Dates are now confirmed for the 2026 First Gear calendar, with the program returning for another year.
The first First Gear event will take place in Victoria, at Sandown International Raceway on Saturday 2 May.
The program then goes to Western Australia for the second First Gear event on Sunday, 24 May at Perth’s MotorMall Wanneroo Raceway.
For those aged 12-17, this program is a direct pathway to motorsport, giving participants hands-on experience in provided cars and support to begin competing regularly in motorsport.
The full breakdown of First gear events in 2026 are as follows:
First Gear is the cheapest and most accessible way to get started, with suitable road vehicles and driver coaching provided by Norwell Racing School across the country, led by 2014 Bathurst 1000 winner Paul Morris.
Morris outlined he is eager to give back to the sport through the new partnership involving Motorsport Australia and Norwell Racing School.
“Motorsport has been such a big part of my life, and it has given me so much. Now it’s time for me to give back to the sport through Motorsport Australia’s First Gear and Girls on Track programs, helping others begin the exciting journeys that motorsport can take them on,” Morris said.
“Ensuring these foundation events are delivered nationally to the highest standard, truly representing what’s on offer, is incredibly important to me.
“There are so many different pathways the next generation can take, and this is the best possible way to learn how to get started.
“Our team at Norwell is built on giving people a go and supporting them through their motorsport journeys.
“Much like Motorsport Australia’s First Gear program, which we at Norwell Motorplex are incredibly proud to help deliver nationally in partnership with Motorsport Australia.”
Each event runs for four hours, split between an AM and PM session.
The program’s effectiveness comes as a result of its balanced instructor to participant ratio, giving each participant the opportunity to learn car control, braking, road and motorsport safety, steering and vehicle dynamics and physics.
Once they have mastered the basics of racing, participants will be equipped with everything they need to know to progress to club level events.
It is recommended that participants have very basic vehicle operation skills to maximise their learning on the day.
This is an incredible opportunity for young and aspiring drivers, giving them access to industry experts in a friendly, encouraging and safe environment.
