TARGA: Return to Burnie for Silver Anniversary

The northern Tasmanian town of Burnie will return to the list of stops for Targa Tasmania in 2016.

It’s a return to tradition for the 25th anniversary edition of the legendary tarmac rally, Burnie having been an ‘overnighter’ for the first 16 events on the calendar before a course change in 2008 diverted crews to Strahan on the west coast for two nights.

During that time the Targa Expo was held in Burnie, drawing up to 10,000 spectators from the surrounding areas. As well as spectator interest, Targa expects that the overnight stop will bring more than $2 million in direct tourism spend to the north-west coast as that area attempts to transform into a Tasmanian tourism hub.

Launceston will continue its role as initial Targa city, hosting the pre-event and opening Targa days before the 350-strong field heads for Burnie.
Event Director Mark Perry was excited about the move “We are the only true state-wide annual event, and to be able to share the millions of dollars spent before and during the event to more regions is fantastic news for everyone,” Perry said of the new route.

“Burnie City Council has been incredibly supportive of Targa in recent times with their backing of Targa Hellyer Gorge, and they deserve to have an overnight stop again. To be able to do this while still retaining our vital contribution to the West Coast is the perfect outcome.  

“One day we hope there will be enough accommodation on the East Coast to stay there too, but we will again visit St. Helens for lunch next year to ensure vital funds are put into this community as well,” Perry concluded.

Burnie Mayor Anita Dow added: “We are thrilled with the news that Targa Tasmania is returning to Burnie for an overnight stop. Previous overnight stops in Burnie have always been fantastic events, not just for the city, but for the region. There has always been strong community support for bringing back the overnight stay and Council is very excited that Targa Tasmania has chosen the 25th anniversary to return to Burnie.”

The 25th running of Targa Tasmania will commence with pre-event formalities on Saturday, April 9, 2016. Crews will be Launceston-based until Wednesday, April 13, when they head to the Burnie overnight.

From there, Strahan hosts overnight on the Thursday before crews head to the state’s capital, Hobart, for the final two days of competition, finishing on Saturday, April 16.