Bathurst 1000 for First Timers — The Guide I Wish We’d Had

For as long as I can remember, Bathurst weekend meant sitting with Dad watching cars racing on the mountain. Fifty years later, I finally stood there myself!

Dad always thought it was too rough and not the place for a young girl so we would watch it on the TV. It took sponsoring a friend in the development Toyota GAZOO Racing GR-Cup to make the trek to Mount Panorama for the Bathurst 1000.

We woke to the sound of engines rumbling as they warmed up. As we walked from our camp to the track through the Paddock alongside the track with thousands of other campers we could hear the cars screaming down Conrod Straight. You can actually tell which category was on the track by the pitch and volume of the cars.

Did it live up to the legendary status? Absolutely! Dad would have loved it!

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What Is the Bathurst 1000?

The Bathurst 1000, known as the Great Race, is Australia’s most iconic endurance car race and Supercar Enduro Championship round held at Mount Panorama, Bathurst located in central west of New South Wales.

The four-day event held in October each year (October 8-11, 2026 this year) includes practice, qualifying, support categories culminating with the main race, an epic 1000km, 161 lap supercar endurance event.

Each year, around 200,000 people attend the event including 25,000 die-hard motoring fanatics and their families who camp next to the track on their annual motorsport pilgrimage. But it’s not just for racing fans, it’s also a fantastic opportunity for non-motorsport families to enjoy the festival and explore some of regional NSW for a memorable weekend.

How to Get Tickets

The cheapest option is to purchase race day only ticket. However, for not much more you can get a 4- day pass. There are also packages for Pit Lane walks, Grandstand reserved tickets and more. Purchase tickets directly through the Supercars website.

Buy your Bathurst 1000 tickets.

Understanding the Track Layout – “The Mountain Explained”

I get it, with terms like the pits, Conrod, Skyline and the Dipper can all be a bit overwhelming for first timers. At the end of this section, you’ll feel like an old-timer.

The Pits

This is where all the action happens. Car must come into the pits (kinda like a garage) to refuel, change brakes, tyres and drivers. When an accident, the safety car comes out. Cars are slowed down and no overtaking is permitted. Teams take the opportunity to pit as this time has the least impact on track position. I mean, everyone pits and pit lane becomes absolutely chaotic.

Pit Lane

A separate roadway providing access to the pits with a speed limit of 40km/hr, (rigorously enforced) runs adjacent to Pit Straight.

Pit Straight

Also known as the Main Straight, Starting or Finishing Straight. This is where the entire field of 25-28 Supercars (The Gazoo Cup packs in 30-35 Toyota 86s) line up to start the race. This is also the location of the main grandstand which overlooks the start/finish line, Pit Straight and the Pits for all the pit lane action.

Hell Corner

Aptly named, Hell Corner is the first corner of the race and it is a rarity for all cars to gets through the turn without any panel damage. During the race, cars approach the corner at roughly 210km/hr, taking the corner at around 100km/hr!

Position yourself correctly and you can see Pit Straight, Mountain Straight, Hell Corner and a big screen. One of the best spectator locations on the track.

Mountain Straight

A 1.11km straight with a gradient of 1 in 6.13, cars reach speeds of 250km/hr. To add to the drama, half-way up the straight is the Crest, a blind rise in the road where the cars can become airbourne.

Griffins Bend

At the end of Mountain Straight, cars brake to around 130km/hr before entering a blind, off camber corner with concrete walls providing no room for error known as Griffins Bend.

The Cutting

The Cutting is a blind left hander cut into the mountain. With a 1:6 gradient, it’s the steepest park of the track one of the most unforgiving turns. Get it wrong, and you’ll pay for it across the top of the mountain – that’s if you make it that far.

Skyline

Skyline is one of the most technically challenging sections of the track where drivers are fully committed. With concrete barriers on each side with no margin for error, you can hear the crowd roar when a car goes sideways and this stretch has certainly seen its fair share of carnage.

Crest the skyline, and that’s all the drivers can see – just the skyline as the track falls away beneath them. If you think it looks dramatic on TV, in reality it looks ridiculous. It’s an awesome spot for photographers.

The Esses

One of the most demanding sections of the track, this fast downhill left-right-left feels like you’re on a rollercoaster, not in a race car. Get it wrong and you’ll be in the wall. TV doesn’t do this section of the track justice, it is seriously steep and it looks like the cars are falling down the hill. Fans and photographers love it – guaranteed entertainment.

