Alice Springs is gearing up for the Red CentreNATS, which kicks off today with the action-packed Burnout Competition and Burnout Masters Qualifying at Alice Springs Inland Dragway.

More than 700 entrants are preparing for Australia’s ultimate festival of wheels, which will roll on through to Father’s Day with a program jammed with drag racing (including the Heavy Hitters, Street and Pro), grass driving, show ‘n’ shine, 4WD-ing, show cars, motorkhana and more.

Top of the list for many fans and entrants is the street cruising and street parade, which sees some incredible rigs driving around the CBD. This includes modified rides that receive a special permit to take part. Get your camera ready, as you don’t see this every day.

The weekend wraps up on Sunday with more motorsports action, plus the official after party at the Juicy Rump in Lasseters Hotel Casino instead of the traditional podium party.

This year there will also be two 40sq m super screens in a dedicated Fan Zone at ASID, in lieu of open public access to The Hill. To follow physical distancing guidelines, access to The Hill will be reserved for existing Chrome Pass holders, and competition entrants and crews, with a capacity of 500 people at any one time. 

A Red CentreNATS three-day ticket (4-6 September) costs just $30. Children aged 13 and under are free. Buy on the door (eftpos only) or in advance at www.redcentrenats.com.au

Quotes from NT Major Events Company CEO, Tim Watsford:

“Alice Springs is the events capital of Australia right now, with the AFL game last weekend, Red CentreNATS this weekend, Parrtjima from 11-20 September and Desert Festival from 24 September to 4 October. This is an incredible result for such an unusual year.

“The Red CentreNATS pumps money into the local economy while providing Territorians with the chance to see an impressive range of motorsport events right here in their own backyard, and we’ve seen terrific support from local entrants, as well as across the Territory and interstate.

“Hundreds of entrants will be bringing a buddy or support crew with them, and some are here with family and friends. That means more people out and about in Alice, booking hotel rooms, eating in restaurants and spending in shops.”

Quotes from Summernats co-owner Andy Lopez:

“It’s always exciting to be doing the Red CentreNATS, and never more so than this year. More than 700 entrants will be taking part, and the town’s really coming alive with the rumble of street machines and a good contingent of bikes.

“This year’s festival is going to be fantastic for the automotive community and Alice Springs. It’s going to be epic.”

Media Contact: NT Major Events Company Media Manager: 0406 621026