Bewley, 22, who rides for Ballards Wellards Yamaha, went into the final day 22 seconds ahead of Kawasaki's Toby Price and held on to win by nine seconds to claim the Class 4 championship in one of the closest battles in the event's 31-year history.

"Words can't explain how I feel," Bewley said.

"It just shows how hard work can pay off."

Every rider in the top five of were riding 450cc machines and raced side by side in the event, however, Bewley was in the spotlight.

"I'm stoked to take the win, it was hard work but I took it day by day and concentrated on mistake-free tests and it really paid off," he said.

"I went into the event feeling really good about my chances, but knew I would have some tough opposition.

"It was hard to get started on opening day, it was very cold and we all had numb fingers which made it tough to feel the throttle and levers.

"I worked my way into it and was third by the end of Thurs- day, and found a better rhythm on the second day and began to get used to the trails and terrain.

"I kept pushing hard on day three and set up the lead, which I knew would be important for the final day's motocross test.

"I had a good, clean run after a long wait for our moto and was pleased to come home in third against some pretty big motocross names."

Bewley's teammate Kirk Hutton claimed the Class 3 championship on his 250cc 4-stroke, finishing outright sixth in an impressive effort.

Fellow Yamaha rider Alison Parker scored an incredible two minute win in the women's event.

Bewley now has the six day Australian Off-Road Championship in his sights.

"I really want to make a stand in that and be competing overseas one day - this is only the start of it," he said.