North Shore Sporting Car Club has announced its annual NSW Rally Championship event, formerly known as the Oberon Stages, will move to a new home in Bathurst in 2023.
After more than a decade based in Oberon, the decision to move the rally was not an easy one but will allow the event to take advantage of the more extensive infrastructure and commercial opportunities in Bathurst.
The 2023 Bathurst Rally will be round three of the NSW Rally Championship as well as playing host to the East Coast Classic Rally Series, The NSW Clubman Rally Series and The Hyundai Rally Series.
Event Director and Clerk of the Course, Jon Thomson said that while Oberon has been a great home for the rally, the reality is that Bathurst offers some major advantages in terms of accommodation, commercial support, and some fabulous roads.
“In order to grow the rally and to deliver an even better competitor experience we believe the move to Bathurst, a town that is traditionally considered the ‘Cradle of Australian Motor sport’, is a very exciting one.”
“The stages incorporate some of the best forestry and shire rally roads in the country and will provide some adrenalin-pumping action for both competitors and rally fans,” he said.
“We have found some fantastic roads that will thrill motorsport enthusiasts from around the country, and this new event promises an unparalleled experience that combines skill, speed, and a breathtaking natural backdrop,” he added.
As the organisers prepare for the Bathurst Rally, they invite participants and spectators alike to mark their calendars for an unforgettable rally event. Scheduled to take place on Saturday 23rd September, the 2023 Bathurst Rally will bring together top-class rally drivers, teams, and fans in a
celebration of motorsport excellence.
The event will take place in the picturesque city of Bathurst, known for its rich motorsport heritage and the legendary Mount Panorama Circuit as well as a long history of hosting both NSW and Australian Championship rallies over many decades.
A unique feature of the event will be the Service Park that will be located right in the centre of the city in Russell St alongside the Bathurst Regional Council Offices and the beautiful Bathurst War Memorial Park, allowing locals to get up close to all the service action bringing the colour and spectacle of the rally to the centre of town.
“Bathurst Regional Council and also Blayney Council have both been incredibly encouraging and helpful in allowing us to bring the event to their region and we’d like to thank them for all of their help and assistance,” said Thomson.
Competitors are set to take on a challenging course that will cover around 150km across 11 competitive special stages around Bathurst and Blayney. The rally will weave through some stunning countryside, offering a unique blend of great shire gravel and technical forestry roads. Competitors will be able to showcase their skills, teamwork, and strategic nous on some varied and challenging roads.
This year’s rally is sure to feature a diverse line-up of participants, ranging from leading ARC teams, top NSW and interstate crews, top classic competitors and up and coming Hyundai and Clubman competitors. Spectators will also have the chance to witness the fierce competition and the intense battles at several spectator points throughout the event.
The Bathurst Rally promises to be an extraordinary event celebrating the spirit of motorsport, camaraderie, and the thrill of speed in a controlled environment. Whether you’re a passionate fan, a rally aficionado, or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, this rally is not to be missed. Join us on the 23rd of September for an exhilarating adventure in the iconic Bathurst region.
Organisers are looking for volunteers to help with official duties at the Bathurst Rally and can contact bathurst@nsscc.com.au if they would like to be a volunteer official.
