Between training sessions for this week's cycling event, Budget Forklifts riders Sam Witmitz and Jason Spencer spoke to about 100 schoolchildren on health, road safety and nutrition.

Woolsthorpe Primary School principal Simon Perry said pupils enjoyed the chance to meet high-level athletes after learning about different sports during the Olympic Games.

"We only have a few locals who ride their bikes to school but it was a good chance to talk about bike safety and the importance of wearing helmets, even on their home farms," Mr Perry said.

"Grade five and six students had to prepare questions about being professional athletes and it was a really good experience for the kids.

"The kids are getting really involved this week with classes doing some different activities around cycling and professional sports, all fitting in with the Olympic theme we've had going lately.

"We've got a sprint from the Tour of the Great South Coast finishing here on Friday so we'll be cheering on the Budget Forklift team, with the kids dressing in the yellow team colour.

Budget Forklift team manager Cameron Watt said the cyclists have spent most of their week either training or speaking to south-west primary school classes about road safety, healthy living, exercise and fun through cycling.

"The kids love getting out of the classroom and having some fun," he told The Standard.

"It's good to encourage interest in the sport as well.

"They spent yesterday and today going round to all local schools from Portland, Warrnambool, Port Fairy and they'll be in Heywood on Thursday before the stage begins."

j.pech@standard.fairfax.com.au