The Historic Rally Association is looking for passionate motor sport fans to get involved with this year’s running of the popular Alpine Rally of East Gippsland.
One of the longest serving motor sport events in the world, the rally needs volunteer officials to help continue the run that has seen the event join the likes of the French Grand Prix, the Monte Carlo Rally, and the Indianapolis 500 in its historic value.
Taking place from Friday 29 November to Sunday 1 December, all roles are being accepted, including Control, Spectator Point, and Road Closure Officials to behind the scenes and at service areas.
Joining the ranks of one Australia’s longest serving national events is easy, with interested volunteers not needing to hold an officials licence or have any major experience - depending on the role.
Taking place as a gravel run event in the forests of East Gippsland, the special-stage rally will feature 100 two-wheel drive cars with crews from Ireland and New Zealand venturing down under to compete in the Lakes Entrance based event.
As a regular official at the Alpine Rally, David Sheridan believed the event is like no other and is something many people should do.
“There is nothing more glorious than hearing a Ford BDA Escort blasting through the forest towards you,” Sheridan said.
“We have a great setup with our chairs, and the intimate feel of our private spectator point. We get to see all the cars going flat out. It’s spine tingling.
“I have competed in many Alpines in the 80s, now it’s good to give something back to the sport. Wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
The event kicks off with an impressive night special stage on Friday night at the Bairnsdale speedway before competitors battle it out across gruelling stages around the picturesque locations. The event will then close with an official dinner celebrating and thanking the officials.
With the event taking place every two years, the last Alpine Rally of East Gippsland saw Ben Barker and Damien Long beat four-time CAMS Australian Champion Simon Evans alongside Ben Searcy and Hino Geelong CAMS Victorian Rally Championship regulars Luke Sytema and Adam Wright in an epic showdown.
More than 120 crews took on the 2017 Alpine Rally of East Gippsland with 73 managing to complete the full event.
The 2019 Alpine Rally of East Gippsland takes place around Lakes Entrance on 29 November to 1 December.