Targa rally to hit Southern Forests this weekend

The Southern Forests region is gearing up for a huge day of racing to hit its streets this weekend. The 2021 Make Smoking History Targa South West rally will see 38 cars and their drivers from across the State descend upon Pemberton and Northcliffe to race on Saturday. Event co-ordinator Ross Tapper said although the rally was remaining a one-day event after COVID-19 restrictions last year forced it down from two, it was still going to be a great experience. “It was very popular last time,” he said. “People were thinking they weren’t getting their money’s worth but at the end of the event they realised they’d done a full day’s competition. “It also allows us to do the presentation of the trophies on Saturday night and people can sit back and enjoy themselves a bit rather than having to worry about competing on Sunday morning. “Then hopefully they’ll hang around in Pemberton early on Sunday, have a breakfast in one of the cafes before heading back home.” Drivers will put their limits to the test on roads in and around the towns with spectators able to get up close to the action. Cars will be grouped into classes with categories including outright Competition, Targa 165, Targa 130 and the non-timed Targa Tour. All cars take off in 30-second intervals with the winner being the fastest car over all stages. Mr Tapper said the event would also raise money for charity by allowing drivers to pay for practice runs. “We’re back running a shake-down on the Friday afternoon for the competitors who can pay a small additional fee if they wish to which will go to a local charity,” he said.