The stunning Red Centre hosted a busy weekend of automotive action and colour with the return of Red CentreNATS (RCN) from 1 to 3 September 2023 in Alice Springs.
This unique event is the only place in Australia where car fans can legally drive their highly modified vehicles on certain routes during the event, thanks to a special permit system. Motor enthusiasts, who travel from around the country to take part, enjoy a packed program featuring burnouts, drag racing, Shannons Show ‘n’ Shine, Great Northern 4WD Course, grass driving, Lasseters Motorkhana and the famous Yeperenye Street Parade.
The parade is the largest of its kind in the country and sees hot rods, burnout cars, vintage and elite vehicles cruise through town as people line the streets.
New this year and kicking off the action on Thursday, 31 August 2023, is the Fringe Festival. Permitted vehicles can cruise into town and park up around the Alice Springs Town Council Lawns for an informal show ‘n’ shine. Also new is the Motorvation Supercruise, which allows entrants of any level to send it down the dragstrip and try their skills on the burnout pad in front of a packed crowd.
RCN is delivered by the Northern Territory Government through the Northern Territory Major Events Company (NTMEC) in association with Summernats.
NTMEC chief executive Suzana Bishop says the event delivers in several ways for the Red Centre region: “This is a truly unique event in an absolutely iconic location. As well as providing a long weekend of entertainment around Father’s Day, and the perfect excuse for an Aussie road trip, Red CentreNATS provides a massive economic boost for local businesses.
“Last year’s event generated a total expenditure stimulus of $6.9 million, of which an incredible 90% was new money, largely thanks to the huge number of people who travel from interstate to attend. Many of them return year after year.”
Summernats director Andy Lopez says the event continues to evolve. “There are some great additions to the program that we know entrants and spectators will get a huge kick out of as we build towards the next huge milestone for the event next year when Red CentreNATS turns ten.
“And this event remains the only place where modified car enthusiasts can use their cars the way they’ve always wanted to.”
