Skip to main content
search
Category

Rally

Jun 12

Irish Rally Icon Frank Kelly to Join Lazer Rally of the Bay Field in Spectacular Australian Return

By News, Rally, Rally of the Bay 2025
Photo Credit: CMR Photographic

Irish Rally Icon Frank Kelly to Join Lazer Rally of the Bay Field in Spectacular Australian Return

The 2025 Shamrock Haulage NSW Rally Championship just got a serious dose of international flavour, with Irish rally legend Frank Kelly confirming he will contest the Lazer Rally of the Bay on August 2, bringing his legendary 1977 Ford Escort Mk2 “Baby Blue” to the forests of Batemans Bay.

This exciting development follows Kelly’s standout visit to Australian rallying at the Forest Rally in Western Australia, where he competed in Round Two of the EROAD Australian Rally Championship. Kelly and daughter/co-driver Lauren impressed with their pace and determination in the 2WD Classic Cup, thrilling fans with their trademark flamboyant style and sideways action.

The NSW rally community has rallied (pun intended) to make Frank’s Rally of the Bay drive possible. A passionate group of fans, local businesses, and motorsport supporters have come together to transport Frank and Baby Blue across from Perth, WA for one of the most anticipated events on the NSW rally calendar.

“It’s a real honour to be back in Australia and to now be heading to the east coast for a second rally this year is just incredible,” said Kelly. “The welcome we’ve received has been amazing—and I hear the Batemans Bay stages are fast and flowing, just how we like them!”

Frank’s entry into the Lazer Rally of the Bay has sent ripples through the rally scene, with several top contenders now looking to test themselves against the Irish master. Among those tipped to compete are:

  • Neal Bates – Australian rally royalty, fresh off a strong showing at the Bega Valley Rally, and hungry to trade times with Kelly in classic machinery.
  • Luke Sytema – A rising star from Victoria who’ll be in a similarly prepped Ford Escort, determined to mix it with the best.
  • Brendan Reeves – A seasoned rally driver with international experience, Reeves has competed in the WRC Academy and secured the 2013 Rally America 2WD title. In 2023, he clinched the Victorian 2WD Rally Championship, showcasing his prowess in both modern and classic rally vehicles.

And of course, the local Irish contenders such as:

  • Tom Dermody – A standout in the East Coast Classic Rally Series, the Queenslander is strongly considering throwing his hat in the ring to take on Kelly in the forests of the Bay.
  • Michael O’Hagan – A seasoned NSW competitor, O’Hagan is renowned for his consistent performances in the Classic category, piloting his Ford Escort Mk2 with precision and flair. He stands as one of the top-ranked Classic drivers in the state, making him a formidable contender in 2025.
  • Sean McAloon – A prominent figure in the NSW rally scene, McAloon is known for his skilful driving of the Ford Escort Mk2. He ranks among the top competitors in the state and at the recent Bega Valley Rally, McAloon impressed with a standout performance, setting the second quickest time on one of the stages, an incredible feat in a classic car

Commercial and PR Manager of the North Shore Sporting Car Club, Brett Middleton, said, “Having someone of Frank’s stature come all the way from Ireland to compete in Batemans Bay is a testament to the reputation our event and our championship now hold. It’s exciting not just for competitors, but for fans too. This is must-see rallying.”

The Lazer Rally of the Bay will again feature classic Eurobodalla stages and a vibrant event hub at Club Catalina, with the Batemans Bay Marina Resort serving as the official accommodation partner. The event is also Round 4 of the 2025 Shamrock Haulage NSW Rally Championship and is expected to draw a bumper field of entries across all categories.

Entries for the Lazer Rally of the Bay will open soon.

Mar 12

2025 Lazer Rally of the Bay Set to Thrill Motorsport Fans in Batemans Bay

By Events, News, Rally, Rally of the Bay 2022, Rally of the Bay 2023, Rally of the Bay 2024, Rally of the Bay 2025

Batemans Bay, NSW –  Motorsport fans are in for an exhilarating experience as the 2025 Lazer Rally of the Bay returns on 2nd August, promising high-speed action and an exciting competition organized by North Shore Sporting Car Club (NSSCC). The event will feature some of the best rally teams tackling the scenic yet challenging roads of the Eurobodalla region and Shoalhaven forests.

This year, the Rally of the Bay is elevating the competition by introducing a Regularity Trial, giving participants the opportunity to test their precision driving skills under rally conditions. This addition aims to bring together passionate motoring enthusiasts and expand the reach of the event, further solidifying Batemans Bay as a premier destination for motorsport.