The Dipper

Through the Dipper, Supercars are still travelling at between 130 – 170km/hr, with a drop of 1 in 7, it’s the steepest down hill section of the track. Get it right and the Supercar’s suspension bottom’s out, sparks fly and drivers are on autopilot, relying on muscle memory with little time to react. In the wet, it’s sketchy at best.

Spectators love the Dipper, it’s brutal on the cars and requires raw courage and commitment of the drivers. It is one of the places TV hints at the steepness of the circuit.

Forrest’s Elbow

This sharp left hander is named after Jack Forrest, who crashed his motorcycle there in 1920. Over the years, there have been many spectacular crashes.

Dick Johnson crash the #17 Green Machine in 1983 during the Hardies’s Heroes Top 10 shoot out is legendary. The car understeered going around the corner at 100km/hr, hit the tyre barrier and broke the steering arm. The Falcon XE launched into a grove of trees and was obliterated.

Rather than withdrawing from the race, he sourced another Ford Falcon chassis, stripped all the usable parts from the wreck, and worked throughout the night with the TAFE apprentices and volunteers to have a car ready for the race start.

Probably the most controversial race finish occurred at Forrest Elbow in 1992. Jim Richards was leading in the Nissan GT-R “Godzilla” in horrendous rain, where visibility was virtually non-existent. Richards, first got into trouble through the Cutting, damaging the front suspension and almost ripping the wheel off. The master in the wet, somehow managed to keep the wounded car going over the top of the mountain but ended up aqua-planing at Forrest Elbow, slammed into the wall and slid down the hill into an existing multi-car crash. The car was destroyed.

At almost the exact same time, the race was red flagged due to the dangerous and undrivable conditions and crashes happening everywhere. As per the rules, the driver positions were counted back on the last fully completed lap. So, unbelievably, the fully wrecked car still won the race even though Johnson and Bowe crossed the line and thought they had won. The Ford fans were furious at the result

Conrod Straight

Conrod Straight is 1.9km of straight downhill exhilaration, where Supercars exceed 300km/hr, almost lifting of the track before braking at the Chase. The name “Conrod” is short for connecting rod, referencing an old engine failure suffered there early in Bathurst racing history.

The scream of the engines at full revs as they fly down Conrod Straight is electric, far louder than you can imagine from the TV. Then there is slipstreaming, where the rear car catches a ride, then slingshots past before the braking zone providing fans with the will he or won’t he type passing manoeuvres.

The Chase

In 1987, the Chase was added into Conrod Straight to provide a safer braking option than straight into Murray’s Corner. It’s one of the hardest braking zones in Australian motorsport, braking from 300+ km/hr, the cars pull around 2G. It’s easy to lock a wheel or overshoot. The sand traps a.k.a. kitty litter provide much needed safety option for out-of-control cars and can provide spectacular re-entries and crashes for the fans.

Murray’s Corner

This is the final corner before the run onto Pit Straight and across the finish line. Should be simple, just a simple 90-degree left hander. But with deep braking, rear lock-ups, wheel spins and a little bit of bumping, provides one of the best overtaking spots on the track.

Now you’re a pro and can speak the lingo.

Where to Watch the Race – Best Viewing Spots for First Timers

Pit Straight / Main Grandstand

You’re looking directly at the start/finish line and opposite the Pits, so you have first-hand view of most of the action. There are huge screens so you can also watch the TV footage so you know what is happening around the rest of the track. To access the Main Grandstand, you will need to purchase grandstand tickets starting from $346 for a 4-day pass. The Main Grandstand is NOT covered. The sun is brutal and the weather at the track is changeable and unpredictable.

Pros

• Great atmosphere
• Pit action
• Big screens
• Easy access to food/toilets
• Backs on to Merchandise Alley if you need some retail therapy
• Closest to the main gates so least amount of walking.

Cons

• Busy
• Can feel crowded

Hell Corner

This is one of our favourite spots. Sitting on a hill section looking up Mountain Straight, you can also watch the start, Pit Straight and all the action that Hell Corner is known for. You can also see a big screen to keep you up to date. Adjacent, there is another spectator area that looks down the Main Straight but you can’t see the big screen from there.

