snowy mountains grammar school Mountain Biking Program Handbook
Welcome From the Principal, Dr Andrew Bell
Welcome to the Mountain Biking Program at Snowy Mountains Grammar School. We are proud to be one of the first schools in Australia to have offered Mountain Biking (MTB) as a school sports program and we continue to provide an exceptional experience for riders of all levels, from beginners to those competing internationally. Our downhill program operates out of Thredbo, a fully equipped facility and we also access a variety of pristine local trails of all types and levels of challenge.
Our programs include multiple MTB disciplines such as downhill, enduro and cross-country trail riding. Programs range from recreational sport riding through to advanced race-specific coaching through to our new MTB Academy program, with low rider-to-coach ratios to ensure effective skill development and knowledge acquisition for those wanting to take their riding to the next level. Safety is our priority; our qualified and experienced coaches focus on teaching our students safe riding techniques, race craft and practice.
As one of Australia’s fastest-growing sports, it is no surprise that Mountain Biking at SMGS is among the most
popular and sought-after activities, both recreationally and in our MTB Academy program. Several of our SMGS Alumni have gone on to race professionally around the world with impressive success.
We are thrilled to provide hundreds of students the opportunity to engage in this invigorating contemporary sport in one of Australia’s most pristine environments, catering to all levels of interest and participation.
At SMGS, students seamlessly continue their academic studies while growing their passion for the outdoors. If you would like to learn more about our programs, please explore this Handbook, and I further invite you to speak with our Director of Sport or MTB Coordinator for more specific information.
We look forward to welcoming you to our exciting Mountain Biking Program.
Dr Andrew Bell Principal
Meet Our Team
Director of Sport – Mrs Sally Bourke
Sally holds a Bachelor of Physical Education and serves as the Director of Sport at Snowy Mountains Grammar School. She oversees a diverse range of sport programs, ensuring every student has the chance to explore and excel in their chosen sports. With a background in Softball, Hockey, Swimming and Diving, her passion for sports runs deep. Sally stays active herself, playing in the Tuesday night Jindabyne Netball competition and skiing during Winter.
In her role, Sally is dedicated to creating an environment where students feel encouraged to try new sports and develop their skills across a variety of sporting disciplines. Sally organises events and ensures that each program reflects SMGS’s core values and goals, inspiring students to pursue excellence and find joy in their athletic pursuits.
MTB Coordinator – Jay Williams
Jay is a seasoned professional in outdoor adventure sports, with 25 years of hands-on experience that spans a wide range of activities. His deep passion for the outdoors and commitment to fostering enriching learning experiences have been the driving forces behind his achievements.
With a Bachelor of Arts in Outdoor Education and a Diploma in Education with a focus on Outdoor Education, Jay combines academic knowledge with practical skills to design and deliver our MTB programs that are both challenging and transformative. His educational background has equipped him to create experiences that go beyond traditional learning, allowing students to discover their own strengths and capabilities.
His enthusiasm for outdoor learning and his ability to inspire confidence and resilience have earned him a respected place in our SMGS community.
Mountain Bike Supervisor – Nathan Booth
Nathan is a highly skilled mountain biking professional with extensive experience both on and off the bike. He holds impressive qualifications such as PMBIA Level Two Air Instructor and certifications from AusCycling. Additionally, he is certified in bike mechanics (Cytech Technical I and II Certifications) and has extensive experience in running bicycle workshops. Nathan frequently competes in local MTB events and previously was an elite road cyclist achieving notable results at both State and National levels. From coaching new riders to guiding advanced riders tackling tough terrains, Nathan’s passion and commitment to the cycling world shine through.
Coaches – Bike Betty
Bike Betty is a Mountain Bike Coaching service founded by Jo Larkin, whose passion for mountain biking inspired her to share the joy of riding with others. Since 2014, Jo’s coaching has helped thousands of riders of all ages and skill levels improve their confidence, knowledge and abilities on the track. Specialising in all-inclusive tuition and utilising locations such as Tathra, South Coast NSW and the Snowy Mountains, Jo’s sessions are designed to challenge and inspire. As a Level 2 PMBI Coach, she also offers empowering Women’s Coaching Sessions and Retreats, encouraging women to overcome limitations and embrace the thrill of adventure.
