The former cross country skier, now in the Australian Institute of Sport team to compete in the European road racing season, was in a breakaway of three until late in the 106-kilometre race.

The title was taken out by West Australian Jessica Allen (VIS) who outsprinted Canberra’s Lisa Keeling (Bicycle Superstore) in the race to the line.

Recently crowned Oceania time trial champion Shara Gillow (Orica-AIS) claimed the bronze.

McConville, who finished fourth — about 2½ minutes behind the winner, was part of a five women breakaway which formed inside the first 10 kilometres and included Keeling, Allen, Jessica Mundy (Jayco-AIS) and Sophie Mackay (Specialized Securitor). However the pace through the hills proved too much for Mackay and Mundy who dropped off before Allen and Keeling also managed to shake McConville.

“I knew we had to get rid of Chloe McConville before the finish because she would out sprint us any day and once she was dropped I thought I could win it,” Allen said.

“I just wanted to get into the early break to have a crack, I didn’t think it was going to stay away, but when I looked at the composition of the break I had a good feeling.

“I don’t think it’s quite sunk in yet.”