5 - 9 October 2011

Every October fans flock to the Mount to be part of history. The monumental race has been held at Bathurst for what seems like an eternity, but for the drivers time stands still in the lead up to that green light. The tradition began in 1963 in the form of the Armstrong 500. Nearly half a century later the Great Race and its following are stronger than ever, seeing nearly 200,000 visitors journey to the Mount over race week. The traditional rivarly between Holden and Ford keeps fans and drivers alike at each others throats for the 161 laps in Australia's most popular endurance race. Victory in the Bathurst 1000 is achieved only by the most extraordinary drivers, and it is these legends who cement their names in the pavement of history.

With the new rules restricting full time drivers from pairing together for the enduro events, 2010 saw Team Vodafone recruit Bathurst and V8 Supercar legend Mark Skaife to pair with Craig Lowndes. After winning at Phillip Island, The Lowndes/Skaife combination took the position of favourites for Bathurst. Living up to that title, the pair went on to win the fabled race, with teammates Whincup/Owen completing the form finish just 0.173 seconds later.

Great Race Festival - Off Track Events

5 October - BRock Super Wednesday

Where: Kings Parade (Russell Street) Bathurst

Time: 11am V8Supercar Transporter Parade

           12.00pm Official Driver Autograph Session

Cheer on the V8 Supercan Transporters as they make their way along William Street to Mount Panorama. After the Parade, the only Official Off-Track Autograph session will be held in King's Parade in front of the Bathurst courhouse.  Bring along your favourite racing memorabilia or grab a poster and meet with all the V8Supercar Drivers.  There will be two autograph sessions taking place on the day, so there is plenty of opportunity to get an autograph (Session 1 - 12pm and Session 2 is at 1.45pm).

What to see: Unveling of the 2010 winners plaque with Craig Lowndes and Mark Skaife. There will also be Jumping Castles, Face Painting, the B-Rock BBQ, PCYC Van, TAFE Motorsport and the V8 Utes and their drivers.

If your a primary school student and would like to win a ride in a Transporter, as part of the Parade click here  to enter in the Colouring In Competition 

6 October - National Motor Racing Museum Legends Dinner

Where: Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre

Time: Doors open from 6.00pm - 10pm

Cost: $60

Experience a once in a lifetime opportunity to listen to Legends Allan Grice, Colin Bond and Tomas Mezera as they relive the historical and memorable moments of Mount Panorama. With a combined racing career stretching over 30 years, this years honorary guests have covered both the highs and lows of motor racing in Australia.

The evening will also include a full buffet dinner, along with raffles and a special Q & A session for fans to ask drivers key questions about their careers and moments at the Mount.

Contact the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre Box Office on (02) 6333 6161 to book your ticket today.

7 October - Audi Centre V8 Ball

Where: Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre

Time: 6.30pm

Cost: $80 p/person

Enjoy a 3 course meal and music by 'Nuthin' 2 Serious' and a special performance by Cirus Surreal.

For ticket enquiries please contact 0407 489 634.

Proceeds of the night will be going towards Careen School Bathurst and Cirkus Surreal.

8 October - Saturday Street Fair

Where: Kings Parade (Russell Street) Bathurst

Time: 1.00pm - 8.00pm

Cost: Free Entry

Catch all the excitment at the Saturday Street Fair, with rides ($1 p/ride), activities, market and food stalls and plenty of entertainment on the Essential Energy Stage.

This year's line up of entertainment will also include a special performance and autograph session from 2010 Winners of Australia's Got Talent 'JUSTICE CERW', along with The Mickey Pye Band, the Fabulous Fat Brothers and so much more.

So if your looking for a great afternoon of fun and action the Saturday Street Fair is the only place to be!

9 October - Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000

For information about all the action taking place on the Mountain, visit the official Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 website here.