Australian Tarmac Rally field ready for Great Alpine Rally
Engines are primed for this weekend’s Great Alpine Rally 2026, showcasing an exciting and diverse field of competitors from across Australia.
The event also marks a significant milestone for Australian tarmac rallying, standing as the first brand-new tarmac rally event introduced in more than a decade.
Set against the spectacular backdrop of Victoria’s alpine region of Falls Creek, the rally promises a thrilling mix of modern performance machinery and iconic classics battling across demanding mountain roads.
A defining feature of the event is the use of the spectacular Bogong High Plains Road, one of Victoria’s most iconic alpine drives, which has never been closed for motorsport competition.
For the first time, this challenging high-altitude route will be transformed into a closed rally stage, offering competitors a rare opportunity to witness competitive rally action on a road previously accessible only to the public.
The Great Alpine Rally also acts as Round 2 of the Australian Tarmac Rally Championship, attracting competitors from across the country as they continue their campaign for national honours.
Leading the field in the Modern Super Rally category is Jason and Fiona Wright (NSW) in their formidable 2011 Nissan R35, alongside strong contenders including Nathan Reeves and Bec Sheldrick in a Subaru WRX STi, Sandra Branum and David Rowe in a Group N-spec Subaru WRC STI, and Dean Lillie with Samantha Stevens piloting a Mitsubishi Lancer EVO VI. Jeremy Dennison and Casey Rumble round out the expected front-runners in a rapid BMW M140i.
The Modern AWD class is equally competitive, featuring multiple Toyota GR Yaris entries, Audi TTRS and RS3 models, Subaru WRXs, and a Volkswagen Golf R. Notable crews include Damian O’Halloran and Brian Foster (ACT), Barrie and Jan Smith (NSW/QLD), and Carrie and Sean Priestly (VIC), all poised to challenge for class honours.
In Modern 2WD, a trio of high-performance machines will entertain fans, including two Porsche Cayman variants driven by Xavier Franklin and Laura Rogers, alongside Mark Griffith’s striking Mercedes AMG GTR.
The Early Modern AWD category delivers one of the largest and most competitive fields, dominated by Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution and Subaru WRX STi models spanning multiple generations. Crews from Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, and Western Australia highlight the event’s strong national appeal.
Meanwhile, the Early Modern 2WD class features an eclectic mix of performance coupes and grand tourers, from a Renault Megane R26 and Nissan 350Z to a Maserati Gransport — ensuring plenty of variety and spectacle.
Classic rally enthusiasts will be treated to a nostalgic showcase in the Classic Super Rally and Classic categories. Legendary machinery such as the BMW E30 M3, Holden Group C Commodore, Ford Escort Mk2, Porsche 911, Datsun 240Z, and Mazda RX-7 will return to the stages, evoking the golden era of rallying while still delivering serious pace.
Spectators are advised that there are no designated viewing points along the rally course itself. However, safe viewing will be available from either end of the stage, including the Falls Creek Summit, Mount Beauty township, and the intersection with the Omeo Highway.
Event organisers emphasise that safety remains the highest priority and urge spectators to watch from approved areas only, follow all signage, and comply with directions from officials and event staff.
For further information regarding the event schedule or road access arrangements, please refer to the official event link or contact organisers directly.