The countdown is on for one of Australia's most iconic motorsport events, as competitors and fans prepare to descend on Alice Springs for the Tatts Finke Desert Race's landmark 50th year.
Held over two adrenaline-fuelled days, this legendary off-road race sees motorbikes, cars, buggies and quads take on rugged remote terrain, travelling from Alice Springs to the Aputula (Finke) community and back again across a 460km round trip.
What began in 1976 as a grassroots 'there and back' challenge for local motorbike riders has grown into a world-renowned event, widely regarded as one of the toughest desert races on the planet. Today, more than 600 competitors tackle the demanding course, which cuts through red dirt, sand, spinifex and desert oaks along sections of the historic Old Ghan Railway line.
Now celebrating its 50th year, the race continues to hold a special place in the Northern Territory calendar - not just as a premier sporting event, but as a powerful celebration of community, resilience and outback spirit.
For The Lott by Tatts NT, 2026 also marks a significant milestone - 27 years as proud naming rights partner of the Tatts Finke Desert Race.
Liz McPherson, Senior Community Partnerships Manager at The Lottery Corporation, said the partnership reflects a deep and enduring commitment to the region.
"We're incredibly proud to celebrate 50 years of this iconic race, and 27 years of standing alongside the Finke community," she said.
"Finke is more than a race - it brings together competitors, volunteers, families and local businesses in a way few events can. Year after year, we see firsthand the strength of the community behind it, and we're honoured to play a small part in helping it continue to thrive."
President of the Tatts Finke Desert Race, Antony Yoffa, said reaching the 50-year milestone highlights both the event's legacy and the importance of long-term partnerships.
"Finke has grown from a small local ride into one of the biggest off-road races in the world, and partnerships like the one with Tatts NT have been essential to that journey," he said.
"Their support over the past 27 years has helped ensure the race remains a world-class event while staying true to its roots here in Central Australia."
As engines rev and excitement builds, the 50th Tatts Finke Desert Race is set to deliver another unforgettable chapter in one of Australia's most unique sporting traditions and The Lott by Tatts NT is proud to be part of the journey.
