On the penultimate day of the Australian stage race, the peloton left McLaren Vale for 145 kilometres towards Willunga Hill. The double climb of the steep hill would be decisive. Unfortunately, Loe van Belle was involved in a crash in the opening phase of the race. The Dutchman had to abandon the race shortly afterwards.  

Nearing the final climb of Willunga Hill, the last escapees were caught by the peloton. With the help of his teammates, Gloag was able to start the final climb in an excellent position. GC favourites Narvaez, Javier Romo and Finn Fisher-Black managed to break away with an ultimate acceleration in the closing metres. Gloag crossed the finish line six seconds behind stage winner Narvaez. The British rider heads towards the final stage as eighth overall.   

"We rode an alert race", sports director Addy Engels said afterwards. "We knew the stage would be decided on Willunga Hill. Shortly before the foot of the climb, the peloton broke into pieces. We were surprised too, but a strong effort by his teammates allowed Thomas to start the final climb in an excellent position. It was another great result for him. Thomas had a lot of bad luck last year, so it is great that he can show himself right away in this season opener."  

On Sunday, the short final stage in Adelaide awaits. "We definitely want to try to go for a good result again with Matthew (Brennan)", Engels concludes. "There is definitely an opportunity for the fast riders. In addition, it will be important to defend Thomas' eighth place in the general classification."