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05-09-2011 at 08:00: Highway to the Thunderdome

Melbourne’s Calder Park Thunderdome will erupt back into life on Sunday the 27th of November 2011, to the sounds of NASCAR, AUSCAR, Sportsman and HQ’s.

It has been 10 years since the iconic ‘super speedway’ was last used in anger, but interest has been reignited in the Bob Jane built facility thanks in part to the emergence of former V8 Supercar champion and NASCAR Sprint Cup winner Marcos Ambrose.

The event though has been the result of the ongoing passion of so many of the former competitors and officials who do not go a day without remembering what a fantastic facility the Thunderdome was in its prime, but whilst so many of us rely on memories, a passionate Bendigo-based group of enthusiasts have made the dream a reality!

“It will start with a ‘Fun Day’ to gather all those people back together socially so that we can start a discussion about developing a series around these incredible cars,” organiser Daryl Martin confirmed.

Together with Grant Phillips and John Burley, the trio are working on developing a series of events at venues such as the Thunderdome, Winton Motor Raceway, Eastern Creek and Adelaide International Raceway with plans to debut in 2012.

“We want these cars out of the garage where for the most part they’re just collecting dust, and back onto the circuits they were designed for,” Martin admitted.

“Already we’ve had contact with people from Queensland, Tasmania, Canberra and Adelaide as well as right across Victoria, all interested in coming out on November 27, all motivated by just a seed of an idea.

“It will be a great opportunity to not only bring the cars back out, but to share in some of the history with a small display of private memorabilia, and I’m sure the old stories will quickly start to roll.. the day will be enjoyable for all.”

In just three short weeks since the idea was hatched on Facebook and by word of mouth, there are already in excess of 20 vehicles and owners that have expressed interest in attending the ‘Fun Day’ with more enquiries being fielded every day.

“I think the key is having the opportunity to get the cars circulating on the Thunderdome once again,” Martin admitted.

“That has been a real drawcard for all involved.”

Daryl, Grant and John are keen to hear from anyone with cars that once raced on the mighty Thunderdome, former crew members and officials.

To make this day a success and turn it into a regular event, “we need to hear from people that were involved in these events and also fans who have collected memorabilia and photos too,” Martin admitted.

Gates will be open to a limited number of public for a gold coin donation where they will be able to watch the event from the infield of the Thunderdome. In the mean time interested people are invited to join the AUSCAR Racing group on Facebook (facebook.com/#!/groups/168073596545585/)

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