2012 Australasian Safari route basics
While the course is shorter than last year's Safari (by almost 1,000 kms), competitors will be forced to race at a lower average competition speed due to the technically challenging and rough terrain. The course will be complex for riders and drivers alike. Over more than 3,000 kms, the terrain will comprise sandy creeks, river crossings and sand hills. Organisers have hinted that the recently-finalised course will feature "some impressive and extreme coastal stages."
AUSTRALIAN SAFARI 2012 - Itinerary Basics
The 2012 event will commence with the sunset Safari Show and Ceremonial Start at Hillary's Boat Harbour, on Perth's northern beaches, on Friday 21 September.
The competition stages will start and finish in Geraldton, one of WA's largest regional cities renowned for its rich farmland, fishing industry and expanded port facilities. Geraldton are also the gateway to the Coral Coast, one of Australia's greatest natural playgrounds.
Legs Two and Six will finish at one of WA's favourite family holiday destinations, Kalbarri, known for its almost year-round sunshine. The landscape around Kalbarri is dramatic with limestone gorges and beautiful beaches.
Competition is bound to get fierce when Safari then heads to Shark Bay. Much of the area is made up of national parks and reserves but the course avoids these areas. Nearby Monkey Mia is known for its dolphins, which come to the shore for feeding.
At the mouth of the Gascoyne River, Carnarvon will host Safari for two nights for Legs Three and Four. Leg Three is tipped as the most spectacular stage in the history of Safari. Competitors will travel north through stations that border the Indian Ocean and Ningaloo Reef, providing truly spectacular vision.
Travelling east, the Kennedy Ranges will be the backdrop for competitors as they tackle rocky outcrops, red sand dunes, spinifex, wattle and mallee trees - a favourite spot for 4WD enthusiasts.
Safari then heads inland to the Shire of Upper Gascoyne for Leg Five, and a double overnight stop in Gascoyne Junction. This is a region that is synonymous with the challenges and the romance of early station life. The area suffered devastating flooding in the summer of 2010/11, and the small community is drawing deeply on its pioneer spirit, determined to rebuild the town bigger and better than it was before. Townsfolk assure organisers they will be ready to welcome the 500-strong Safari entourage!
The final leg will bring the competitors back to Geraldton and the Finish on Saturday 29 September.
Event director Justin Hunt said community support was vital in ensuring Safari can travel offroad in WA.
"We've been overwhelmed by support, camaraderie and excitement as we've travelled to plan the course and meet with landowners over the last few months," he said.
For details on entry or to register interest, visit www.australasiansafari.com.au.
Moto entrants have the new opportunity of entering the Dakar Challenge, with the highest placed MOTO competitor who has registered for the Dakar Challenge receiving free entry into Dakar 2013. For full entry and eligibility regulations for the Dakar Challenge, visit the Safari website.