bikebetty.com.au
Coaches – Jindy Riders
Established in 2022, Jindy Riders runs clinics, lessons, coaching and guided experiences for all ages, levels and abilities. Jindy Riders, Ruth Kennedy and her team of PMBIA Level 1 and 2 coaches provide many of our MTB Academy Enduro coaches as well as instructors for the SMGS XC and Junior riders programs.
jindyriders@yahoo.com
Coaches – Sacred Ride
Sacred Ride is the most established and dedicated bike, water and outdoor sports centre in the Snowy Mountains. Sacred Ride provides PMBIA qualified coaches for our MTB Academy students throughout the year. Sacred Ride is also the ‘go to’ for many of our students who need a service, mechanical work and ‘bike set up’ advice.
sacredride.com.au
Coaches – Thredbo
Designed with progression in mind, Thredbo Mountain Bike School boasts Australia’s top instructors and offers clinics, lessons and programs for all levels. From the valley floor Intro to MTB sessions, MTB Fundamentals clinics on the Cruiser beginner trails, through to our MTB Progression clinics and Private Lessons, Thredbo Mountain Bike School has something to take your riding to the next level.
thredbo.com.au/mtb-school
Communications
Maintaining regular communication is key to helping students and families feel supported and guided every step of the way. If you would like to discuss your child’s mountain biking experience or share any thoughts on how we can enhance our program, please reach out to our MTB Coordinator.
There are support structures in place for students participating in the MTB programs who may be absent from school for certain periods of time. Students and parents/carers receive regular updates on the program’s schedule, travel arrangements and any changes through the Teams App. This keeps parents/carers informed about their child’s whereabouts and daily activities.
School Contact Details
Snowy Mountains Grammar School 6339 Kosciuszko Road Jindabyne NSW 2627
School Reception
8:30 am - 4:30 pm 02 6457 1022
School Website www.smgs.nsw.edu.au
School Email info@smgs.nsw.edu.au
SMGS Instagram @snowymountainsgrammarschool
SMGS Facebook @snowymountainsgrammarschool
SMGS YouTube @snowymountainsgrammarschoo2038
SMGS LinkedIn @snowymountainsgrammarschool
Key Contacts
General Enquiries
Director of Sport (02) 64571022
sally.bourke@smgs.nsw.edu.au
MTB Program-specific Enquiries
MTB Coordinator jay.williams@smgs.nsw.edu.au
Program Aims
Our Mountain Biking Program aims to improve:
1. Skill Development: Enhance students’ technical mountain biking skills, including handling, control and trail navigation.
2. Physical Fitness: Promote cardiovascular fitness, strength and endurance through cycling-focused training programs.
3. Sportsmanship and Teamwork: Encourage values of fair play, respect for others and working collaboratively as a team both on and off the trails.
4. Safety Awareness: Instil safe riding practices, including proper gear usage, trail etiquette and first aid training.
5. Environmental Stewardship: Teach students about responsible trail use and conservation, fostering respect for the environment and sustainable outdoor practices.
6. Personal Growth: Develop self-confidence, resilience, and goal-setting through challenging and rewarding mountain biking experiences.
7. Competition Preparation: Prepare students for competitive racing, teaching tactics, strategy and the mental aspects of performance under pressure.
8. Community Building: Foster a sense of community and support among riders, coaches and the broader biking community.
9. Wellbeing and Fun: Emphasise the importance of enjoying the sport, balancing competitive ambitions with a lifelong love of biking.
Program Overview
Mountain Bike Academy
MTBA is committed to helping athletes find the balance between training, riding skill development, academic progression and student wellbeing.
During Term 1, MTBA has a full term of Gravity focused riding at Thredbo. Each Wednesday, MTBA students spend a full day at Thredbo with their coaches. Training also takes in preparation for MTB Interschools Competition and several other MTB racing events during the term. With full-day Wednesday training, academic support sessions are also provided after ‘normal’ school hours to help maintain scholarly progression.
During Terms 2 and 4, MTBA is focused on Enduro riding and utilises a variety of trail networks including Tyrolean, Mt Gladstone, Mt Stromlo (ACT), Thredbo Valley Track and Thredbo (when available). Enduro programs use qualified coaches to develop athlete skills to a level that will allow students to be more competitive on the race circuit or to develop skills as potential future coaches or professional instructors.
