July 12, 2023
Up to 220 historic, classic and performance cars contest time trials on a round-the-houses track in the former goldrush village of Leyburn, on the Southern Darling Downs. Plus many off-track family attractions.
Visitor Information
- 27th Historic Leyburn Sprints | Grand Prix Heritage Festival
- 19-20 August 2023
- Macintyre St, Leyburn, Qld 4365
- Starts 8am Saturday & Sunday, gates open 6.30am
- Highlights – Up to 220 historic, classic and performance cars chase the fastest time on a 1.0 km closed street course. Plus Vintage Caravans display, Shannons ‘n’ Shine (Sunday), markets, race car and helicopter rides, live music, fun run and much more.
- History – The Historic Leyburn Sprints commemorates the Australian Grand Prix run on a local ex-wartime airfield on 18 September 1949, when 30,000 people attended. In the 19th century, Leyburn was a goldrush town and Cobb & Co. staging post. Many historical landmarks can be visited, including buildings and a monument at the old grand prix track.
- Tickets (on-line or at the gate), adult Day $25, Weekend $35; children under 14 free
- Accommodation – camping available at four local Hicamp sites, plus many other options in the region between Toowoomba and Warwick, including motels, classic country pubs, Airbnbs and farm stays. Check Southern Queensland Country.
- Directions - Leyburn is on Toowoomba–Karara Road, via scenic routes 195kms west of Brisbane, 66kms south-west of Toowoomba and 61kms north-west of Warwick. See RACQ Trip Planner for directions.
Grand Prix Heritage On The Southern Downs
One of Australia’s most popular motorsport heritage events, the community-run Historic Leyburn Sprints celebrates the running of the 1949 Australian Grand Prix near this former goldrush village on the Southern Darling Downs. A huge variety of fabulous cars ranging in vintage from 1925 to modern-day lines up for their runs outside the 1863-licensed Royal Hotel, the event’s lively social hub throughout the weekend. Relaxed, country-style family fun is the theme, with plenty of interaction between spectators and race drivers keen to show off their cars up-close. Up to 15,000 people attend across the weekend. Proceeds benefit local community projects and volunteer organisations.
