Targa and Tasmania’s peak tourism body have confirmed dates for the next five Targa Tasmania events. The date claimers arrive in the face of a tarmac rally permit ban from Motorsport Australia.
Events Tasmania and the Targa Tasmania organiser confirmed the dates last week. The date claimer schedules the event through to its 35th anniversary in 2027.
This year’s 30th anniversary Targa Tasmania was downgraded to a non-competitive touring event after the death of a competitor on day two of its running.
The fatality followed three deaths in the 2021 event and prompted Motorsport Australia to place a moratorium on permitting Targa-style tarmac rally events. Permits are required from MA (or an alternative sanctioning body) before promoters can run competitive events.
The date announcement is indicative of at least tacit support for the event from Tasmanian government circles. Events Tasmania is part of the Cultural and Tourism Development division of the Tasmania Department of State Growth. It is partnered with Screen Tasmania, Arts Tasmania and the Tourism and Hospitality Support Unit (THSU).
Said Targa Tasmania organisers: “In recent months, we have been talking more about our previously planned move to a March date.
“...We have decided, in agreement with Events Tasmania and the various regional tourism bodies around the state, the actual best place for TARGA Tasmania to stay for the next five years, is exactly where it has historically been held; the week after the Easter long weekend.
“So, we are excited to announce the dates today for the next five running’s of TARGA Tasmania.”
Image credit: Other Side Productions