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Rally of the Bay 2025

Experience the Thrill of Rallying with the RD-Cup Regularity Rally

By Events, News, Rally of the Bay 2025, Tarmac Rallysprint

The North Shore Sporting Car Club (NSSCC) is excited to announce an easy and affordable entry into the exhilarating world of rallying with the RD-Cup Regularity Rally, a key sub-event of the upcoming Lazer Rally of the Bay. Scheduled for Saturday, August 2nd, 2025, in Batemans Bay, this event is designed specifically for enthusiasts eager to experience the sport without the need for a highly modified vehicle, offering a unique opportunity to test your skills on some of the East Coast’s most renowned rally roads.

“We’re committed to supporting and growing the sport of rallying, and the RD-Cup Regularity Rally is a testament to that commitment,” says Nigel Bland, NSSCC Club President. “With this pathway, we’ve made it possible for newcomers to try rallying in a safe, controlled, and incredibly fun environment.”

An Accessible Entry into Rallying

Forget the misconception that rallying requires a dedicated, high-performance machine. The RD-Cup Regularity Rally is suitable for any normal road car with a solid roof and good ground clearance that’s in good condition. This means you can use your daily driver to experience the thrill of a rally event. 

Safety First, Always

The NSSCC places paramount importance on the safety of all participants. Before you even set off, the experienced organising team will conduct a comprehensive safety check of your vehicle and apparel. This rigorous inspection ensures your car meets the necessary safety standards and that you’re properly equipped. 

Furthermore, in conjunction with RallySafe, your progress will be meticulously monitored throughout the event. This advanced system allows the organising team to track your performance and, crucially, to ensure you’re always playing within the rules designed to keep you safe. Should any rule breaches occur, you’ll be notified ASAP, allowing for immediate rectification and maintaining a secure event for everyone. 

“The last thing we want is an unsafe event,” Bland emphasises. “We ask all participants to do their best to comply with the associated rules, as they are there to protect you and ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone.” 

Drive the Roads of Legends

One of the most exciting aspects of the RD-Cup Regularity Rally is the opportunity to drive the very same roads as legendary rally drivers, including the iconic Frank Kelly! This unique experience offers a taste of the challenging and rewarding terrain that makes rallying so captivating, all while providing a cheap and accessible entry point. 

If you’ve ever dreamt of trying rallying, the RD-Cup Regularity Rally offers the perfect starting line. NSSCC Members also receive an extra $50.00 discount! Why wait? Enter today! Get ready to experience the excitement, camaraderie, and skill required for this incredible motorsport. 

Enter Online

Entries are managed through the WOLF online system – it’s quick, easy, and rally-ready.
Spots are limited. Don’t miss out.

Enter now via WOLF: http://app.wolfacility.com/event/RallyoftheBay2025

Got Questions?

Contact:  Nigel Bland, Club President
Email: nigel.bland@nsscc.com.au 

What You Need

The CAR must have the following:

  • Registered for road use

  • Covered by 3rd party insurance

  • A solid, permanent roof

  • Working headlights and taillights (you’ll finish in the dark)

  • Decent ground clearance (you’ll be on gravel roads, and yes – there’s a creek crossing!)

  • A basic first aid kit (click here for what it should include)

  • 2 seatbelt cutter/window break tools (click here for an example)

  • A securely mounted 2kg fire extinguisher

The CREW must have the following:

  • Both driver and co-driver need a Motorsport Australia Speed Licence (as a minimum)
  • The driver must have a valid licence to drive on public roads
  • A safety helmet that meets Motorsport Australia standards (AS/NZS 1698 or better)
  • Full-length clothing (from ankles to neck to wrists) – no flammable synthetic fabrics like nylon
  • Enclosed shoes with leather uppers – elastic-sided work boots are okay

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.

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