2024 Gippsland Rally Round Up

@drewhillphotos

The 2024 Middle of Everywhere Gippsland Rally delivered a thrilling contest, with the fight for victory decided by mere seconds at the final stage at Boisdale Hillclimb Track.

Rally leaders Harry Bates and Coral Taylor in their Toyota Gazoo Racing Yaris needed a perfect run to maintain their lead. Their closest rivals, Scott Pedder and Glen MacNeal, suffered a major setback after hitting a tree, damaging their suspension and driveshafts, which cost them the podium.

This allowed Lewis Bates and Anthony McLouglan, also in a Toyota Gazoo Racing Yaris, to secure second place, while Eddie Maguire and Zak Brakey in their Maguire Motorsport Skoda Fabia claimed third. Molly Taylor and Andy Sarandis finished fourth overall, taking first in the ARC MainFix Production Cup in their Subaru Impreza.

The two-wheel drive cup was won by Nick Seymour and Matt Whitten in their Wilmour Motors Ford Fiesta, finishing sixteenth overall.

The rally kicked off with the BSR Automotive Rally Show at the Port of Sale, drawing over a thousand fans to meet teams and explore the rally cars. Wellington Shire Council Mayor Ian Bye officially opened the event, setting the stage for a weekend of high-speed action.

With over seven thousand spectators attending, key viewing points like Cowwarr Weir and Boisdale Hillclimb Track offered prime spots to witness the competition. The event ran smoothly thanks to the efforts of over 250 volunteers, solidifying its reputation as one of Australia’s best-run motorsport events. The organizing team extends sincere thanks to all involved.

@drewhillphotos