Training: Wednesday 7:30 am – 5:00 pm (depending on riding location)
Available to: MTBA applications are open to all students from Years 6 to 11
Key Contact: MTB Coordinator
Wednesday Sport Cross-Country (XC)
With experienced coaches, utilising the Jindabyne lakeside trails, students will work on their XC riding skills from skills courses, obstacles, jump lines and flow trails. XC biking builds the essential skills for all types of mountain biking, boosts fitness, supports a healthy lifestyle, and is a great way to explore the outdoors. This program is ideal for students aiming to improve their skills for easy and intermediate single-track riding.
Training: 1:40 pm – 3:30 pm
Available to: XC applications are open to all students from Years 5 to 11 as part of Wednesday Sport options in Terms 1, 2 and 4
Wednesday Sport selections are made by students during the previous term via Sentral
Key Contact: Director of Sport
Wednesday Sport Gravity
The Gravity Program is designed to support students to further develop their Gravity trail skills. The program focuses on Downhill riding at Thredbo MTB Park, with Thredbo coaches teaching students how to negotiate various obstacles and downhill features.
Training: 1:45 pm – 4:30 pm
Available to: Gravity applications are open to all students from Years 5 to 11 as part of Wednesday Sport options for Term 1 only. Students must be able to ride/have already ridden at Thredbo
Wednesday Sport selections are made by students during the previous term via Sentral
Key Contact: Director of Sport
Kindergarten to Year 4 Junior XC MTB
This afterschool co-curricular activity is designed to develop fundamental bike skills and foster a passion for riding from an early age. Led by experienced local coaches, the program includes a range of riding conditions, skills workshops, trail etiquette and engaging activities to improve bike handling. Sessions will take place across various local trail networks, including lakeside paths, Bungarra Alpine Centre and Hatchery Bay. This program provides young riders with an enjoyable opportunity to build the skills needed for riding on bike paths and easy single-track.
Training: Thursday afternoons
Available to: All Kindergarten to Year 4 students in Terms 1, 2 and 4
Expressions of Interest should be made early in the previous school term. Program offers will be sent out to parents/carers via Operoo
Key Contact: MTB Coordinator
Student Safety
First Aid
Injuries can happen when riding and SMGS is wellprepared to respond. All our coaches and staff carry first aid kits and are trained to provide first aid.
Gravity Riding sessions take place at Thredbo where we have support from the MTB Park Bike Patrol to ensure additional safety.
Baseline Concussion Testing
There has been growing concern in sporting communities in Australia and Internationally about the potential health ramifications for athletes from repeated head trauma (RHT) and sport-related concussion. Concussion affects athletes at all levels of sport, from the part time recreational athlete to the full time professional. If managed appropriately, most episodes of concussion resolve over a short period of time, with or without medical intervention. Complications can occur, including prolonged duration of symptoms and increased susceptibility to further injury. There is also concern about potential consequences of RHT for long term brain health.
Concussion symptoms and recovery times can differ greatly from person to person and the biggest risk is the compounding effects of receiving another concussion before fully recovering from the first. A baseline concussion test helps medical staff understand what a fully recovered state looks like for each individual, providing a crucial reference point for better care.
Baseline Concussion Testing is strongly recommended for all riders within all MTBA Enduro programs.
Term 1 MTBA students must provide a recent Baseline Concussion Testing result to be eligible to enter the Academy.
Early in Term 1, SMGS facilitates a Baseline Concussion Testing through Elevate Physio, a Complete Concussions provider in Jindabyne. Additional costs are involved for student tests. Testing is also offered to Gravity sport students at this time.
Equipment
Students must ensure their bike and safety equipment are in a good, safe working order before every coaching session.
Bike Requirements
• For MTBA students – must be a full suspension downhill (Term 1) or enduro bike (Terms 1, 2 and 4).
• For XC students – we recommend a full suspension bike.
• For Gravity students – must be a full suspension downhill or enduro bike.
• For Kindergarten to Year 4 XC – a standard bike, without training wheels, is acceptable.
Hard tail bikes can be used in negotiation with the MTB coach of the activity based on the student’s skill and experience.
**No e-bikes will be accepted for the MTB programs without prior approval.
It is the student’s responsibility to complete the following 7-point safety check of their bike before every coaching session:
1. Gears: Check condition of chain (no rust spots) and lubricate chain as needed. Check gears change smoothly in both directions.
2. Brakes: Check callipers are not loose or squeaking, smooth to operate and bring bike to a complete stop.
3. Wheels: Check for lateral movement, tyres are pumped up, tread and sidewalls are in good condition.
4. Seat: Quick release works and secures the post from slipping (if fitted). Dropper post (if fitted) is smooth and operational. Seat bolts are tight and seat does not wobble.
