Kennards Hire Rally Australia and the final round of the 2019 FIA World Rally Championship will be cancelled due to serious bushfires that continue to affect much of the northern part of the state of New South Wales (NSW).
The cancellation comes after extensive consultation with the NSW Government, the international motor sports governing body FIA, emergency services and the local community.
NSW is experiencing its worst ever bushfire conditions, which have resulted in the declaration of a State of Emergency, a state-wide total fire ban and conditions in some regions being described as “catastrophic”.
“Considering the best interests and safety of everyone involved in the rally, and of course the wider community, it is not appropriate to conduct the rally,” said Andrew Papadopoulos, Event Chairman.
Papadopoulos said the cancellation was the only course available, considering the safety of the more than 1000 people involved as officials, competitors and in support roles.
“Our thoughts are with the NSW community, especially the people who have lost loved ones, livelihoods and homes as a result of the fires in northern NSW, and we thank the Rally community for your support and understanding.”
Ticketholders, officials, volunteers and the community can contact Rally Australia for more information at 02 6648 4972 or [email protected].