Pros

• Overtaking opportunites
• Close racing particularly at the start and after restarts
• Guaranteed action (bumps, spins and loose cars)

The Chase

The Chase is awesome. You can see the cars coming all the way down Conrod Straight, you lose them for a second until they come over the rise and into the Chase. The noise is next level here as the cars are at full revs, nothing can prepare you for the noise. Now, this is not a location for those with a sore neck as you are likely to get whiplash with the cars travelling so fast!

Pros

• Incredible speed
• Overtaking opportunities
• Less crowded than pit lane

Skyline & The Esses

This is a supercool place to watch the race and there is a big screen opposite the hill on which you sit. Camping chairs recommended. The temperature up the top of the mountain can be significantly cooler than the bottom of the track.

Pros

• Famous TV shots
• Spectacular viewing
• Some shade

Cons

• Harder access. Either camp up the mountain or catch the shuttle bus. It can take hours at the end of the main race to get a shuttle down the mountain.
• Limited facilities

Forrest’s Elbow

We didn’t get to Forrest’s Elbow but the viewing area is similar to Skyline.

Pros

• Amazing driver skill
• Cars launching onto Conrod

Cons

• Harder access. Either camp up the mountain or catch the shuttle bus. It can take hours at the end of the main race to get a shuttle down the mountain.
• Limited facilities

Viewing Tips

If you get a multi-day pass, scope out the various locations and pick your favourite for race day.

Check the weather forecast. The local weather forecast gives hints as to the different weather conditions at the bottom of the track vs the top of the mountain.

• Try to position near a big screen
• Bring fold-up chairs
• Arrive EARLY!
• Sun protection, rain protection and jumpers.
• Portable radio/headphones for commentary
• Water bottles (to passthrough the entry checkpoints must be sealed when). Free refill stations available.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Camping at Bathurst – “What It’s Really Like Staying at the Track”

The Campgrounds and Booking a Site.

We stayed in the campground called “the Paddock” adjacent to the Chase. There are also campgrounds near Hell Corner and on the Mountain. The campgrounds at the bottom of the track appeared to be more family friendly. Camp sites are made available to returning campers prior to going on public sale. Camp sites can sell out in hours (read – Taylor Swift).

Book a trackside camp site. (Official site)

Campgrounds at the track are BOOKED OUT FOR 2026! (18 May 2026 – sold out in 90 minutes). Camp sites may become available for re-sale. See link above for details.

We brought our caravan, some people had hired motorhomes, others had rooftop tents but the majority had large tents and identified their camps with HUGE flags. Luckily, our campsite was located under the main power lines, so we didn’t get lost. Most campsites are unpowered so many people used portable generators. There are some powered sites but these rarely make it to public sale.

I was surprised how many had brought large screen TVs and lounges. One group had obviously been coming for years, as they had set up their own “bar” on a corner. The campground had a real community feel, everyone was friendly.

We camped as a family, at no time did myself or my daughters feel unsafe. The race organisers have done a great job over the years to clean up the hooligan behaviour of the past to make the event family friendly. However, I was aware there were proportionately less women and children up the top of the mountain.

Check the weather

We had excellent weather when we went to Bathurst. The skies were clear making for cold nights (near freezing) to around 25 degrees during the day. When there was no wind, it was hot.

However, the Paddock, is just as it sounds, is a paddock and should there have been any rain, would’ve turned very muddy. In that case, gumboots would be a great idea.

Check the weather forecast

Camp Fires

When the skies are clear, it gets really cold overnight. Most people kept warm around fire pits. Fires must be contained in metal drum or similar. Firewood can be purchased just outside the entry gates to the campground. Be prepared for EVERYTHING to smell of the smoke from the wood fires.

Facilities

The campgrounds are provided with portable toilets and shower facilities. Lines for the showers can get long. Thongs are recommended for the showers. Whilst the council empties the facilities regularly, by Sunday morning they are, shall we say less than desirable. Some campers actually hired their own personal portable toilet for the weekend.

This will likely be one of your strongest sections because of your personal experience.

Noise Levels

The campground was quieter than expected. There weren’t huge parties, just people talking around the fire pits and drinking beers. BUT in the morning – well that’s another story. You WILL be woken up by car engines by 7.15am.

Walking distances

Be prepared to walk. It took us 10 minutes just to get to the track entry gates. It took a couple of minutes to walk to our closest facilities. If you have small children, prams or folding trolley that the kids can jump into when their little legs get tired are advisable. They also beat carrying your camping chairs.

