Three kilometres, 26 challenging corners, 118 entrants, two days of action for one title, the CQ Crane Hire Gold Rush Hill Sprint 2024 this weekend is shaping up to be another thrilling event.
This year the event received an added boost of support from Rockhampton Regional Council's Community Assistance Program which contributed $10,000 towards the sprint.
Mayor Tony Williams said Council is proud to throw its support behind the iconic event, highly regarded around Australia as the longest hill sprint in motorsport.
"The course is one of a kind in Australia with its long stretch up the Mount Morgan Range, taking in numerous tricky corners and 160 metres change in elevation," Mayor Williams said.
"With its popularity amongst drivers, there will be plenty of skills on display, making it a gripping couple of days of driving.
"We expect it to bring an influx of visitors to the region, including the numerous competitors, pit crew and spectators from right around the country."
Divisional Councillor Cherie Rutherford said it was encouraging to see the event return to the renowned winding roadway.
"A wonderful part of this event is that car enthusiasts can enjoy some exciting action right in our own backyard," Cr Rutherford said.
"It's not every day you get the chance to watch this kind of event so close to home, and the picturesque backdrop of the Mount Morgan Range is an added bonus."
Central Queensland Motor Sporting Club President Aaron Black said the event revs up on Saturday from 7am and concludes on Sunday afternoon with presentations.
"We've got a really good number of competitors this year," Mr Black said.
"We have a lot of competitors who travel from all over Australia and praise the quality of the road.
"It's got the reputation for being a fun track to drive and as well as the longest hill sprint which also adds to its popularity."
Mr Black said the funding received through Council's Community Assistance Program had been a big help, allowing the club to purchase its own timing system instead of having to pay someone to do that task.
"It also allows us to feed all our volunteers throughout the weekend as this event wouldn't run without their help," he said.
"We have just shy of 40 volunteers and feeding them over the weekend is our way of saying thanks for their time."
Spectators can enjoy being close to the action with entry just a gold coin donation providing access to the pit area.
"We see a wide range of race cars entered, anything from rally cars to track circuit and even street cars," Mr Black said.
"If you are interested in cars, this is a great event as it really is a car lover's dream."
The CQ Crane Hire Gold Rush Hill Sprint 2024 was one of 30 community events and programs to receive funding in Round 2 of the 2023/2024 Community Assistance Program.
In its most recent 2024/25 budget, Council invested $425,000 across the Community Assistance Program which supports year-round community development grants, regional and local events, and five major multiyear events held throughout the year.
