IT’S more than eight decades since Australia’s first “round the houses” car race was held in the streets of Albany.
The WA 50 Mile TT Car Race was staged on March 8, 1936 to help encourage business and tourism. It proved a hit, with a huge turn-out.
Three of the first cars to compete in that event have since been restored and continue to compete in a modern version of the event, which, like its predecessor, attracts crowds every year.
In a re-enactment of this 50-mile TT car race – part of the two-day Albany Classic weekend event – Albany’s CBD is converted overnight into a motorsport track by an army of volunteers, ready for the race on June 3.
This year about 150 cars will compete on the temporary circuit, from rear engine open-top race cars and vintage cars (such as those that competed in the original event) to touring cars.
One of the vehicles competing is the fastest E-type Jaguar with a record set on the salt lakes of SA. This year’s event also celebrates the 50th anniversary of the HK Monaro and Escort Mk1.
And, of course, there will be displays of vintage cars and street machines.
On June 2 you can watch the cars traverse the challenging Apex Drive Road leading to the Ataturk Anzac Memorial for the Mount Clarence Hill Climb.
Make your stay a longer one and check out the beaches – and look out for the first humpback whales of the season in King George Sound.
If you’re thinking of travelling further afield, head through the Great Southern Region and taste world-class wines and food in Albany, Denmark, Frankland River, the Porongurup Range and Mount Barker as well as distilleries and micro-breweries.
