Thousands of rally fans have begun to descend on the Coffs Coast ahead of an exciting weekend of rally action.

Ticket sales are up on previous years, with significant interest in the event that will decide both the FIA World Rally Championship and the CAMS Australian Rally Championship.

There are numerous spectator points throughout the rally, including the popular Destination NSW Super Special Stage on the Coffs Harbour foreshore, where crews will be putting on an impressive show on both Friday and Saturday evenings.

Full spectator information, including maps and day-by-day guides and timings, can be found here. 

There are also plenty of free events for fans, including free access to the Pedders Rally Central – where the teams will base their service crews for the event.

The excitement will reach fever pitch on Thursday evening with the free Rally Show and Ceremonial Start on the Coffs Harbour Jetty from . Fans will be given a chance to see the cars up close and meet their drivers from both overseas and Australia.

Friday’s action begins at , with crews heading north of Coffs Harbour to tackle the morning stages as the fight for the various championships begins.

Tickets are available through the Rally Australia website or at the event.