Need for Speed

Do you feel the need, the need for speed? Darwin is about to get fast and loud, as the betr Darwin Triple Crown Supercars Indigenous Round hits the track at Hidden Valley for three action-packed days of burning rubber.

^{By Tierney White}

SUPERCARS CHAMPIONSHIP ROUNDS are held right across the country, but Darwin is the proud home to the Indigenous Round, and 2024 marks 26 years of Supercars in Darwin.

22-year-old Rossi Johnson is one of a handful of local drivers hitting the track in the V8 SuperUtes comp. After competing around the country, he looks forward to hitting the track on his home turf for the first time.

“It’s really exciting actually. There’s been so many Territory businesses and individuals here that have helped me, and without them I wouldn’t be where I am today. To be representing the Territory and being one of the few Territory drivers out there, it’s gonna be a pretty cool feeling, in front of my home crowd,” he says.

The proud Territorian and motorsport nut says it’s always been his dream to race.

“As long as I can remember, it’s been my passion pretty much since I was born. Both of my parents were into motorsport, so I guess I was brainwashed. I’m pretty fortunate to have such supportive parents.”

This year sees the return of a crowd favourite to please the rev heads among us, as Nitro Up North brings more than 90 cars to the track to battle it out down the drag strip. New to Supercars this year is The Valley Rodeo, a rodeo-themed space that provides the ultimate pit stop for those seeking a fun and affordable hospitality experience.

However you see your 2024 Supercars experience unfolding, Minister for Major Events Brent Potter says you’re in for a good time.

“The betr Darwin Triple Crown Supercars Indigenous Round is a huge event, and the Nitro Up North program will keep the entertainment going well into the evening including a brand-new Valley Rodeo,” he says.

“The Top Fuel showdown will provide a great opportunity for drags fans to see the fastest cars in the world right here in Darwin. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for local dragsters to race in front of a packed crowd, including friends and family.”

Last year saw more than 42,000 fans flock to the track, so if you want to smell that burning rubber, book your tickets and get set for some super speedy Supercars action.

betr Darwin Triple Crown Supercars Indigenous Round
WHEN FRI 14 – SUN 16 JUN
AT HIDDEN VALLEY MOTOR SPORTS COMPLEX
COST $47-$99 SINGLE DAY | $125 3-DAY PASS
INFO darwinsupercars.com.au

_{Inset: Rossi Johnson}