Alcohol

Alcohol is limited to “a slab a day per person”. No glass is permitted. Your vehicle, including a motorhome or caravan will be searched each time you enter the campground. You can only bring one day supply of alcohol per person per day through the checkpoints into the campground. Follow this link for the latest on alcohol restrictions.

Police presence during race week is huge in Bathurst. RBT stops are everywhere. Don’t drink and drive.

Helpful packing checklist ideas

• Earplugs. Noise cancelling headsets for young children.
• Warm clothes
• Wet weather gear
• Power banks
• Folding trolley
• Fire pit
• Thongs for the showers
• Toilet paper
• Headlamp
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hat and sunscreen
• Fire pit
• Esky with ice
• Tie down ropes and pegs for tent and marquee. It does get windy.
• Flags!

Alcohol Restrictions & Event Rules

Event Rules

No alcohol or glass is permitted to be brought into the event. These are strict and bag searches are carried out at every entry gate. Alcohol may be purchased inside the venue from licensed outlets. Be prepared for long lines and high prices.

Water bottles may be brought in provided they are sealed. Refillable water bottles must be tipped out. There are refill stations throughout the venue.

Campground Rules

Alcohol is limited to “a slab a day per person”. No glass is permitted. Your vehicle, including a motorhome or caravan will be searched each time you enter the campground. You can only bring one day supply of alcohol per person per day through the checkpoints into the campground.

A slab a day per person

Follow this link for the latest alcohol restrictions.

Accommodation Outside the Track

When trackside camping is booked out. What are the alternatives?

Bathurst

Bathurst has many hotels/motels. Prices go through the roof for race week and many have minimum number of nights. These are booked out early.

There are also caravan parks and the showground is also open for camping.

A shuttle bus operates from the CBD, major hotels and campgrounds to the race track. No need to pre-book parking, walk ages to the gate or worry about drinking and driving. The shuttle will drop you at the gate.

Alternatively, AirBnB may be a good option for families.

When Bathurst is booked out, consider nearby towns for a cheaper option.

Lithgow

Travel time to Bathurst: 1 hour

If you are travelling from Sydney, Lithgow breaks up the travel time. With the Great Western Highway still closed, staying in Lithgow reduces the risk of getting stuck in traffic.

Buslines Group operate shuttle buses to the race from Lithgow.

Orange

Travel time to Bathurst: 1 hour

Make the most of your weekend and explore the wineries in and around Orange.

Buslines Group operate shuttle buses to the race from Orange.

Parkes

Travel time to Bathurst: 2 hours

If you are more interested in astronomy, Parkes is a good option. You can do some star gazing at “The Dish”, a giant radio telescope.

Mudgee

Travel time to Bathurst: 1 hour 45 minutes

Mudgee is getting a reputation as the next Hunter Valley, with over 30 cellar doors and boutique stays.

Be inspired by my guides Best Things to Do in Mudgee (beyond the wineries) and How to Spend an Evening in Mudgee.

Summing it up

• Camping trackside: Best for atmosphere and die-hard fans.
• Bathurst: Best for those wanting a little more comfort but relatively close to the action or fans with multi-day tickets
• Surrounding towns: Best for fans attending the Big Race only and wanting the explore more of the region.

If you are looking for atmosphere, camping at the track is the way to go. Waking up to the roar of car engines is definitely unique and walking to the gate entry removes any traffic hassles. Would I camp trackside again? Absolutely!

How to Get Around the Mountain

During the Bathurst 1000, the track (which during the year is a public roadway) is closed to the public except for designated times to allow residents access to their property.

There is a roadway along the side of the track to access the camping grounds at the top of the mountain. Across the 4-day weekend, shuttle buses run from behind Merchanise Alley to the top of the Mountain for $10 for a return trip. We went up the mountain on the Saturday, and the service was regularly and efficient. We were told, on Sunday after the race, it can take more than an hour to get the shuttle buses back down.

At the top of the mountain, the roadway backs the viewing areas of the track. For everywhere else, there are dirt walking tracks. It was dry when we were there, so we had no problems. I imagine that if it is wet, that these tracks could become quite slippery.

“Be Prepared to Walk”

It took almost 30 mins to walk from Murrays Corner to Hell Corner through Merchandise Alley. On race day, it became quite congested and walking times increased.

Family Guide to Bathurst 1000

Is Bathurst Family Friendly?

Absolutely, Bathurst is kid friendly. Most of the viewing areas are on embankments or grandstands, so even if you are short, you they can still see. I saw a lot of 3 generation families and younger kids were all wearing noise cancelling headsets – it gets really loud! My teenagers loved Bathurst too.

