Taking the first step into organised competitive motorsport events can feel overwhelming with questions about licencing, vehicle requirements and safety standards top of mind.
This uncertainty creates barriers for people who are curious about getting involved in motorsport, but are unsure where to begin.
A Come and Try Day is designed to remove that uncertainty and provide an introduction to the sport within a controlled and welcoming environment.
Come and Try events are non-competitive and untimed, meaning there is no pressure to perform and no timing sheets at the end of the day.
The focus is on participation, enjoyment and learning.
In most cases, participants can use their own standard road car, provided it meets basic safety requirements which the event organiser can assist you with. This removes the need for excess car preparation and allows people to experience motorsport in a familiar vehicle. Some Come and Try Days, however, have loan cars provided to participants by event organisers.
Safety is central to every Come and Try Day with experienced officials and volunteers overseeing every aspect of the day.
To ensure expectations are clear and understood, drivers receive briefings on track procedures, flag signals and safe driving conduct before getting behind the wheel.
Many events also provide instructors or experienced club members who can offer guidance in areas such as braking technique, cornering lines and vehicle control.
Motorsport Australia General Manager, Members, Clubs and Growth Michael Melilli says the structured approach of a Come and Try Day ensures participants build skills progressively, while understanding the responsibilities that come with driving in a motorsport setting.
“Skill development is another key advantage when participating in a Come and Try event environment,” Melilli said.
“Experiencing a controlled motorsport environment helps drivers better understand their vehicle’s capabilities and limitations.
“Participants often leave with improved car control, spatial awareness and confidence behind the wheel.
“These benefits can extend beyond the track, contributing to more informed and capable everyday driving.”
Come and Try Days also play an important role in building community. They introduce newcomers to local car clubs and the broader motorsport network.
Meeting like-minded people, speaking with officials and learning about different event formats can open the door to further involvement, whether that be regular club days, officiating roles or competitive racing.
Importantly, Come and Try Days also offer a low-cost entry point.
Introductory licences are often available for single-day participation, keeping expenses manageable while still operating under nationally recognised regulations and world-class safety frameworks.
Come & Try Days use a $40 Introductory licence, with the necessary forms provided on the day by the event organiser.
If a participant is keen to do more, they can use that $40 as credit towards an annual licence.
By lowering financial and administrative barriers, these events create a clear and supportive pathway into Australian motorsport for drivers of all ages and experience levels.
Motorsport Australia also lists all Come & Try events each Wednesday on our social media channels (Facebook and Instagram) as part of the Weekend Warm-Up, our weekly list of all permitted events for the upcoming weekend.
