Campsite Bookings Extended to Tuesday Following Repco Bathurst 1000
Published on 31 August 2026
Bathurst 1000 Campers at Mount Panorama and Council-run campsites have today been provided the option to remain onsite until 10am Tuesday morning, extending the regular campground departure time of 12:00pm Monday.
This initiative follows Council's approval for $185,000 in NSW Government grant funding to hold a CBD event on Monday afternoon, 12 October, to delay the departure of some race fans and reduce traffic impacts on the Great Western Highway.
Deputy Mayor Cr Ben Fry thanked Supercars for coming onboard, noting the importance of reducing traffic congestion as race fans travel home from the Great Race.
"The Monday after the Bathurst 1000 is always a busy day on the roads, but this year there is cause for increased concern as race patrons drive east via the detour at Victoria Pass. I’d like to thank Minister Jenny Aitchison for recognising the need to stagger the huge flow of people leaving Bathurst once the race is over by granting Council $185,000 to hold an event the Monday after the 1000, giving some race fans a genuine reason to stay another night and travel home Tuesday instead.
"It is fantastic to hear today that Supercars has jumped onboard as well, granting campers relief by extending the traditional campground departure time from 12pm Monday, to 10am Tuesday morning. These shared efforts will spread departures across a few days, alleviating traffic congestion on key transport routes out of Bathurst.
"We can also confirm that Council has made arrangements to extend stays at our Council-managed CBD camping sites for those wanting to remain in Bathurst for the Monday activation. Information about this will be provided directly to affected campers in the coming days," said Cr Fry.
Supercars Chairman, Barclay Nettlefold, said the initiative was designed to enhance the fan experience while supporting broader efforts to improve traffic outcomes for the region.
"The Repco Bathurst 1000 attracts one of the largest camping audiences in Australian sport and we know that traditionally many fans have packed up and commenced their journey home on Monday morning," Nettlefold said.
"With Bathurst Regional Council delivering an exciting Monday entertainment program in town, this initiative provides fans with the flexibility to stay on at Mount Panorama, enjoy the activations and entertainment on offer throughout the city, and then depart on Tuesday morning if they choose."
Deputy Mayor Cr Ben Fry additionally provided an update on the Monday concert program, noting Council is working around the clock to organise a compelling event schedule, made possible by NSW Government funding.
"Council is working hard to put together a captivating Monday afternoon event that gives visitors a genuine reason to stay in Bathurst a little longer but is also something our local community can come out and enjoy.
"The entertainment schedule and event details are still being finalised, and we’ll have much more to say shortly, but the intent is simple, create a strong post-race experience that helps spread the departure peak, supports local businesses and adds another dimension to the Bathurst 1000 weekend. There’s more to come, and we’re excited about what is taking shape,” remarked Cr Fry.
Media contact: Genevieve Green Media and Communications Officer