28 November 2025
Coastal Lakes College student, Cooper Dunlop, has signed with Dutch cycling development team Gepla Watersley R&D Cycling for the 2026 European season.
Cooper Dunlop has signed with Dutch cycling development team Gepla Watersley R&D Cycling.
The Year 11 student has conquered numerous cycling disciplines nationwide and is set to continue his cycling journey across Spain, France, Italy, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
Cooper will start with an introduction camp in the Netherlands, then will return to Europe in February 2026 to begin his training and racing schedule.
Living and training in a world-class environment, designed for high-performance, Cooper will compete in the highly-regarded Cycling Spring Classics, a series of prestigious one-day races, among other European summer events.
“I’m incredibly excited for the journey ahead, not just the racing, but the opportunity to learn, grow and experience living independently overseas,” Cooper said, who was recently crowned Junior Sports Person of the Year at the 2025 Mandurah Sports Awards.
“I’m so grateful for the support I’ve received from teachers at Coastal Lakes College, who have always checked in and encouraged me along the way.
“Mr Longworth has been a huge mentor in my cycling and personal development. My dream is to one day race in the Tour de France and represent Australia at the Olympics.”
Paul Cooke, college Principal, said the school community was excited for Cooper as he takes the next step in his cycling career.
“Cooper has been an exceptional representative of Coastal Lakes College, and we are proud to have supported his journey along the way,” he said.
Read more about where Cooper is headed through the Watersley website.