However, as with any big events, there are crowds and long walking distances. Lots of families with very young children had foldable trolleys so the kids could get a ride when their legs got tired. I’d also write your phone number on your children’s arm just in case you get separated.

Kids’ at Bathurst Checklist

• Ear protection
• Sunscreen
• Layers
• Snacks
• ID wristbands for little kids
• Wagon/stroller considerations

The event organisers have done a fantastic job to make the Mountain family friendly, controlling alcohol consumption, cracking down on unruly behaviour, lots of entertainment between races and games to play in Merchandise Alley.

I recommend everyone to go to Bathurst 1000 at least once. I’m sure that Dad would have felt completely at ease with today’s Bathurst.

Weather at Bathurst

Weather at the mountain in October is notoriously unpredictable. Not to mention, the weather at the top of the mountain can be completely different from the bottom.

4 seasons in one day.

Morning

• Usually cold
• Temperatures can start around 5–10°C
• Heavy dew and fog are common
• Campsites can feel icy early

If you’re camping:

• warm jackets,
• beanies,
• thermals,
• and decent sleeping gear make a huge difference.

Midday & Afternoon

• Can quickly warm into the low-to-mid 20s°C
• Strong sun exposure
• Very little shade around many spectator areas

Even on cooler days, the sun can be surprisingly harsh because you spend hours outdoors.

Wind on the Mountain

The top of the circuit:

• Skyline,
• The Esses,
• McPhillamy,
  can feel dramatically windier and colder than pit straight.

A calm sunny day at the bottom can feel almost wintery at the top. Windproof jackets and beanies/akubras are recommended.

This catches first timers out all the time.

Rain

October can bring:

• sudden showers,
• passing storms,
• and rapidly changing conditions.

That unpredictability is part of Bathurst folklore and often affects race strategy.

What to Pack for Bathurst Weather

In a nutshell, you need to be prepared for any weather. It’s freezing in the morning but warms up quickly provided the wind doesn’t blow. And what would Bathurst be without some rain thrown in to really challenge the race teams and drivers.

We were so lucky to have beautiful clear skies and warm weather but as soon as the breeze arrived, it felt a lot colder especially up at Skyline. Nights were clear with a million stars in the sky making it near freezing and in the morning, fog covered the Paddock (campground) until the sun burnt it away.

Here are my recommendations on what you’ll need to stay comfortable.

Essentials

• Layers
• Waterproof jacket
• Beanie
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Comfortable waterproof shoes
• Warm clothes for night
• Foldable rain poncho

Trackside Entertainment & Atmosphere

Bathurst isn’t just about the Supercars and the Big Race. There are lots of support categories which feature up and coming drivers and categories without the enormous budgets.

Support categories

• Porsche Carrera Cup: The top tier one-make championship featuring identical 500HP GT-3s. These things scream.
• Toyota GAZOO Racing Australia GR-CUP: One make series designed to foster up and coming talent. This is what we were here to support.
• Dunlop Super2 Series: Drivers are one step away from the big time.
• V8 SuperUte Series: High performance utes, basically utes on steroids providing door-to-door racing action.
• Touring Car Masters: Nostalgic muscle cars from 1960s to 1990s. Supercool.

More Than Just Racing

Merchandise Alley

Just behind the main grandstand, is Merchandise Alley where you are purchase just about anything to support your favourite team. Hats, flags, T-shirts, windproof jackets, scarves, beanies (if you have forgotten anything, you are sure to find it here). They even have little camping chairs (not recommended for larger people!) and competitions.

Driver Appearances

During the lead up to the main event, there are driver appearances in town with a parade down the main street and at various pubs during the week. Check out the Supercars website closer to the day for exact details.

Pit Stop Challenge

Each year, teams compete against each other to determine which team has the best teamwork to complete a pit stop the quickest. Best vantage point for this challenge is the Pit Straight Grandstand.

Look to the Sky

If you want a different perspective on the event, you can take a helicopter for a quick 10 minute spin.

During the weekend, you’ll also be entertained by the RAAF Roulettes, the elite aerobatic display team flying 6 Pilatus PC-21 turbo prop trainers.

At night, drones lit up the night sky with a fabulous 20-minute display which could be seen from everywhere around the track, and probably in Bathurst too.

On Track Entertainment

Between races, the Boost Pro Drift Team and Hot Wheels delight the crowd with their burnouts and wheel spins.