5. Handlebars: Check for movement in headset, head stem alignment, bolts are done up and there is no movement on handlebars / head stem or cockpit controls.
6. Cranks/Pedals: Check cranks for lateral movement, centre bolt or bolts are tight. Check pedals for lateral and horizontal movement and are in good condition.
7. Forks and Suspension: Ensure smooth movement and sufficient pressure/sag.
Compulsory Safety Equipment
All listed items are mandatory and represent the minimum requirements to ensure safety and keep the program running smoothly.
MTB Academy
• MTB Full face helmet which meets Australian standards
• Full finger MTB gloves
• Spine protection, brace or armour – chest and back
• Knee and elbow pads
• Water/Hydration bladder
• Spare tube and trail repair kit
Wednesday Sport Cross-Country (XC)
• MTB helmet which meets Australian standards
• Full finger MTB gloves
• Knee and elbow pads (recommended)
• Water/Hydration bladder
• Spare tube and trail repair kit
Wednesday Sport Gravity
• MTB Full face helmet that meets Australian standards
• Full finger MTB gloves
• Spine protection, brace or armour – chest and back
• Knee and elbow pads
• Water/Hydration bladder
Kindergarten to Year 4 Junior XC MTB
• MTB helmet meets Australian standards
• Full finger MTB gloves
• Water/Hydration bladder
Competition Events
Whilst full protection is recommended for competition, students must at a minimum wear what is outlined in the technical regulations for the event. Please see the technical regulations for each specific event.
**The UCI (Union Cyclist International) & Aus Cycling strongly recommend that all riders wear the following protection:
• Back, elbow, knee and shoulder protectors made of rigid materials
• Protection for the nape of the neck and the cervical vertebrae
Safety Notice, Inherent Risk and Acknowledgement for
Bike Riding at SMGS
Mountain
Mountain Bike (MTB) Riding is a fun, adventurous and challenging sport that should be treated with a high level of common sense and personal responsibility. The speed and control of a mountain bike rests in the hands of the student riding it. All students need to respect the terrain in which they are riding, travel at a speed that is controlled and within their skill level.
They should choose riding lines that are safe to handle and well within their technical abilities. It should be noted that MTB Riding can involve the bike leaving the ground within controlled jumps and/or over rocky or very uneven ground. Students who ride carelessly, ride at too high a speed for the conditions and/or attempt riding lines beyond their own skill levels can significantly raise the risk to their own safety. This aspect of riding cannot be controlled by SMGS staff and/or the instructors from Thredbo MTB School or other coaching contractors. Students must take personal responsibility for the control of their bike and for the choices they make when riding, especially on MTB tracks.
To minimise the inherent risk in MTB, all SMGS students need to pass a competency test with an instructor from Thredbo MTB or other coaching contractors to ride unaccompanied on downhill trails or to ride and compete in competitions. Senior student riders also ride with and monitor the safety and riding skills of junior or inexperienced riders. Students who ride dangerously or recklessly can be removed from the MTB program.
All SMGS students are required to wear the correct safety equipment at all times. Parents/carers and students should consider their protection needs carefully and seriously consider the purchase of recommended safety/protective items. Staff will make every reasonable effort to monitor and enforce the use of safety equipment. It should be noted, however, that students are not under direct adult supervision at all times and therefore there is a high degree of responsibility for wearing the correct safety equipment left in the hands of the student.
Students are required to load and unload their bikes from SMGS bike trailers. While assistance may be offered by SMGS staff, other students or coaching staff, it is the owner’s responsibility to ensure their bike is secured to the trailer before each departure. Failure to do so may lead to damage to their own or other bikes. Equipment is the personal responsibility of the student and loss or damage is not the responsibility of the School.
Transport
The school organises buses to ensure that students travel safely to and from the various program locations. SMGS provides transport for competitions where possible.
Photo Credit: Boen Ferguson
Competitions and Events
SMGS MTBA encourages riders to participate in the MTB Interschools Competition as well as external competitions. Some events have additional registration costs.
The school will keep parents/carers and students updated with additional information about the competitions.
Competitions
Downhill National Series auscycling.org.au
Thredbo Gravity Series thredbo.com.au/events/thredbo-gravity-series
Cannonball thredbo.com.au/events/2025/cannonball-mtb-festival
MTB Interschools Competition
thredbo.com.au/events/2025/boost-mobileaustralian-mtb-interschools
* Dates may be subject to change.
