It’s the final countdown: 4 days to go until Rockynats 03
Published on 03 April 2023
Rockynats 03 revs into action on Friday 7 April, and Central Queensland is already filling with the sounds of classic cars, burly bikes and fierce 4x4s making their way to Queensland’s biggest car festival.
As the first non-Covid affected event, anticipation is palpable around the Rockhampton region. With a packed program for car enthusiasts and more off-track entertainment than ever, the 2023 event has an attraction for everyone.
For anyone still sitting in neutral about whether to attend, this week is the last chance to get discounted tickets before the price goes up on the first day of Rockynats, Easter Friday.
The much-loved street drags, burnouts, and exclusive drifting competition promise high-octane action and high-profile drivers from around Australia. Attendees can ‘fill their tank’ of engine appreciation with Australia’s largest street parade of 1500 cars, impressive displays at the Show ‘n’ Shine and Elite Section, plus a bigger-than-ever 4x4 Zone with 60 vehicles on display.
As the event build progressed today, Mayor Tony Williams visited the Northside Boat Ramp, home of the Buddy’s Fire Burnout Precinct. Mayor Williams says there is evidence all over Rockhampton of businesses and car enthusiasts alike gearing up for Rockynats.
“I am excited to see how well-attended the 2023 Rockynats will be. Businesses are preparing, hotel ‘no-vacancy’ signs are going up all over the city, and there is a growing excitement throughout the region,” says Mayor Williams.
Also at the burnout precinct, Advance Rockhampton Executive Manager Greg Bowden says that Rockynats is a massive investment into the region both economically and socially.
“Rockhampton is quickly becoming a hub for high-quality events in central Queensland. Rockynats alone attracts 15,000 visitors and injects over $5 million into the region’s economy.”
“Rockynats is for much more than just car lovers. Even if you can’t change a tire or tell the difference between a Mustang or a Mazda, you’ll love the Rockynats off-track entertainment,” said Mr Bowden.
Across the Easter weekend, attendees will be spoiled for choice in entertainment, from relaxing by the riverside with food and live music to sky-high views with Helifish’s Joy Flights. During the day, attendees can appreciate the glamour and fashion of the RockabillyNats competition or take part in the antics of crowd-favourite Mulletfest. Even those who don’t love cars will be impressed by the adrenaline-pumping FMX Kaos and Hot Wheels stunt shows at the Showgrounds, alongside pro-wrestling, a tattoo competition and live music throughout the weekend.
Rockynats doesn’t finish with the sunset. In the evening attendees can enjoy continued food and entertainment such as Easter Friday’s drive-in or sit-in outdoor movie. Legendary rock band Dragon will be gracing the stage at the Saturday night concert, followed by show-stopping fireworks displays on Saturday and Sunday nights.
As the whole city centre transforms for Rockynats, there will be a number of road closures and changes to traffic throughout the CBD, Southside and near the burnout precinct. The street parade route will see road closures on Good Friday, while other areas may have rolling closures all weekend. Check the road closure information on the website at www.rockynats.com.au/roadclosures.
Ticket prices increase as soon as Rockynats kicks off on Easter Friday. Platinum tickets are already sold out, but Gold tickets, which give access to the exclusive Rockynats water taxis, are still available. To make sure you secure your spot at a great price, head to www.rockynats.com.au/GetTickets. Tickets start at $35 with an option for one, two or three-day passes. Family, concession, and youth tickets are also on offer.
For live updates and the Rockynats program, download the Rockynats app. Search for ‘Rockhampton Events’ in your app store or download for Android or IOS at: http://www.rockhampton.eventapp.com.au/.