National Motor Racing Museum

The National Motor Racing Museum is located at Murrays corner. Opened in 1988 by legendary Peter Brock, this is the ultimate shrine to Australian motorsport history. For only $15, you can take a trip down memory lane with a constantly evolving collection of over 100 historic racing cars and motorcycles. Definitely worth it for racing fans.

Find out more with our guide on the National Motor Racing Museum – Is it Worth It?

FAQs

Is Bathurst 1000 worth it for non-race fans?

Absolutely. Some of the best touring car racing in the world, fantastic atmosphere, endless action, chararcters to meet (especially up the top of the mountain) and the perfect excuse to explore central west NSW to complete the weekend.

Is a 4- day pass worth it?

If you are a racing fan, totally. You are able to explore all the viewpoints of the track on the lead up days without the crowds, enjoy the on track and off track entertainment, meet the drivers in town during the week and enjoy all the thrills and spills that the support categories provide.

Is Bathurst safe for families?

Yes, Bathurst is safe for families. Though on race day, the crowds get huge. Make sure you keep your kids close, write your phone number on their arm and for the little ones, protect their ears with head sets.

Is the event wheelchair accessible?

Yes, there are designated raised platforms specifically designed for wheelchairs. You need a special pass and you can be accompanied by your carer.

What should first timers bring?

Be prepared for variable weather. Wear layers, bring sun protection and wet weather gear. You’ll also want camping chairs (unless you have grandstand tickets), comfortable shoes (yes you’ll be walking a lot) and money. Be prepared to queue for food and drinks at typical big event prices.

Can you take alcohol into Bathurst?

No alcohol can be brought onto the track. Bags are searched at security check points. Water bottles and soft drink bottles must be sealed when going through check points. No glass is permitted. Alcohol can be purchased inside the venue. Be prepared for long lines.

Where is the best place to watch Bathurst 1000?

Personally, I love Hell Corner. You get the best of Pit Straight, Mountain Straight, overtaking moves at the corner and can see the rest of the coverage on the big screen. The Chase is great as well or the top of the mountain near Skyline and the Esses is your go to for atmosphere.

Can you camp at Mount Panorama?

Approximately 25,000 people camp at Bathurst each year. Campsites are offered to returning campers first before public sale in May. Campsites are limited and can sell out in hours.

How early should you book accommodation?

Book accommodation as early as possible. Some stays such as Rydges sell out over a year in advance. Be prepared for huge increases in accommodation prices during race week.

Is there phone reception at the track?

Yes, there is phone reception at the track.

How much walking is involved?

There is a LOT of walking involved. Wear comfortable shoes. A well managed shuttle bus service is available to get to the top of the mountain. It cost $10/person for a return trip.

What’s the weather like at Bathurst in October?

Weather at the mountain in October is notoriously unpredictable. Expect 4 seasons in one day. Not to mention, the weather at the top of the mountain can be completely different from the bottom.

Mornings are often cold starting around 5–10°C. By midday, it warms into the low-to-mid 20s°C. There is very little shade around the track so bring sun protection and water.

At the top of the track, McPhillamy, the Esses and Skyline, the wind can make it feel almost wintery.

And then there is the rain! Race teams and commentators have one eye on the radar at all times, as the rain, whilst inconvenient to spectators, can cause carnage on the track if cars are caught with their slick tyres on a wet track.

Are kids allowed in all camping areas?

Yes, kids are allowed in all camping areas.

Can you move around the track during the race?

Yes, you can move around the track during the race, however all bridges crossing the roadway are closed during racing, practice and qualifying. There is no access to the pits.

No Regrets

The Bathurst 1000 is one of those events that truly defines the Australian spirit. The atmosphere and the noise are indescribable. I was surprised at how steep the track actually is and how different the various categories sounded, and OMG, how fast do those supercars actually go down Conrod straight! TV does not do it justice. It really is an event that must be experienced first-hand to really appreciate its greatness.

If you only go to one motorsport event in your lifetime, the Bathurst 1000 is it. There is no other motorsport like it. Just don’t wait 50 years, you won’t regret it.

I waited fifty years to make it to Bathurst. I only wish Dad had been standing beside me when those cars came over the top of the mountain.

Bathurst was only the beginning. Next stop: Gold Coast 500, where our Toyota Cup journey continues trackside.

If you found this guide useful, share it with your racing friends and family.