Rolex Australian Grand Prix

The Rolex Australian Grand Prix is on in Melbourne on the 14, 15, 16 and 17th of March 2013. The Australian Grand Prix is a motor race that uses everyday sections of road that circle Albert Park Lake, a small man-made lake just south of Melbourne’s CBD.

The Grand Prix is the oldest surviving motor race held in Australia having been held 77 times since it was first run at Phillip Island in 1928. Since 1985 the race has been a round of the FIA Formula One World Championship.  As the final round of the season, the Grand Prix hosted a handful of memorable races, most notably the 1986 and 1994 events which saw those respective titles decided.

Compared to other circuits that are held on public roads, the Albert Park track has quite a smooth surface. The course is considered to be quite fast and relatively easy to drive, drivers having commented that the consistent placement of corners allows them to easily learn the circuit and achieve competitive times. However, the flat terrain around the lake, coupled with a track design that features few true straights, means that the track is not conducive to overtaking or easy spectating unless in possession of a grandstand seat.

Guests seeking accommodation for the Australian Grand Prix are invited to contact Lamplighter Motel, but this is always a big event for Melbourne and accommodation is quickly sold out.