Canberra's Festival of Speed Set to Thrill Despite Extreme Heat Conditions
With scorching temperatures forecast to hit 39 degrees Celsius on Saturday, revheads and automobile aficionados are preparing to brave the heat for Canberra's highly anticipated Festival of Speed. The event, held at Thoroughbred Park in Lyneham, promises an exhilarating showcase of more than 250 vehicles, drawing an expected crowd of close to 20,000 enthusiasts from across Australia and beyond.
Special Arrangements to Combat Sweltering Weather
Organisers have implemented comprehensive measures to ensure the safety and comfort of attendees, particularly children, during the extreme weather. Most indoor areas will be fully air-conditioned, while many of the prized cars will be displayed in garden settings under natural tree shade or purpose-built coverings. Additional provisions include free water stations, towels, and a misting station to help visitors stay cool throughout the two-day event.
Darren Pearce, Chief Executive Officer of the Canberra Racing Club, emphasised the importance of these preparations. "We have made special arrangements to keep everyone safe in the hotter conditions," Mr Pearce stated. "It's crucial that families and fans can enjoy the festival without discomfort."
Spectacular Line-Up of Rare and Exotic Vehicles
The third edition of the Festival of Speed will feature an impressive array of automobiles, headlined by the newly released $800,000 Lamborghini Temerario. This year also marks the debut of motorcycles at the event, with classic bikes, speedway bikes, and racing bikes adding to the excitement.
Local car enthusiast Ian Julien will make his first appearance at the festival, showcasing his stunning 2018 McLaren 570, a British racing machine valued at $400,000. "I'm excited about the thrill of driving my McLaren on the Thoroughbred tracks," Mr Julien expressed enthusiastically.
Veteran Canberra car collector Ian Oliver, known for his impressive display of twin Bentleys at last year's event, returns with a pair of 1971 Ford Falcons featuring the iconic red and black badges of Australian muscle cars. Mr Oliver, who owns Ollies' Garage with over 40 vintage and classic vehicles, highlighted the educational aspect of the festival. "It's more than just a show; it's a venue for young Canberrans to really 'know the car'," he remarked.
Significant Tourism Boost for the Capital
The Festival of Speed is proving to be a major tourism drawcard for Canberra, with nearly half of the tickets purchased by visitors from outside the Australian Capital Territory. Mr Pearce noted that this influx of interstate and international attendees represents a significant win for the local economy. "It's a win for us and a win for Canberra. The ticket numbers are a big tourism winner," he affirmed.
In addition to the ground displays, organisers have confirmed that paid helicopter rides will be available, offering attendees a unique aerial perspective of the event. A preview held at the British High Commissioner's residence in Canberra on Friday morning showcased some of the weekend's highlights, including Mr Oliver's silver 1951 Rolls-Royce.
The Festival of Speed will run at Thoroughbred Park, Lyneham, on Saturday, January 31 and Sunday, February 1, with tickets available through the event's official website.