Eurobodalla Council has also joined as a key supporting partner, reinforcing its commitment to boosting local tourism and community engagement through major events. Shoalhaven Council is not a direct supporter of the event. Their involvement ensures that the Rally of the Bay continues to provide an economic boost to local businesses while offering an unforgettable experience for competitors and spectators alike.

Clerk of the Course, Nigel Bland, expressed excitement about the upcoming event. “The Rally of the Bay has always been a highlight on the NSW rally calendar, and in 2025, we’re making it even bigger and better. With the support from Eurobodalla Council and local businesses we will create a unique motorsport festival atmosphere in Batemans Bay. We encourage competitors and fans to mark their calendars and be part of the action.”

The event will see a competitive mix of NSW State and club-level competitors tackling the fast, flowing, and technical roads that have made the Rally of the Bay a fan favourite. State-level competitors will take on 10 special stages, including the iconic River Road, ensuring an exciting and challenging rally experience. The event will feature two spectator points and over 170km of competition, providing fans with prime viewing opportunities to witness the action up close.

Rally HQ will once again be based at Batemans Bay Marina Resort, offering a central hub for competitors, officials, and spectators.

Spectator points and event details will be announced closer to the date, with a full schedule available on the Rally of the Bay website.

For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or competitor information, please contact Nigel Bland, Director, 2025 Lazer High Performance Lights Rally of the Bay – president@nsscc.com.au

-ENDS-

For more information, please contact:
John McCredie – Media and Public Relations Manager on 0413 042 763 or email media@nsscc.com.au
Nigel Bland – Club President on email president@nsscc.com.au

Photo: Roy Meuronen Photography

Jul 09

2024 Lazer Rally of the Bay Cancelled Due to Unforeseen Circumstances

By Events, News, Rally, Rally of the Bay 2024

Photo by Roy Meuronen Photography

It is with great disappointment that North Shore Sporting Car Club announce the cancellation of the 2024 Lazer Rally of the Bay. Unfortunately, recent landslides and severe weather events have rendered two of the major stages unavailable, making it impossible to proceed with the event as planned.

The organising committee have explored every possible avenue to keep the rally on track, including a significant re-route. However, given the current situation and the limited time frame available, the team have found no viable options to move forward. Postponing the rally until later in the year is also not feasible, as the committee must consider other scheduled events and the impact on all participants and stakeholders.

This news is devastating for everyone involved, from the dedicated and hardworking volunteers and sponsors, through to the competitors and fans who loyally support the event. Despite this setback, NSSCC are committed to regrouping and starting the planning process for the 2025 Lazer Rally of the Bay, and are determined to make it an even bigger and better event!

The Event Secretary will be in touch with all competitors to organise refunds.

The organising team and NSSCC committee deeply appreciate the understanding and support during this challenging time and look forward to seeing you in 2025 for an unforgettable rally experience.

The Lazer Rally of the Bay, organised by the North Shore Sporting Car Club, is one of the premier events on the NSW rally calendar, attracting competitors from all over the state and beyond. Known for its challenging stages and breathtaking coastal scenery, the rally has become a favourite for both drivers and spectators alike. This year’s event was set to include stages through the stunning forests and along the beautiful riverfront, promising an exhilarating experience for all.

For further competitor information, please contact:
Adriana Pallister on adriana.pallister@nsscc.com.au

See you in 2025!

Feb 21

NSSCC Bathurst Rally Announcement

By Bathurst Rally, News, Rally, Rally of the Bay 2023, Rally of the Bay 2024

Photo by Roy Meuronen

To the rally community of NSW

The committee of the North Shore Sporting Car Club (NSSCC) today confirms that it is pleased to offer its support to the running of the Bathurst Rally in 2025.

The announcement of the 2024 event in November last year did not allow sufficient time for NSSCC to establish an organising team with sufficient lead time to ensure the successful running of the event.

A proposed replacement date of November 9 was discussed at a committee level, which has determined that NSSCC’s own commitments at that time of year, along with the unavailability of key senior figures, precludes the club from guaranteeing that the quality of the rally can be run to its standards.

NSSCC stands ready to offer support and advice to rally organisers in 2024, though any financial support will be reserved for a 2025 event in April or May.

Nov 28

Excitement Builds for the 2024 Rally of the Bay

By Events, News, Rally

Photo by Roy Meuronen Photography

The North Shore Sporting Car Club is thrilled to announce the much-anticipated return of the 2024 Rally of the Bay, set to take place on the 27th of July. This exhilarating event will once again showcase the breathtaking landscapes of the Eurobodalla Shire, with its headquarters stationed in the picturesque town of Batemans Bay.