Date(s)
Round 1: Saturday 11 - Sunday 12 January 2025
Toowoomba
Round 2: Friday 31 January - Saturday 1 February 2025
Maydena
Round 3: Saturday 1 - Sunday 2 March 2025
Canberra
Round 4: Saturday 29 - Sunday 30 March 2025
Orange
Rounds 1 & 2: Saturday 7 December 2024
Ricochet Rumble and Pump Track Party
Round 3: Saturday 1 Feb 2025
Cruiser Crusher
Round 4: Saturday 29 March 2025
Supertrail Scramble
Round 5: Saturday 26 April 2025
Chainless Champs
Monday 10 – Saturday 15 February 2025
Monday 3 – Friday 7 March 2025
Student Information
Uniform
For the Kindergarten to Year 4 program, students are required to wear a long sleeve MTB jersey.
For Year 5 and above, students will be required to wear a SMGS long sleeve MTB jersey for training sessions and MTB Interschools Competition. These can be purchased from our Uniform Shop: shop.smgs.nsw.edu.au
Code of Conduct
1. You must remain under control and proceed in such a manner that you can stop or avoid other people and objects.
2. Do not stop where you are obstructing a trail or are not visible from above.
3. As you proceed downhill or overtake another person, you must avoid the people below and beside you.
4. When entering a trail or starting downhill, you must look uphill and ‘Give Way’ to other riders.
5. All riders must wear safety equipment as detailed in this handbook.
6. If you are involved in or witness a collision or accident, you must remain at the scene and identify yourself to the Bike Patrol/Coach and alert a SMGS staff member that there has been an accident where possible.
7. Keep off all closed trails and closed areas. Do not ride on the Summer road. Observe and obey all signs and warnings.
8. You must not use lifts or terrain if your ability is impaired through the use of drugs or alcohol.
9. You must have completed the chairlift and safety procedures initiation at each course. These will be conducted at the beginning of the season with a qualified instructor. Students will be taught how to load, ride and unload safely. If in doubt, ask the instructor or lift attendant.
10. Chairlift safety bars must be used.
Riders are responsible for knowing and following the code. Failure to adhere to the code will result in suspension of riding privileges.
Pastoral Care
The MTB Coordinator will check in regularly with MTB Academy students and liaise between a student’s coach and parents/carers, ensuring all needs are met and concerns or issues are attended to. Assistance or modification of the programs can be arranged if needed.
Academic Care
During Term 1, MTBA students who miss class due to training, can attend afterschool academic support sessions at the school led by teaching staff or tutors to complete work. Academic support sessions are offered one afternoon per week when a Thredbo training session has resulted in students being absent from class.
Enduro programs miss very little class time and as such, these students can attend the normal Bright Sparks academic support sessions provided.
Bright Sparks runs on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, beginning at 3:45 pm in the Library, where teaching staff support students with their schoolwork/assignments. Arrangements can be made for students to receive lesson summaries, assignments and any necessary materials in advance.
Class teachers may also offer flexible deadlines or online resources to ensure students stay on track with their studies. It is important for students to maintain upto-date schoolwork and proactively communicate with their class teachers regarding any missed work.
Students are required to maintain or improve their personal academic standard. If a student consistently does not meet the required standard, they will be temporarily unable to attend rider training until they meet the standard.
Signing In and Out
MTB riders (Day and Boarding students) are required to follow the SMGS sign in and sign out procedure when departing/returning to SMGS at all times. This ensures all staff members are aware of a student’s location for safety and attendance reasons.
Fees and Insurance
Program Fees
Fees are specific to the MTB programs that students participate in and are available at your request. These fees are additional to the scheduled School Fees.
Thredbo Season Pass: Students must have a valid Summer access season pass to enter the MTBA and Gravity programs. This can be arranged through the school if not already acquired.
Key Contact: Director of Sport Insurance
Personal Property Insurance
It is the parents’ or carers’ responsibility to secure insurance cover for their child’s personal MTB property. We advise keeping valuable personal property to a minimum. Equipment is the personal responsibility of the student and loss or damage is not the responsibility of the School.
Personal Accident Insurance
We strongly recommend that all members of MTB programs have Private health insurance to benefit from their personal accident insurance.
The SMGS Personal Accident for Voluntary Workers Insurance policy offers limited coverage for injuries sustained by volunteers; we suggest that parents/carers and volunteers obtain their own personal insurance to protect against injuries (including death) year-round.
