There’s no denying Tasmanians have a need for speed.
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The North is still coming down from the adrenalin of last weekend’s three day Supercars event, but the tracks at Symmons Plains hosted yet another racing event on Sunday.
Targa Tasmania competitors treated racing fans to a morning of hot laps ahead of this week’s 27th event.
Later in the day, about $25 million worth of cars were on display at the Silverdome as part of Targa Fest, which will run again on Wednesday.
It was all part of the anticipation that Targa Tasmania brings to the state.
Every year, hundreds of drivers hit the road and thousands of spectators eagerly await their arrival at each stage of the event and 2018 will be no different.
About 285 cars will travel more than 2000 kilometres throughout the six days and go head-to-head across close to 40 competitive stages.
A major tourism event, Targa Tasmania injects millions into the state each year with both competitors and spectators travelling from interstate to participate in and enjoy the annual rally race.
Targa Australia says the event is “deliberately designed to benefit small towns and regional areas, with planned rest stops where crews spend on accommodation, fuel and food. Interstate and capital city spectators are also drawn into these regions, providing a boost to local tourism”.
Behind the event there is also about 800 volunteers who help make it happen every year. It is another example of Tasmania’s ability to host major events and be a destination state, and at the same time, it showcases the spirit of our local communities.
While the event is an exciting time for everyone involved and all those who sit back and enjoy it from afar, it also comes with a serious safety message.
Yes Tasmanians love their racing, but racing should be left to the professionals and confined to the event.
The saying “don’t try this at home” comes to mind.
Targa Tasmania will run from Monday until Saturday with road closures and delays expected throughout the week.
This means both drivers and spectators need to plan ahead and be patient.
Not only do the racers want to get home safely, but general road users and pedestrians should also be able to arrive home alive.