WELLINGTON will soon host one of the country’s roughest and toughest obstacle courses – adventure tourism that is a true test of one’s grit.
True Grit, Australia’s locally owned and operated military-inspired obstacle course race, is set to make its debut right in our own rural backyard of Glenmaggie, marking a big milestone in regional tourism development.
Renowned for its challenging courses and commitment to physical and mental resilience, True Grit will bring attention to Glenmaggie and Gippsland as a whole.
Originally scheduled for June 15 and 16, True Grit VIC has rescheduled this anticipated event to be held on November 16 and 17, and promises participants a thrilling experience amidst Glenmaggie’s scenic beauty. Surrounded by state forests and sprawling farmland, the course offers a unique opportunity for adventurers to test their limits in an awe-inspiring natural setting.
In collaboration with tourist centre The Middle of Everywhere, True Grit will showcase the liveability of the Glenmaggie region along with the attributes that make the town a popular tourist destination, with local businesses set to benefit.
Partnering with the Montana Campground, True Grit offers participants the opportunity to indulge in a weekend getaway complete with live entertainment, local wines, gourmet cuisine, and, of course, the thrilling challenge of the obstacle course.
Noting that the Glenmaggie region boasts a wealth of natural attractions, including beautiful coastlines, tranquil rivers, lush forests, and much more, True Grit’s Chief Executive and Race Director, Tom Gilmartin, says the town holds “immense potential as a tourist hotspot”.
“Our inaugural event in Victoria signifies our commitment to promoting adventure tourism in regional Australia, and we look forward to welcoming participants from near and far to experience the true essence of Glenmaggie,” Mr Gilmartin said.
Mr Gilmartin told the Gippsland Times that True Grit for years heard requests to come to Victoria, and said the Montana Campground was the perfect property to promote adventure tourism.
“We pride ourselves for being the only OCR (obstacle course racing) company that designs our obstacle courses to integrate seamlessly with each property’s natural terrain, and the Glenmaggie campground, surrounded by forests and farmland, offers the perfect backdrop for such an approach,” he said.
“What makes the Glenmaggie site special for an obstacle course is its pristine natural setting. With forests and rolling farmland around, it’s a unique spot for such an event, adding to the challenge and excitement.”
Wellington Shire Council Mayor, Ian Bye, hopes that residents, businesses and visitors make the most of True Grit coming to town.
“Our region is brimming with exciting events, fantastic local businesses, and activities for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or interests,” Cr Bye said.
“I encourage visitors to secure event tickets early and plan their stay using The Middle of Everywhere website or app. We can’t wait to welcome the True Grit experience to Gippsland in its inaugural Victorian year, and as the first Victorian host of this iconic event, we are looking forward to embracing locals and visitors to experience the True Grit atmosphere in November.”
“Whilst local businesses are not only keen for the initial benefit of the event, they are also proud that Wellington, The Middle of Everywhere, has been selected to host the inaugural Victorian True Grit event. This is an incredible opportunity to showcase the exceptional resources and diverse landscapes we have on offer and know that those involved in the event will return to explore further in the future.”
True Grit Events, established in 2013, has promoted physical fitness, mental resilience, and community engagement through its unique obstacle course challenges, and Cr Bye expects that to carry over to Wellington.
“The Middle of Everywhere welcomes and supports all events that showcase our region and bring a wider economic benefit to our area and with the ever-growing rise of the fitness and wellbeing industry, we are equally as thrilled to support events focused on healthy and active lifestyles,” he said.
Tickets to take part in True Grit Victoria are now available, with early bookings recommended. Spectators can watch for free and don’t need a ticket.
For further information and registration, visit truegrit.com.au or email support@truegrit.com.au