Rally enthusiasts and motorsport aficionados can expect an unforgettable experience as the event navigates through the traditional roads that have been an integral part of the rally’s history. The Rally of Bay has always been a thrilling spectacle, weaving over the scenic and challenging forest and shire roads that the Eurobodalla has to offer. The popular event providing both participants and spectators with a truly unique rally experience.

The organising team is hard at work, meticulously selecting the roads that will challenge the skills of the drivers and thrill spectators. The NSW South Coast has proven to be a perfect backdrop for this high-octane event, and the Rally of the Bay continues to be a highlight in the Australian motorsport calendar.

With Rally Headquarters based at the Batemans Bay Marina Resort in Batemans Bay, the event promises not only thrilling rallying action but also a celebration of the local community. The Rally of the Bay brings together competitors, officials, supporters, spectators and locals for a day filled with excitement and some of the best rally cars the country has to offer.

“We are excited to be organising the Rally of the Bay again this year” said Brett Middleton, President of the North Shore Sporting Car Club. “This year’s event promises to be another great event, with a stellar field of competitors expected to tackle the challenging roads that have become synonymous with this iconic rally.”

The North Shore Sporting Car Club welcomes back Ian Bigg as event Clerk of the Course and encourages all motorsport enthusiasts to mark their calendars for the 27th of July and join them for a day of thrilling action and unparalleled excitement. Anticipation is building for what is sure to be an amazing Rally of the Bay in 2024.

About the North Shore Sporting Car Club

The North Shore Sporting Car Club is a passionate community of motorsport enthusiasts dedicated to promoting and organising high-quality motorsport events. With a rich history and commitment to excellence, the club strives to provide memorable experiences for competitors and fans alike.

Sep 28

Quinn Dominates the 2023 Bathurst Rally

By Bathurst Rally, News, Rally, Rally of the Bay 2023

Photo: Roy Meuronen Photography

The 2023 Midstate Bathurst Rally was held on Saturday the 23rd of September and was the first time in many years that a rally has been based out of the heart of Bathurst. With 11 stages in the Blayney and Bathurst locality, the roads were a mixture of shire, country and forestry, providing a real mixture of surfaces and conditions.

The rally started in the main street of Bathurst and the main midday service was also held there, providing a great spectacle for locals in Russell Street, right outside the courthouse.

The event format was a little different too, with two remote services. The first in the historic town of Carcoar, south of Blayney allowed service crews the opportunity to get out and see the action with a spectator point located just 600m from the Service Park.

Nathan Quinn and Ray Winwood-Smith took the first stage win and went on to win every stage in the event, taking the overall win in the rally by just over 2 minutes and 40 seconds. They dominated all day and showed no signs of slowing down, despite the huge margin.

Josh Redhead and Holly Kilbride in an older Lancer GSR were the only challenger to Quinn, they finished second but couldn’t quite match the pace of Quinns Hyundai i20.
The fight for third place on the podium was a real battle between Richie Dalton/Dale Moscatt in the Toyota Yaris AP4 and current championship leader Timothy Wilkins/Katie Giddins in a Mitsubishi Lancer EVO. The margin between the two was just 11 seconds at the final time control with Dalton taking 3rd.

Unfortunately for Wilkins, a time penalty would drop him from 4th down the 5th and elevate Riley Walters/Andrew Crowley up into 4th. Wilkins bagged enough points to extend the championship lead, with Dalton now in 2nd, 39 points behind.

In the East Coast Classic Series, Tom Dermody and Eoin Moynihan would take out the 2WD section.

Alex Neill and Pete Helwig took out the Clubman series in their Subaru WRX. The 2wd open Hyundai Rally Series (HRS) was won by Luke Jamieson and Wil Jamieson and the Excel HRS was won by Lachlan Moore and Paul Bailey.

All results for the event can be found on Chrissport at https://www.chrissport.kiwi/events/

Jul 03

Official Accommodation for the 2023 Lazer Rally of the Bay at Batemans Bay Marina Resort

By News, Rally, Rally of the Bay 2022

The organisers of the highly anticipated 2023 Lazer Rally of the Bay are pleased to announce that the official accommodation for this year’s event will be at the Batemans Bay Marina Resort. This stunning waterfront resort has once again been selected to provide a convenient and comfortable stay for the rally participants and their teams.

The Batemans Bay Marina Resort, located in the picturesque town of Batemans Bay, New South Wales, offers a range of luxurious cabins that provide the perfect retreat for rally teams. With breathtaking views of the marina and easy access to the rally Service Park, this resort is the ideal choice for those participating in the Lazer Rally of the Bay.

Teams are advised to book their accommodations early to secure their cabins so that teams can ensure they have a comfortable and convenient base during the rally.

