The final round was back on the very popular property of Robert Parkinsons at Hirstglen, fifty kilometres south of Toowoomba. The stages are made up of hand crafted roads and tracks throughout the property and contains everything anyone could want from a rally. Fast straights, tight and twisty switch back roads through the trees and a sensational jump that would rival the famous Bunnings or the Mine Shaft. The complex is fast becoming one of Queensland’s favourite rally destinations.
Just behind the leading 4WD cars was an amazing battle that was fought to the bitter end. Craig Aggio in a potent Celica, Micheal Ranson driving a Nissan Skyline, and Jamie Lawson in his Classic Outback Trial-prepared Commodore Ute, battled over third place right up until the final night stage that eventually saw Aggio grab the last podium position on offer. Ranson suffered a broken front strut, limping the Skyline home and Lawson had a great drive but lost the upper hand by over shooting a sharp bend through a creek.
2010 was the first year of this newly developed series and it is fast becoming a must do on everyone’s calendar. The focus of the Northern Districts Sporting Car Club was to run competitive and affordable events, with the primary focus on harnessing new blood into the sport. With 11 drivers, 12 navigators and 8 female competitors having started up rallying this year as a result of these events, it has proven their formula is a great success.
Further through the field, but shining just as brightly as the leaders was young Kelly Fisher winning the ladies class in her first ever rally. Kelly also took the glory with outright honours in the Junior class as well.
As plans begin for the 2011 series, it is clear that these events are here to stay and are a fantastic foundation block for the overall health of Australian Rallying. Results from this event and further details regarding the series can be obtained via the NDSCC web site: www.ndscc.asn.au
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