Personal Health Insurance
Due to the increased risk of serious injury associated with MTB activities, we strongly recommend that students have adequate health insurance to cover potential injuries, treatment and rehabilitation.
Refund Policy
In the event that an athlete is unable to complete the program owing to an injury related to the program, which will prevent their re-entering the program before the end of the season, there will be NO refunds made.
Photo Credit: Boen Ferguson
How to Apply
Selection Criteria for MTBA
Applicant selection will be made by the MTB Coordinator and Director of Sport.
• Rider Ability: Applicants should have experience on a variety of trails and locations, be comfortable and proficient riding blue trails and able to ride some black terrain/obstacles. For programs involving Thredbo, previous experience riding at Thredbo or similar terrain is highly desirable.
• School Performance: We will consider each student’s attitude, effort and behaviour at school. The MTB Coordinator will seek approval from the relevant Heads of School for all applicants.
• Character: Students wishing to join the program will be part of a supportive, positive and dedicated team. The focus is on personal growth in both academics and athletics. Applicants should embody the school values of Courage, Authenticity, Respect and Empathy.
Applications
To apply for the MTB Academy, students must be in Years 6 to Year 11. Parents/carers and their child/ren are asked to fill out the online application form sent via Sentral notifications.
An ‘Applications Open’ notice is sent to parents/carers and students during the previous school term.
Our selection panel will review all applications based on set criteria (see selection criteria previously outlined). Applicants will receive an email from our MTB Coordinator to notify them of the outcome of their application.
Those students who are not successful can select their preferred Wednesday Sport option.
For more information, please contact the MTB Coordinator.
FAQs
Who is eligible to participate in the Mountain Biking Programs?
In order to participate in the program, the athlete must:
• Be enrolled at SMGS as a permanent student.
• Have communicated with the MTB Coordinator and Director of Sport and have had their application approved.
How old do I have to be to participate in the Mountain Biking Programs?
The school considers applications on an individual basis and you can discuss this with the MTB Coordinator. There are a variety of programs available, depending on your child’s age and ability. For the MTBA program, the student must be in Year 6 to Year 11.
How old do I have to be to be a residential student at SMGS?
You must be in Year 7 or above to join the SMGS Boarding House.
What is the cost of participation in the Mountain Biking Program/Academy in 2024?
The Mountain Bike program costs vary depending on the program selected. Costs can be anywhere from $225 for the K-4 program to $965 for the MTBA program. These costings also vary depending on when and where the program takes place.
To ride in Thredbo, you must purchase a Thredbo Summer Season Mountain Bike Pass on top of the scheduled costs.
When is payment for the program due?
For participants, the program will be invoiced on your regular Mid-Term statement.
Is there a cap on the number of program participants?
The number of athletes who can be enrolled in the program/s may be limited by transport places and ability. Admission to the program will be based on the application and ability of the rider. Applications may be subject to an interview and/or riding skills test.
Is the program cost refundable in case of injury?
In the event that an athlete is unable to complete the program owing to an injury related to the program, which will prevent their re-entering the program before the end of the season, there will be NO refunds made.
What does the fee cover?
The program/s fee covers:
• qualified and experienced coaches,
• transport to and from all trail networks,
• entry to the National Park,
• SMGS supervising staff member/s at the trails during the program,
• MTBA tuition sessions (Term 1 only),
• race and events support,
• MTB mentoring sessions and support and
• liaison through the Director of Sport, MTB Coordinator and MTB supervisors.
The program fees are additional to the scheduled SMGS school fees.
Can I choose some parts of the program but not others?
The program/s has been created to offer the best possible support to our athletes to enable them to achieve their personal best, academically and physically. In order to ensure all participants benefit from this holistic approach, it is not possible to select only parts of the program.
I’m already enrolled at SMGS; what are my costs?
Additional costs will be rider safety equipment, bike and Baseline Concussion Testing (compulsory for all MTBA riders, Term 1 and highly recommended for Gravity sport riders). To ride in Thredbo, you must purchase a Thredbo Summer Season Mountain Bike Pass on top of the scheduled costs.
Can I be collected from somewhere other than school for transport to the resorts?
No, due to the tight timetable, all students must assemble at school for transport and arrive by the scheduled time.
How does MTBA work with the day school?
