For the very first time in its history, the Australian Tarmac Rally (ATR) will bring its high-octane action directly into the heart of Buchan for their annual Snowy River Sprint event this September.
ATR cars will officially kick off the rally on Buchan’s Main Street, feature midday lunch stops there and celebrate the thrilling grand finish at the iconic Buchan Caves Hotel.
Australian Tarmac Rally is thrilled to deepen its connection with the community by expanding its presence — its way of saying thank you to the locals for their generous support and for welcoming it onto their breathtaking surrounding roads.
“We’re committed to supporting the town that supports us. Bringing the rally right into Buchan’s heart is our way of giving back to the locals who open their roads and community to our event. It’s a celebration of partnership, passion, and the thrill of tarmac rallying,” event director Brittany Wilson said.
Bringing together rally crews from all corners of Australia, the event is a vibrant boost to the local economy as teams and fans spend within the region while tackling some of the nation’s most beautiful and challenging tarmac roads.
It’s also a rare chance for locals and visitors alike to get up close to world-class rally cars, meet the drivers, and soak up the infectious energy and camaraderie of this beloved motorsport, all set against the picturesque backdrop of East Gippsland’s warm and welcoming community.
“The Australian Tarmac Rally brings incredible energy and visitors to our town, which is fantastic for local businesses and the whole community,” Buchan local and Buchan Caves Hotel owner, Kirstie Pearce, said.
“ATR supports Buchan by highlighting what makes our region so special, along with supporting local events through sponsorship of the New Year’s Eve Fireworks and the Winter Festival event. It’s a partnership that helps keep our town vibrant and thriving.”
Set in and around the stunning towns of Lakes Entrance, Buchan and Orbost, the Snowy River Sprint delivers more than 240 competitive kilometres across 18 electrifying stages.
With short transport sections and a tightly packed field, both competitors and spectators are in for fast-paced, action-packed days that deliver incredible value and unforgettable memories.
The Australian Tarmac Rally caters to every motorsport enthusiast with categories designed to suit all levels. From the relaxed, non-competitive Tour category — perfect for road-registered vehicles and newcomers — to the high-speed Full Competition category for seasoned rally pros, ATR makes sure everyone gets to experience the thrill.
Additional classes like Rally Challenge and Rally Sport accommodate a wide range of vehicles and skill levels, ensuring there’s a place for every driver, whether it’s their first event or their hundredth.
SCHEDULE
– Friday, September 12: Documentation and Vehicle Safety Checks at Central Hotel, Lakes Entrance, from 12pm to 5pm
– Saturday and Sunday, September 13 and 14: Rally action kicks off each day at 8am on Buchan’s Main Street, with heart-pounding stages twisting through the scenic Buchan-Orbost Road. Enjoy lunch breaks from 12pm to 1pm, with the weekend concluding in a lively award ceremony at the Buchan Caves Hotel from 4pm.
Road closures will be in place from 7am to 5.30pm on on the Saturday and Sunday from Buchan Football Oval to Ostlers Gap Road.
Whether you’re a die-hard motorsport fan or just curious about the buzz, this historic rally moment in Buchan promises excitement, community spirit, and memories that will last long after the engines have cooled.
