- Coroner's inquiry finalised – the sport is moving forward with renewed focus on safety and growth.
- Calendar locked in – a packed schedule of iconic rallies across VIC, WA, NSW, TAS and SA.
- Economic and tourism boost – events like Targa Tasmania draw 80 per cent of entrants from interstate/overseas.
- Global ambitions – Australia positioned to influence international best practice in tarmac rallying.
- Optimism for the future – new entrants, sponsors and fans expected as the sport grows again.
With the findings of the Tasmanian Coroner's inquiry now finalised, Australia's tarmac rally community is looking firmly ahead — united in its commitment to safety, growth and the sheer thrill of competition.
From the Snowy Mountains to the streets of Adelaide, competitors, organisers and fans are gearing up for a packed calendar, determined to see the sport they love not just survive, but thrive.
TRCAA (Tarmac Rally Competitors Association of Australia) President Steve Brumby says the mood across the tarmac is one of optimism:
"It's been a challenging few years, but tarmac rallying in Australia has an extraordinary future. We've learned a lot, and we're committed to working hand-in-hand with event providers, governing bodies and regulators to make sure our sport is as safe, accessible and exciting as it can possibly be. The passion of our competitors is stronger than ever."
That passion will be on full display in the coming months, with events lined up across the country:
- 13-14 September – Australian Tarmac Rally's Snowy River Sprint, Lakes Entrance, VIC
- 18-21 September – Tarmac Events WA's Tarmac West 25, Perth, WA
- 9 October – North Shore Sporting Car Club (NSSCC) Tarmac Rallysprint Rd 1, Eastern Creek, NSW
- 25-26 October – Australian Tarmac Rally's Great Tarmac Rally, Marysville, VIC
- 6 November - North Shore Sporting Car Club (NSSCC) Tarmac Rallysprint Rd 2, Eastern Creek, NSW
- 8-9 November – Tarmac Events WA's Bunbury Rallysprint, Bunbury, WA
- 16-21 November – Targa Australia's Targa Tasmania, TAS
- 21-23 November – Adelaide Rally, Adelaide, SA
- 11 December - North Shore Sporting Car Club (NSSCC) Tarmac Rallysprint Rd 3, Eastern Creek, NSW
"These are some of the most spectacular tarmac rally events in the world," said TRCAA Vice President and long-time Tarmac Rally competitor Bernie Webb:
"They bring together everyday enthusiasts and seasoned professionals, from classic car lovers to first timers and they do it in a way that connects communities, supports regional economies and showcases our incredible roads.
"It's the mixture of the cars, the county, the speed and atmosphere that make tarmac rallying one of Australia's most thrilling motorsport disciplines".
The TRCAA is positioning itself as a constructive partner in the sport's next chapter — championing competitor voices, helping to develop safety standards, and promoting the unique culture of camaraderie that sets tarmac rallying apart from other forms of motorsport.
Steve Brumby said: "One of the things you hear from first-time entrants is how welcoming the rally community is," Steve said. "It's competitive, but it's also collaborative. People help each other out, swap tools, share advice — and then go hard against the clock. That's what makes it special."
Australia's tarmac rally scene, while smaller than Europe's, has historically punched above its weight. Events like Targa Tasmania have achieved international recognition, with around 80 per cent of competitors travelling from interstate or overseas — a tourism and economic boost that few sporting events can match.
Formed in 2022, just weeks after Motorsport Australia stopped issuing permits for Targa-style rallies following the deaths of four competitors at Targa Tasmania, the TRCAA has been at the forefront of the sport's renewal. Led initially by well-known motorsport identity Tony Quinn, the association represents drivers, co-drivers and navigators, and has worked relentlessly to secure the sport's future.
The current comeback effort, driven by TRCAA and its members, positions Australia to rejoin the global tarmac rally community with enhanced safety standards that could influence international best practice. It's not just a return — it's a chance for Australia to lead.
With renewed confidence, a strong national calendar and an engaged competitor base, TRCAA believes the sport is ready to grow again — attracting new entrants, fresh sponsors and a new wave of fans.
"We've got a clear path forward and we're ready to take it," Steve said. "If you've ever thought about competing, volunteering or just coming along to watch, now is the time. The sport is in good hands, and the best way to experience it is to get involved."
Please credit the photographers:
https://www.angrymanphotography.com.au/f287324222
