RC Racing to take Off-Track Entertainment to the Next Gear at Rockynat
Published on 18 March 2025
This year’s Rare Spares Rockynats is set to rev up excitement both on and off-the-track with thrilling new program additions including an Asian street food-inspired Little Tokyo Drift Precinct and Off-Road Remote Control (RC) Car Racing that promise to bring even greater variety and entertainment for attendees of all ages to Queensland’s largest car and bike festival on April 4-6 in Rockhampton.
High-octane drift car action will meet the vibrant flavours of Asia at the brand-new Little Tokyo Drift Precinct where eventgoers will be able to watch some of Australia’s highest profile drift drivers in action while indulging in a culinary journey through Asia, with a range of pop-up food offerings. The precinct will also offer a chance for automotive enthusiasts to get closer to the action at the Hardtuned JDM Showcase, where they can snap a photo with show-stopping cars, witness cars battle it out on the limiter for the title of ‘loudest car’, meet the drivers and chat to local drift clubs about how to get involved in the sport.
Off-Road Remote Control Car Racing will also be making its debut at Rockynats 05 when skilled RC competitors from across Australia will take centre stage at the FMX Kaos Showgrounds Precinct on a dedicated track built specifically for the occasion.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said these new additions will add variety for Rockynats patrons while also giving local clubs and businesses a platform for community engagement and promotion.
“This year’s off-the-track additions will not only offer even more unique attractions that add value to the Rockynats experience, but also give local clubs like the RRCCC and the drift clubs a vital platform to showcase what they offer to members of the community,” Mayor Williams said. “The same goes for the many local businesses and eateries that’ll be showcased as part of Little Tokyo and the event’s other dining precincts. It’s great to see so many local clubs and businesses getting behind the event.”
Rockhampton local and proud Rockhampton Remote Control Car Club (RRCCC) member, Luke Smith, is thrilled to bring the exciting sport of Off-Road RC Racing to Rockynats with the dedicated track being a major personal milestone and a first in Australia for RC racing.
“It’s an incredible opportunity to showcase the passion and skill behind RC racing and promote our local club while also introducing something truly unique to the Rockynats program,” said Mr Smith.
As the club’s Track and Development Manager, Mr Smith is currently overseeing the build of the new full-size track, which involves over 150 tonnes of clay, earth working machinery, scaffolding and more to create a world class track and grandstands specifically for the three-day competition.
“I’ve wanted to see an RC track be built at the Showgrounds for years now, so to have that dream come to fruition is very rewarding and it’ll make for an incredible viewing experience for spectators across the weekend.”
Competitors will compete in one of four categories: Nitro Buggy, Nitro Truck, Electric Buggy, and Electric Truck, with practice on Friday, qualifying on Saturday and finals on Sunday. Mr Smith, who has been racing competitively at the RRCCC for three years now, adds that audiences will be surprised with just how fast the cars can go and how addictive the racing is to watch.
“People don’t realise that these cars can reach speeds of over 100km/h and jump as high as a house,” he explains. “The nitro cars are also really loud, which makes it a fast-paced sport with plenty of action that’ll have people hooked.”
Nominations for the competition are still open with those keen to take to the track and showcase their RC racing skills at the event able to nominate online at:https://www.rockynats.com.au/Get-Involved/Off-Road-RC-Racing
The club will also be offering spectators the chance to try RC racing for themselves, with demo cars on hand throughout the weekend and club members available to answer questions about the sport.
FMX Kaos will also be bringing adrenaline-pumping Freestyle Motorcross and BMX shows to the Showgrounds each day that’ll be guaranteed to leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
All off-track entertainment is included with Rockynats tickets, with General Admission Adult one-day passes available for just $39 if purchased before the event weekend. Tickets can be purchased online athttps://www.rockynats.com.au/Tickets
To explore the full off-track entertainment program, download the official Rockynats app or visit the website. Search for ‘Rockhampton Events’ in your app store.
ENDS
About Rockynats
4-6 April 2025
Set along the iconic Quay, East and Bolsover Streets in the CBD, combined with our Northside Burnouts and Showgrounds Precincts, the city of Rockhampton will take centre stage for a revving-good time at Rare Spares Rockynats!
Rare Spares Rockynats 05 is proudly brought to you by Rockhampton Regional Council and presented by Autoglym in association with Summernats. The event wouldn’t be possible without our event partners Aeroflow, Bill Blokker Spraypainting, Buddy's Fire Sales & Services, CQ Drivelines & Balancing, Dobinsons Springs & Suspension, Finch's Mitre 10, Flexihire, FMX Kaos, Frenchville Sports Club, Garrett Advancing Motion, Haltech, HardTuned, Insane Performance, Johnsons 4WD, Laceys TJM Mega Store, Lawrences, Oz Wheels, Pedders, SWL Racing, Tuned by Chop.
Rockynats is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.
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