One of the significant advantages of the Batemans Bay Marina Resort is its ample parking space, which includes parking for trucks and car trailers. This ensures that participants have secure and convenient parking facilities for their vehicles and equipment throughout the duration of the rally. The resort’s commitment to providing a comprehensive experience for rally teams sets it apart as an ideal accommodation option for the 2023 Lazer Rally of the Bay.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Batemans Bay Marina Resort for the official accommodation of the 2023 Lazer Rally of the Bay,” said Event Director, Nigel Bland. “The resort’s stunning location, comfortable cabins, and excellent parking facilities make it an ideal choice for our rally participants. We encourage all teams to secure their cabins early to guarantee a fantastic stay during the event.”

The 2023 Lazer Rally of the Bay is expected to draw participants and spectators from across the country. The event promises exhilarating rally action, showcasing the skills and expertise of the best rally drivers in the region.

To make reservations or for more information about the Batemans Bay Marina Resort, please visit their website at www.batemansbaymarinaresort.com.au

About Lazer Rally of the Bay:

The Lazer Rally of the Bay is an annual rally event held in Batemans Bay, New South Wales, showcasing the skills and thrills of rally drivers from across the region. It is known for its challenging forest stages and exciting competition, attracting participants and spectators alike.

About Batemans Bay Marina Resort:

Batemans Bay Marina Resort is a premier waterfront resort located in Batemans Bay, New South Wales. Offering comfortable cabins, stunning views, and excellent amenities, the resort provides an exceptional accommodation experience for leisure and event guests alike. With its parking facilities for trucks and car trailers, the resort caters to the needs of motorsport enthusiasts and rally teams.

Jun 23

Bathurst to become new home for Oberon Stages

By Bathurst Rally, Events, News, Rally

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.

May 19

Lazer Rally of the Bay to Thrill in 2023

By Rally, Rally of the Bay 2022

The 2023 Lazer Rally of the Bay is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and competitive rally events of the year. With drivers from all over the country set to compete in this iconic Australian event, spectators are sure to be in for a treat.

Organised by the North Shore Sporting Car Club, the Lazer Rally of the Bay is a gravel rally event that takes place in the beautiful Eurobodalla township of Batemans Bay, New South Wales. The event attracts some of the best rally drivers in the state, all vying for the coveted top spot on the podium.

This year’s event promises to be even more exciting than previous years, with several new drivers and teams entering the competition. One driver to watch out for is Richie Dalton, who has won the Rally of the Bay in past. Dalton will be driving his Toyota Yaris, and he’ll be hoping to add another victory to his already impressive rally career.

In addition to the professional drivers, the Rally of the Bay also features a number of amateur and semi-professional drivers, all competing in a variety of classes. This allows drivers of all skill levels to participate in the event and adds an extra level of excitement to the competition.

One of the most unique aspects of the Rally of the Bay is the scenic location. The rally takes place on the gravel roads of the beautiful Eurobodalla Shire in South Coast region of New South Wales, providing a stunning backdrop for the high-speed action. Spectators are encouraged to come out and enjoy the scenery as well as the rally, with vantage points and viewing areas available on the course.

As with any rally event, safety is of the utmost importance. The organisers of the Lazer Rally of the Bay have implemented measures to ensure the safety of both drivers and spectators, including strict speed limits and safety barriers in certain areas.

Overall, the 2023 Rally of the Bay promises to be an exciting and thrilling event for all involved. With the State’s best drivers, a beautiful location, and a passionate community of rally enthusiasts, this event is not to be missed.

The Lazer Rally of the Bay takes place on the 29th of July and includes 10 special stages (5 stages repeated).

Sep 01

NSSCC e-Series – Results after Round 4

By Rally, Results, Wheelspin

The NSSCC Dirt Rally 2 e-Series is now up to Round 5.  The current Pointscore plus stage results for Rally Finland is below.

The leaderboard sees D_OPIE on top, Phil Morley in second and Oscar Middleton in third outright

Round 5 is Rally Australia – R5 Class Cars  from the 10th of September to 24th of September

To enter, purchase the leading rally game Dirt 2.0 on your PC, Mac, Xbox or PlayStation platform.  Once you have purchased and installed Dirt Rally 2.0 on your preferred platform, click here and create a Codemasters account. After you have logged in, you will be able to request access to the NSSCC e-Sports competitions.

Send your racenet username, real name, and NSSCC club ID number to eseries@nsscc.com.au

We will then grant you access to the Club page after which you will be able to join in the competition via the game portal. We will grant access every Monday

POINTSCORE
Close Menu