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Melrose gears up for 22nd Spitwater Fat Tyre Festival

Melrose
Melissa Smith

Enjoy a fat weekend of fun on and off the tracks in Melrose

Melrose, tucked beneath the towering peak of Mount Remarkable, holds the title of the oldest town in the Flinders Ranges – but don’t let that fool you. This place is anything but sleepy.

With over 100km of hand-built trails, designed specifically for mountain biking, and views for days, this rugged little town has become South Australia’s mountain biking mecca, and every year, it throws one hell of a party to prove it.

The Spitwater Fat Tyre Festival on June 7–8 is rolling into its 22nd year with a stacked lineup of riding, music, food and entertainment.

A non-competitive, family-friendly event Fat Tyre Festival welcomes riders of all ages and abilities to enjoy the trails at their own pace. It’s not about lycra, podiums or personal bests, it’s about getting out on the tracks, riding with friends and family while making memories along the way.

“The purpose of the festival has always been to bring people together through a shared love of riding,” say organisers. “It’s inclusive, it’s welcoming, and it’s about having fun – no matter what bike you ride or how experienced you are.”

Peddle pushers can join guided rides, brush up on skills in mountain bike classes, and watch BMX displays from local talent out of Port Pirie and Adelaide.

Melrose

The rock climbing wall is back, the pump track lights up for the kids, and the Melrose pubs and main street will be buzzing with live music, food vans, and local market stalls. There’s face painting, balloons, nature play, and a stack of kids’ shows to keep the whole crew entertained.

It’s a weekend made for families, bike lovers, and anyone looking for an excuse to get outdoors, breathe in some country air, and enjoy the magic of Melrose.

Spitwater Fat Tyre Festival
When:
June 7 & 8, 9am–5pm
Where: Melrose, Southern Flinders Ranges
Cost: Free entry (fees apply for some activities)
Presented by the Melrose community and platinum sponsor Spitwater Heating and Cooling