Motor-cycle racing is generally believed to have started in Bathurst in 1911 on the roads around what is now known as Mount Panorama. Speedway style racing commenced in 1931 on what was known as the Vale Circuit. This continued until 1937, when the newly-built circuit at Mount Panorama was completed. The first race was held there in March 1938.

Mount Panorama has hosted various Australian Grand Prix, for both motor-cycles and open four-wheelers and, since October 1963, has been both the spiritual and physical home of touring car racing in this country.

Today, the city of Bathurst is virtually synonomous with that of motor racing and Mount Panorama. Bathurst, Australia's oldest inland settlement, is known throughout the world because of its famous motor racing circuit.

Mount Panorama is the only permanent public road racing circuit in Australia - it presents an exhilarating experience to those who drive or ride around it.

It is 6.213 kilometres in length, 874 metres above sea level and has grades of up to 1 in 6.13.

This is where world champions have driven or ridden, where dreams are created, shattered and fulfilled all in the same afternoon.

Three major endurance race meetings are held each year; the Bob Jane '99 in October for international 2 litre Super Touring cars, the FAI 1000 in November for V8 Touring cars and the Bikes at Easter.

Other events such as hill climbs and sprints are offered throughout the year by the Bathurst Light Car Club and motorcross events by the Panorama Motorcycle Club on the top of the Mount behind McPhillamy Park.

For most of the year Mount Panorama presents an environment of rural tranquility, however at race time, it is transformed by noise, fumes and frantic activity.

The National Motor Racing Museum (NMRM) is a unique Australian attraction located beside the famous international Mount Panorama motor racing circuit. The Museum offers for public viewing, a range of race cars, cycles, trophies, photographs, posters, special exhibits and memorabilia of Australian motor racing. Videos are continuously shown of past races.

The Museum Shop offers for sale books, videos, clothing, posters and souvenirs - mail orders are most welcome.

The Museum also offers memberships, with great benefits for those who choose to join this magnificent treasure trove of Australia's motor racing history.

Before you leave Bathurst, make sure that you drive the Mount Panorama circuit for yourself. