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Every year, the Shire of Northam and the Vintage Sports Car Club of Western Australia join forces to celebrate a golden era of racing. As one of the only remaining "around-the-town" style events in Australia, the Northam Motorsport Festival offers a unique opportunity for families and petrol-heads alike to see classic cars in action. Whether you're here for the Mount Ommanney hill-climb or the "Round the Houses" time trials, discover the heritage, speed, and community spirit that makes Northam the home of vintage racing.

The "Round the Houses" Legacy

Before purpose-built tracks like Wanneroo Raceway existed, racing was a grassroots affair held right on the main streets of regional towns.

  • A Rare Breed: Today, Northam and Albany are the only two towns in Australia that still host this "around-the-town" style of racing.

  • The Atmosphere: The streets are lined with bollards and temporary barriers, allowing thousands of spectators to get a front-row seat to time-trial action.

  • The Philosophy: Co-event coordinator Randle Beavis notes that the event thrives on a "natural curiosity for days gone by," preserving the spirit of 1950s motorsport.

A Timeline of Speed

Northam has a long history with horsepower—both mechanical and biological.

  • 1863: Thoroughbred horse racing begins in Northam.

  • 1952: The first "Round the Houses" motor racing event is held.

  • Late 1950s: The original street racing era is phased out.

  • 1999: The event is officially revived as the Northam Flying 50.

  • Present Day: Usually held in March or April, the festival now draws upwards of 5,000 "petrol-heads" and families.

The Weekend Itinerary

The festival is a two-day event managed by the Vintage Sports Car Club of WA with support from the Shire of Northam. It focuses on precision and history rather than just raw speed.

Day Event Type Location
Day 1 Hill-Climb Mount Ommanney
Day 2 Autokhana & Time Trials Northam CBD
Day 2 Family Fun Day Northam CBD

Note: The event serves as a living museum. While you'll see plenty of hot rods and classic cars, the heart of the show is the Vintage Sports Car Club of WA, which ensures these historical machines are exercised exactly as they were intended—on the pavement and under the sun.

  

Updated 31.03.2026