In order to maximise learning outcomes, MTB athletes participate in as many lessons as possible within the normal day school timetable. The only athletes who will miss classes are the MTBA students who are absent for full days and can receive additional support through specific MTBA tutorial sessions to cover items for which they were not present in class (Term 1 only). The MTB Coordinator and supervisors will assist MTBA athletes plan and complete their academic work.
What uniform items am I required to wear?
All MTB athletes (except K-4 programs) are expected to wear their SMGS MTB jersey whilst executing the schools MTB programs and representing the school in MTB competitions. These can be purchased from the SMGS Uniform shop.
Do MTB participants require private health insurance?
Yes. All MTB participants should have private health insurance of an appropriate level for the activity undertaken.
Our students, while enrolled at the school, are also covered, through which parents/carers can claim some items. Cover commences when the student begins classes at the school. This insurance is ancillary to, and does not replace, private health insurance.
Do MTB participants require private property insurance?
The school does not carry insurance for students’ personal effects, such as bikes and safety equipment. As these items can be expensive, the school recommends that families ensure such items are covered under their own insurance.
How do the MTB programs work with the Boarding House?
Residential MTB students will participate as far as possible in the normal Boarding House timetable. Residential students will be supplied with packed meals rather than eating in-house where their training timetable dictates.
What support does the school offer for race attendance?
The school offers staff supervision, transport, race support and basic mechanical support at the SMGS team tent for our students officially attending MTB Interschools and the Cannonball Festival.
How can I prepare for the season?
MTB athletes are strongly encouraged to participate in a tailored and specific MTB conditioning program prior to the MTB season in order to build and maintain appropriate fitness for the MTB season. These should be organised independently with local providers.
Do I need to compete in MTB events?
If you are a member of the MTBA, it is expected that you represent SMGS at the MTB Interschools event.
How do I access teaching support when I am competing at other events?
Athletes can access their work and contact their teachers from any location via our online Learning Management System, Canvas or via email. The MTB Coordinator and SMGS staff can provide an actual point of contact for athletes while away at competitions.
How do I get home if I attend the after-school academic sessions - (MTBA – Term 1 only)?
Non-residential students must arrange their own transport home if they are staying after school to attend academic sessions.
Should I get Concussion Baseline Testing before the season?
Athletes are strongly encouraged to get Concussion Baseline Testing prior to the commencement of the season. The MTB Coordinator will be organising a session for this at the beginning of the season with Elevate Physio using Baseline Testing. There is an extra cost associated with this and further information will be available closer to the date.
Please note: Term 1 MTBA students must provide a recent Baseline Concussion Testing result to be eligible to enter the Academy.
Success Stories
Jobe Gentle, Class of 2022
I have competed in over 15 World Cups over three seasons, Crankworx events and been in multiple National Championships. I have had some awesome results and been on the podium. This includes Interschools riding for Snowy Mountains Grammar School.
I believe the MTB program at SMGS helped me gain the skills I needed on a bike to compete at such a high level. Without this training, I think it would have been much harder or almost impossible. Over the last three years, I have got to visit 23 countries whilst travelling to races. This again has been a huge benefit to racing bikes.
(Pictured left)
Rennie Falconer, Class of 2023
I have competed in the 2023 and 2024 World Cup circuit under the New Zealand Federation as well as Crankworx Rotorua in 2022 and 2023.
I have been racing bikes since I was 12 years old and have built a strong passion for the sport. I found the passion for racing at a young age from competing on a snowboard at Interschools for SMGS and from then on, I have been hooked.
(Pictured middle)
Madeline Lloyd – Year 7, 2024
I have been riding bikes since I was 3. I started riding Gravity when I first moved to Jindabyne in 2018 and racing at age 7.
I enjoy racing across all disciplines of MTB from Cross Country, Pump Track to Downhill. Thredbo is my favourite place to ride especially with all my friends, but I also enjoy travelling to other areas to ride like Narooma, Greenvalleys MTB Park, Bright and Stromlo. This season I am really looking forward to racing in all the local events, maybe doing some travel to compete in some other events and participating in the Mountain Bike Academy with SMGS where I will work on developing my riding skills even further. I have achieved success at the State and National level (U13 - Down Hill, XC and Gravity Enduro National champion). I have taken out the Thredbo Gravity Series on three occasions and been crowned Queen of the Mountain in the 2022, 2023 and 2024 Australian MTB Interschools and 2023 and 2024 Cannonball Festival.
(Pictured right)
Photo Credit: Boen Ferguson
Snowy Mountains Grammar