Former Team Sky man Simon Gerrans delivered Australian team Orica-GreenEDGE’s first professional victory in this race in 2012, edging out Movistar’s Alejandro Valverde on count-back. He was unable to defend his title last season, but avenged his narrow defeat to the Spaniard on Old Willunga Hill by making it an Australia Day to remember for the home supporters as he beat Tom Jelte-Slagter to the prestigious queen stage victory. Having enjoyed a successful 2013, which also saw him wear the yellow jersey at the Tour de France, Gerrans has already kicked off the new season in style too – beating Cadel Evans (BMC Racing) and Richie Porte (Team Sky) to win the national road race.

And the 33-year-old, who also won this race in 2006, will want to mark his return to the national champion’s jersey with a strong showing in front of his home supporters. A support team including fellow former Team Sky man Mat Hayman – on his Orica-GreenEDGE debut – and South African Daryl Impey, who also wore the yellow jersey at the Tour last year, marks the Aussie team out as one to watch. After an encouraging season in 2013, which saw them continue to go from strength to strength, they are well set to improve further this season too – starting with their home race.