School children are the big losers when it comes to Bathurst 1000, with the scheduling of this year’s race outside of school holidays robbing them of the best opportunities to get autographs from the V8 Supercars drivers.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The popular transporter parade and autograph sessions on Wednesday afternoon will take place during school hours, preventing many children from having the chance to meet their heroes.
A spokesperson said Bathurst Regional Council had done everything it could to cater for children, but could not move the transporter parade and autograph sessions.
“It’s unfortunate that the race has fallen outside of school holidays this year, but council has tried to beef up their off-track events on Friday and Saturday to try and make up for that,” she said.
“We’ve got the Street Fair which has rides and storefronts and also the drive-in cinema, which is great fun and great value for the family.
“We also have a colouring competition for children and the first prize is the opportunity to ride in a transporter.
“The other thing is the drive-in cinema on Friday and Saturday. That’s a great family event and caters for 500 cars.”
The first of two movies at the drive-in cinema is The Fast and the Furious 6 on Friday night, while Despicable Me 2 on Saturday night will entertain the family.
Schools can organise for their students to attend the parade, while individual teams offer autograph opportunities on-track and at stores around Bathurst during Race Week.
Most major events in race week cater for older race fans. The Legendary Moments dinner at Rydges Mount Panorama on Thursday night features ex-racers Tony Longhurst and John Bowe, while the V8 Race Ball on Friday is a glamorous event at Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre.
The Kings Parade street fair is a major drawcard for families, with rides, face painting, live on-stage entertainment, games and great food stalls.
