Riordan Group is backing a key community event in Wycheproof known as King of the Mountain.
The race, to be held on Saturday 27 September 2025, is a unique challenge designed to test the strongest and fittest people from across the region.
Originally held from 1977 to 1988, the “Australia’s toughest footrace” was relaunched in 2023 after a 35-year break, and is now celebrated as a showcase of community spirit, strength, and resilience.
Mount Wycheproof is officially registered as the smallest mountain in Australia.
The conical-shaped rise is only 43 metres high, but steep.
Carrying bags of wheat in the challenge, male competitors are ladened with 60kg and female competitors with 20kg on their backs to race for one kilometre uphill to the finish line.
There are several other events, including a 5km summit dash, junior races, wheelbarrow relays and a community picnic where the winners’ presentations will be announced crowning the King and Queens of the Mountain.
The AFL Grand Final is screened live.
“We can see from this event what can be achieved when people have a goal and are prepared to work together and overcome challenges. This event has already made a significant impact on the community, and we are very proud to be a part of it,” said Jim Riordan, Managing Director of Riordan.
The event is the major annual fundraiser for the Calder United Lions Football, Netball and Hockey Club, which was formed earlier this year after the merger of the Wycheproof-Narraport FNHC and Nullawil FNC.
Funds generated from the 2023 event have gone directly to improving training facilities, installing better lighting, and laying the foundation for future projects, including clubhouse renovations, sporting field upgrades, and other resources such as safety equipment and volunteer training.
It has also helped fund the now-iconic ‘Footy Bus,‘ which benefits not only the football, cricket, and bowls clubs but also other local groups that regularly use the community bus.
The Riordan King of the Mountain has also provided a welcome economic boost to local businesses.
Hotels, accommodation providers, food outlets and the supermarket all see an increase in trade, while the event brings past residents back to reconnect with their roots and rekindle proud memories tied to the race.
“We’re very proud to support the King of the Mountain event as an opportunity to bring people together, boost local business, and drive meaningful community development,” said Riordan.
The community benefits, according to Ricky Allan, President of the Calder United Lions, go far beyond sport by extending to every corner of the town.”
“These initiatives are more than just infrastructure investments they’re tools that help bring people together, support grassroots sport, and create opportunities for all ages across the region,” he said.
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