The Capricorn Coast will welcome a modern-day explorer next month, with adventurer Ed Darmanin stopping in Yeppoon as part of an historic attempt to become the first person to circumnavigate mainland Australia on an electric motorcycle.
Departing from Sydney, Ed is undertaking the epic 18,000-kilometre journey alone and unsupported, traversing every state and territory aboard an Energica Experia electric motorcycle. With no support vehicle, no crew and no accompanying rider, the success of the expedition rests entirely on Ed and his machine.
Like the pioneering travellers who once pushed the limits of what was possible, Ed’s journey is as much about the spirit of adventure as it is about the destination. Through careful planning, an appetite for the unknown and a willingness to challenge convention, he is redefining what modern exploration looks like in the electric age.
While the expedition itself is a solo undertaking, Ed’s wife Sally will join him as a passenger for sections between Airlie Beach and Cairns, and later from Broome to Perth, while son Evan will accompany him between Cairns and Mount Isa via Normanton — sharing in parts of an adventure that is creating memories for the whole family.
As he rolls into Yeppoon, the Capricorn Coast becomes one of many regional communities helping shape this remarkable story. These places are more than simply charging stops; they are where stories are shared, friendships are formed and the true character of Australia is experienced.
During his visit, Ed will present a free public talk at the Rosslyn Bay Coast Guard building, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the months of planning involved in taking on such an ambitious challenge. He will share stories from previous adventures, explain the logistics of crossing Australia on electric power and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the future of sustainable travel.
At a time when Australians are increasingly embracing road trips and electric vehicles, Ed’s journey demonstrates that the pioneering spirit which inspired generations of explorers is alive and well — only now it is powered by batteries instead of fuel.
Event Details
What: Meet Ed Darmanin – Doing the Big Lap on an Electric Motorcycle
When: Wednesday 1 July 2026
Time: 7.30pm – 8.30pm
Where: Coast Guard Building
22 Anchor Drive, Rosslyn Bay, Yeppoon
Cost: Free
Guests attending the presentation will have the opportunity to donate in support of the Coast Guard.
Members of the media are invited to attend and meet Ed during his stop on the Capricorn Coast.
Ed is available for interviews and photographs in Rockhampton during the afternoon of Wednesday 1 July, and in Yeppoon during the day on Thursday 2 July.
Media Opportunities
- Interview with Ed Darmanin
- Vision and photographs of the Energica Experia electric motorcycle
- Human-interest story on the first electric circumnavigation of mainland Australia
- Electric vehicle infrastructure and sustainable travel
- A contemporary take on the Australian spirit of exploration and adventure
