Organisers have secured a deal, which will see the race covered by national broadcaster SBS Television.

SBS is Australia’s leading cycling newscaster and covers the Tour de France and many other leading events from around the world.

They will screen a half hour highlights package of the Grafton to Inverell Classic on October 19.

With the newly-formed partnership with McDonalds and their local franchisee Chris Rodgers, event organisers have increased the prize list to $24,000.

The A grade section is sponsored by Inverell-born professional cyclist Heinrich Haussler.

Haussler, who rides for German Pro Tour team Gerolsteiner, is acting as ambassador for the race and has put $5000 of his own money up for the senior winner.

Minor placegetters will pocket $2500 for second and $1500 for third across the line.

The highlights package, to be screened on SBS, will be an important ingredient to the success of the race, and great exposure for the local tourism areas as well as sponsors.

Footage of the Grafton to Inverell Classic will be captured by John Rowley Video Management using three motorcycle cameras to get every bit of the action.

Organisers have also launched a new website with detailed information on this year’s event as well as a history of the 48 years since the race began.

To keep up to date go to www.graftontoinverellcycleclassic.com.au.