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From 1985 to ’99 the Australian Grand Prix was hosted by Adelaide. But thanks to ex-racer-turned-entrepreneur Bob Jane, the action soon shifted to sports-crazy Melbourne. He created a huge ‘thunderdome’ and invented the AUSCAR series. Between 1956 and ’58, Albert Park in Melbourne hosted a non-championship Grand Prix. But it was only in 1996 that Melbourne revved its way into the world championship of Formula 1 races. Timings: March is F1 season in Melbourne. The Australian Grand Prix has been the traditional season-opener except in 2006, when the timing of the race clashed with the Commonwealth Games being held in Melbourne that year. The event is held from 15th to 18th March. The Opening hours are: Thursday and Friday - 8:00am 7:00pm
Saturday and Sunday - 7:30am 7:00pm The Circuit: The 5.3 km Melbourne Grand Prix circuit around Victoria’s scenic Albert Park Lake is custom-built every year. How To Get There: Fly into Melbourne at the Tullamarine Airport, 21 kilometers north west of the city. From here you can: - Taxi to the City Center. From there to the circuit, it is only 2 km.
- Or, you can also take a regular shuttle bus-service into the city.
- One can opt for train or tram. Travel within the city using the free tram services and get off at one of the many stops near the circuit.
- You must buy the tram, bus or train tickets into Melbourne in advance.
- When hiring a car, make sure to pay the automatic motorway toll and keep enough coins handy. There is no parking available near the circuit. So the organizers advise visitors to Melbourne to park-and-ride.
Tickets: You can choose general admission on race day and take a delightful walk around the parkland surrounding Albert Lake. Or you may opt for these grandstands, available particularly at the beginning and end of the lap: - Fangio Grandstand £190
- Brabham Grandstand £265
- Jones Grandstand £265 Accommodation: Stay at one of the many hotels right near the race circuit! Some hotels you may look up are: - Albert Park Manor Boutique Hotel
- Bayview On The Park
- Carlton Crest Hotel The Climate: Late summer in Melbourne is perfect, with long, leisurely days just perfect for a holiday. With additional benefits like friendly people and a party ambience, Melbourne sure does live up to its tag, ‘a great place for the race’. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your sunscreen and shades, and catch the action right when the season opens in Melbourne this March!
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