Five reasons to attend the 2017 Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix

Around 140km south of Melbourne, Victoria you’ll find the raw coastline and idyllic white beaches of Philip Island. But it’s one hi-octane, adrenalin-fuelled weekend in October that puts this popular tourist town into overdrive.

Perched on the edge of Bass Strait, the Philip Island Grand Prix Circuit is famous for its world-class bends and variable weather, among other things.

Truth is, the Michelin Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix is a fun-filled weekend fit for the while family – rain, hail or shine.

Something for everyone – from camping and kebabs to white-linen dining – the Australian MotoGP is where fans of all types can immerse themselves in two-wheel nirvana.

Here are five reasons why the 2017 Michelin Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix is the place to be from October 20-22.

1. Back to basics
Tuck-up by the tarmac at the Trackside and Highside campsites situated by Southern Loop. It’s as close as you’ll get to sleeping on track. Campers will enjoy free entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights with acoustic sets from local talents, a BMX stunt show by FreestyleNow followed by a rock band on centre stage! Why not kill two birds with one stone, combine the annual family camping trip with a GP experience in Highside’s family-friendly zone. Bike-keen kids will love it!

2. Fan time
Up close encounters and autograph sessions will be held at the Spokes Entertainment Stage with appearances from MotoGP, Moto2 and Moto3 riders, as well as VIPs and motorsport legends. Get your kids an autograph book and create some fans from a young age! Or, indulge in your young-at-heart enthusiasm yourself. Check the MotoGP website for daily schedules. Don’t forget that kids under 14 get free entry with any adult general admission ticket.

3. Calorific feast
Catering to Melbourne’s love with food truck grub, the MotoGP has some of the best, trackside, in Gardner Village. Indulge in Shane Delia’s middle eastern marvels at the Biggie Smalls Kbab truck, get Prahran’s iconic Indian from Shiva Indian, be tempted with Polish street food from Bites on Wheels or go old school with the aptly named Sliders on Tyres. Grab the paper towels and dig in.

DISCOUNTED 2017 MICHELIN AUSTRALIAN MOTORCYCLE GRAND PRIX

4. Island pomp
If you’re chasing white linen and non-bend cutlery, check out the many hospitality packages available at the Island. Enthusiasts can indulge centre stage at the Champions Club at Stoner Corner (turn three), see the best action from the High Octane Club at Lukey Heights or choose from one of several Pit Roof premium offerings with the bonus of pit and grid views. Enjoy reserved seating, hot food, cold beverages, a superscreen for uninterrupted viewing and peace of mind with protection from the Island’s often-inclement weather.

5. Trackside fun
The new Urban Alley off-track entertainment zone located at Gardner Village features a custom bike display, urban street artists creating moto-inspired artwork, and a ‘chop shop’ where the skilled barbers from Rockit Barbershop are equipped to tame even the wildest hair. The GP Expo space features over 30 exhibitors of bikes and accessories, while kids can try their luck at the Junior GP Challenge on a Honda CRF50F! Test your skills in DeWalt’s daily challenge or watch BMX stunts from the FreestyleNow crew at Lukey Heights. Get involved!

There’s just something about the Island. Whether it’s the journey getting there, the wild back drop of Bass Strait or the several-thousand race-goers that flock year on year. Or maybe it’s the 4.445km of world-class tarmac that boasts tight corners, long sweepers and much opportunity for fast overtaking that has thrilled generations of motorsport fans for decades. You know what they say, location, location, location – it has never been more true.

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