The ultimate send-off, promises council

Phillip Island is preparing to host an unforgettable MotoGP from October 23 to 25, with the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix 2026 promising a historic weekend of racing, celebration, nostalgia and community spirit.

This year's event marks the 30th Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix race held at Phillip Island, celebrating more than three decades of iconic moments, legendary riders and unforgettable memories that have helped cement the island's place in motorsport history.

While there is no denying the sadness many in the community feel knowing this will be the final MotoGP on Phillip Island, Bass Coast Shire Council is encouraging locals and visitors to make the most of the occasion and help give the event the send-off it deserves.

Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari said the final race was an opportunity to both celebrate the event's legacy while looking to the future.

"The MotoGP has been part of the identity of Phillip Island for more than three decades. It's helped put our region on the international stage, supported local businesses and created lifelong memories for residents and visitors," Cr Tessari said.

"Of course there's disappointment that this chapter is coming to an end, and Council continues to advocate for support and investment to help our community transition and seize future opportunities, but first we're going to celebrate everything this event has meant to our community."

Phillip Island's motorsport history stretches back to 1928 and the running of the 100 Miles Road Race, now recognised as Australia's first Grand Prix.

Since the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix arrived at the island circuit in 1989, the spectacular ocean-view track has become one of the most loved venues on the GP calendar, attracting up to 100,000 attendees across the three-day event.

Cowes entertainment

And when the racing finishes each day, the celebrations will continue in Cowes.

The Cowes MotoGP Entertainment Precinct will once again transform Thompson Avenue into a family-friendly festival zone, complete with live music, entertainment, rider interviews and race highlights on the BMW Superscreen.

Visitors attending this year's event will be among the first to experience the completed Cowes Foreshore Precinct, which is on track to be finished ahead of the event, providing upgraded public spaces, more accessibility and a revitalised streetscape, said council.

Free live performances throughout the weekend will include Andrew Swift, The Laing Brothers and Rehash Cover Band.

Camping

For the first and final year, Council is also introducing the Cowes MotoGP Camping Expansion, providing additional accommodation options close to the Cowes town centre and entertainment precinct.

With local accommodation in high demand and many options already booked, the expansion will create additional places for visitors to stay locally and experience more of what Cowes and Bass Coast have to offer during the MotoGP weekend.

Cr Tessari said the expanded camping offering would help the Bass Coast region capture more of the economic opportunity generated by the final MotoGP, with more visitors able enjoy the entertainment precinct and support local businesses throughout the weekend.

"We're excited to fill a need in demand and open up additional camping close to the heart of Cowes," Cr Tessari said.

"It means more visitors can stay locally, enjoy the atmosphere and spend more time supporting our cafes, restaurants, shops and local businesses.

"Visitors will be able to leave the car behind, jump on the shuttle to the circuit, then return to Cowes to continue enjoying everything our community has to offer."

The campground will feature onsite amenities and regular shuttle bus services connecting campers to the circuit.

History

Meanwhile, Berninneit will host a special nostalgic display celebrating the history of MotoGP and motorsport on Phillip Island, while local businesses will embrace the racing spirit through Council's Rev Up Your Shopfront competition.

A Community Day will again be held on Friday October 23, providing free general admission for Bass Coast residents.

Finally, Council is also giving locals the chance to be part of history, with free MotoGP tickets up for grabs through its Coastell newsletter.

Whether you're a lifelong fan, a first-time visitor or simply looking to soak up the atmosphere, Bass Coast Shire Council invites everyone to be part of this historic final chapter.

For camping information, road closure details, Community Day information and competition entry details, visit www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/motogp.