Mount Panorama Circuit

The circuit is a public road that is closed for racing events, with a length of 6.213 kilometres and a maximum elevation change of 174 metres, making it one of the most demanding circuits in the world.¹ The track features a steep climb from the start line up to the summit at Skyline, followed by a fast, sweeping descent through the Esses and into the famous Conrod Straight. The combination of high-speed sections and tight corners, such as the Dipper and Forrest's Elbow, requires precise car setup and driver skill. The circuit's unique topography creates significant aerodynamic and mechanical challenges, with cars often bottoming out over crests and under heavy braking.

Mount Panorama has been the venue for the Bathurst 1000 since 1963, originally for production cars and later for touring cars, and it is considered the pinnacle of Australian motorsport.² The circuit also hosted the Australian Grand Prix in 1938 and from 1958 to 1961, and it has been a regular round of the Supercars Championship. In 1987, it held the World Touring Car Championship round, which saw intense competition between European and Australian teams. The circuit has also hosted motorcycle racing, including the Bathurst 12 Hour endurance race for GT cars, which has grown in international stature since the 2000s.

Beyond the headline races, Mount Panorama has a rich history of lesser-known events and uses. In the 1930s, the circuit was used for hillclimbs and motorcycle races, and the original road was built as a scenic tourist drive in 1938.³ The circuit has also been used for cycling events, including the annual Bathurst Cycling Classic, and for charity walks. A notable edge case is the 1977 Bathurst 1000, which was run in heavy rain and fog, leading to multiple crashes and a shortened race distance. The circuit's public road status means that speed limits apply on non-race days, and it is a popular tourist attraction for driving enthusiasts.

Safety upgrades have been implemented over the years to meet modern standards, including the addition of gravel traps, barriers, and improved runoff areas at critical corners.⁴ The most significant change came in 1987 with the construction of the Chase, a chicane on Conrod Straight, to slow cars before the final corner. Further modifications in the 2000s and 2010s included resurfacing and widening of certain sections, as well as the installation of a medical centre and helicopter pad. Despite these changes, the circuit retains its original character and remains a challenging and dangerous venue, with a reputation for high-speed accidents.

Bathurst 1000

An annual endurance race for touring cars held at Mount Panorama, considered the most prestigious race in Australian motorsport.

Conrod Straight

The longest straight on the circuit, approximately 1.1 km, known for high speeds and the Chase chicane.

The Chase

A chicane added in 1987 to reduce speeds on Conrod Straight, improving safety.