Over seven days and 3,000 kilometres, more than 100 competitors in AUTO, MOTO and QUAD categories will test their own and their machine’s endurance.
The route chosen by organisers will not only showcase the diverse beauty of the Western Australian landscape, but challenge competitors as they tackle sandy creeks, river crossings, vegetated sand hills, and beaches.
Tourism WA’s CEO, Stephanie Buckland said they are looking forward to the 2013 Australasian Safari and the exposure it provides Western Australia.
“The Australasian Safari has gained a strong reputation as being the toughest motorsport event in the Asia-Pacific region, and it is an exciting feature of the State’s diverse events calendar,” she said.
“The event provides valuable exposure of Western Australia and its extraordinary landscapes, as it is broadcast nationally and internationally in more than 130 countries.”
Tourism WA and their agency Eventscorp are principal sponsors of the Australasian Safari.
Event Director, Justin Hunt said that riders and drivers will need to be mindful of preserving their vehicles when tackling the complex course.
“Last year we had the soft dunes, hard dunes, treacherous creek beds, dust, rocky outcrops and the rough scrubby hills the area is known for. Competitors should expect the same this year and more,” said Mr. Hunt.
The Ceremonial Start will take place in Perth on Thursday night September 19, giving fans an opportunity to farewell competitors as they embark on seven days of adventure.
Competitors will spend the first night of competition in the Shire of Northampton. On the second day, they will travel to one of WA’s favourite family holiday destinations, Kalbarri. Kalbarri‘s dramatic landscape with limestone gorges and beautiful beaches will set the backdrop for Leg One and Leg Six
Competition is bound to get fierce when Safari travels the perimeter of Shark Bay, an area made up of national parks and reserves.
Safari then heads inland to the Shire of Upper Gascoyne for Leg Two and Three, with a double overnight stop in Gascoyne Junction. This region is synonymous with the challenges and romance of early station life. The area suffered devastating flooding in the summer of 2010/11. The small community is drawing deeply on its pioneer spirit, determined to rebuild the town bigger and better than it was before. By the time Safari arrives in September the town will boast a new fuel stop and tavern.
Travelling back to the coast, the Kennedy Ranges will be the backdrop for competitors as they tackle rocky outcrops, sand dunes, red dust, spinifex, wattle and mallee trees – it’s no wonder this is a favourite spot for 4WD enthusiasts.
Located at the mouth of the Gascoyne River, Carnarvon will host Safari for two nights at the end of Legs Four and Five.
Competitors can look forward to travelling north through stations Quobba, Gnaraloo and Waroorra, which border the Indian Ocean and Ningaloo Reef, providing truly spectacular vision.
The final leg will bring the competitors back to Geraldton and the Finish on Friday 27th September. Geraldton is one of Western Australia’s largest regional cities renowned for its rich farmland, fishing industry and busy port facilities. Geraldton is also part of the Coral Coast, one of Australia’s greatest natural playgrounds.
Bivouac locations for 2013:
Friday 20 September, Leg 0 - Northampton
Saturday 21 September, Leg 1 - Kalbarri
Sunday 22 September, Leg 2 – Gascoyne Junction
Monday 23 September, Leg 3 – Gascoyne Junction
Tuesday 24 September, Leg 4 - Carnarvon
Wednesday 25 September, Leg 5 – Carnarvon
Thursday 26 September, Leg 6 - Kalbarri
Friday 27 September, Leg 7 & Finish – Geraldton
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