- Expected to attract 4,000-strong crowd at weekend
- Supported by Eventscorp's Regional Events Scheme
All the action and excitement of national rally racing will hit Western Australia this weekend as Busselton and Nannup host the 28th annual Quit Forest Rally.
Tourism Minister Kim Hames said the 216km race would see some of the nation's top rally drivers battle it out through the forests of WA's South-West.
"Widely regarded as Australia's best rally region, Busselton and Nannup will play host to competitors from all over Australia for this national motoring event," Dr Hames said.
"With the rally evolving to also include a two-wheel drive competition, all eyes will be on 2010 two-wheel drive champion Eli Evans as he drives the Honda Jazz, recognised as the rally car of the future.
"The Classic Rally Car category will once again thrill crowds with four-time Australian Rally Champion Neal Bates, bringing a sense of nostalgia to this year's competition.
"These national champions will join competitors in up to 200 cars and bikes for the race, featuring two new categories this year - SUVs and side-by-side buggies."
Dr Hames said the Quit Forest Rally, funded by the State Government's Regional Events Scheme, would showcase WA's extraordinary South-West through national television coverage.
"This exciting event will be broadcast nationally on Channel Ten and ONE HD, with average audiences in previous years reaching 1.4 million people," Dr Hames said.
Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said the State Government's commitment to regional events was making a positive contribution to communities throughout the State.
"It's important that those who choose to live in our regions are able to enjoy a diverse range of events that celebrate what their region has to offer. With a significant $40million over four years Royalties for Regions' commitment to regional events, this is being achieved," Mr Grylls said.
Fact File
- The Quit Forest Rally is from March 30 to April 1, 2012
- More than 500 officials, volunteers support event which includes Shannons Busselton Sprint
- For more information, visit http://www.quitforestrally.com.au
Tourism Minister's office - 6552 5300
Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 5500
