Considered the world's leading tarmac rally, Targa Tasmania has attracted a massive entry list that is expected to top 500 cars across 10 different categories.
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A key event in boosting Tasmania's annual economy and tourism, the six-day rally starts on April 26 from Launceston and finishes at Princes Wharf 1 in Hobart for the traditional ceremonial finish on May 1.
The event will see competitors tackle 34 timed stages across the length and breadth of Tasmania, returning with the traditional George Town stage on the opening day and concluding with the run from Strahan to Hobart of the final day.
The field will be based in Launceston until Thursday morning and racers will spend Friday and Saturday nights in Strahan before finishing in the state's capital on Sunday afternoon for the special post-event 30th Anniversary celebrations.
"There is a lot of excitement building for our big 30th anniversary event which has drawn a huge field of cars," Targa Australia chief executive Mark Perry said.
"We, as with all of Australia, have been faced with some difficult challenges over the last two years with COVID-19 but we are now looking forward to putting on the biggest and best Targa Tasmania event that there has ever been.
"If you look at the entry list there has been a big spike in the number of entries in response the landmark anniversary and it augurs well for a hugely successful week."
This year's race comes after three people died during Targa Tasmania in 2021 and an investigation resulted in 23 recommendations, including driver abilities not matching the high-power potential of their car and organisers of the race being unable to identify and respond to a 'missing' car.
Three riders tragically died within the space of two days in two separate crashes during the April 2021 event.
The investigation and 61-page report was released by Motorsport Australia in September 2021 and advised the recommendations needed to be implemented in full effect from March 2022.
The investigation heard from race competitors, some who were witness to the aftermath of one of the crashes.
Targa Tasmania responded to the report at the time, saying it would implement all 23 recommendations.
"We know that competitor safety, while understanding the inherent risks of motorsport, must be a priority for all of involved in our sport," he said.
"All parties understand that we have much to do in the coming months, but we embrace the challenge that will see safety at our events continue to evolve and improve."
The competition cars will be waved off from the Launceston Grand Chancellor from midday on April 26. There will also be a Targa Expo held at the Silverdome on April 26.
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Nikita McGuire
Born and raised in Launceston, Nikita is passionate about the stories that matter to locals. When she is not at work you can find Nikita adventuring around Tasmania or spending time with family and friends. If you have story tips or events in the Arts and Events sector, please contact Nikita at nikita.mcguire@austcommunitymedia.com.au or on 0437 031 581
Born and raised in Launceston, Nikita is passionate about the stories that matter to locals. When she is not at work you can find Nikita adventuring around Tasmania or spending time with family and friends. If you have story tips or events in the Arts and Events sector, please contact Nikita at nikita.mcguire@austcommunitymedia.com.au or on 0437 031 581
