Targa Florio sets off in Torquay

One of the race's categories was open to classic cars produced between 1907 and 1976. Photos: KLAUS NANNESTAD

THE Australian version of one of the world’s most renowned events for classic cars began in Torquay for the first time on Thursday last week.

Point Danger saw a wide range of rare and treasured cars roll in and roll out at the start of the four-day Targa Florio Australian Tribute.

Event director Andrew Lawson said this year’s event had looked to create as many opportunities for community engagement as possible.

“A key focus for this year’s event has been to ensure the community and local regions benefit and that spectators enjoy the cars and interact with the drivers in a true motoring travelling celebration of classic cars.

“It’s an event the competitors love, but it’s much more than just about cars. It is about bringing people together, out of their houses, into the street, down to the local park, on the street corner to connect with the event and feel part of it.”

The competition involves both time trials and average speed tests. Neither are about raw speed, but rather the management of pace.

Some of the competitors do a great deal of study and preparation for the challenge, while others are simply there to enjoy the picturesque routes with fellow car enthusiasts.

Mr Lawson said the event has been uniting people for many years.

“This historic event, whose roots are in Sicily, Italy since 1906, connects with all ages and involves fine food, wine and festivities, as well as an appreciation of the incredible cars.”

The event finished at the Melbourne Italian Festa on Sunday.