join the Rockhampton Cycling Club’s Wednesday night training sessions or explore come-and-try events. For more information, visit Rockhampton Cycling Club.
