V8s shift up a gear with Super Welcome for drivers

Date: Wednesday, 8th July 2009

Autograph hunters should make a bee line for Riverway tomorrow for the big Super Welcome to Townsville celebrations for the Dunlop Townsville 400 event.

Fans will be able to meet the stars of Australian super car racing during an autograph signing session on a big evening of events and activities which runs from 4pm to 9pm.

The age old Ford Vs Holden rivalry will also be a big highlight with the Bob Jane Ford versus Holden Muscle Car event.

More than 100 cars from all over Australia representing a history of V8 racing in Australia will be on show on the Tony Ireland Stadium oval from 4pm.

Other activities include markets, exhibitions, a multi cultural food court, dance expo, entertainment and rides and amusements.

The Super Welcome is one of a series of events the Townsville City Council is supporting as part of the Dunlop Townsville 400 Race Week calendar.

Dunlop Townsville 400 Festival Committee chairman Cr Tony Parsons said the welcome was a great opportunity for the community to meet the V8 Supercar drivers in person.

"The closest most of us ever come to the V8 drivers is when we see them in the media. This is a fantastic chance to meet them in person, get their autograph and give them a good old fashioned welcome to Townsville," Cr Parsons said.

"There’s plenty of activities for all of the family to make it a great night out and see the stars of the show."

Activities kick off at 4pm with the driver signings taking place at 5pm.

Entertainment will include Sian Evans, Formidable, Tess Latu Band and Abby Road, plus there`ll be roving entertainers, kids rides and amusements.

Australia`s biggest professional winter wakeboard and slider competition will also be putting on a display in the Riverway lagoons.

Other Council Race Week calendar events include:

• Little Red Concert on Strand Park Beach tonight from 6pm
• Strand Night Markets, Friday from 5pm to 9.30pm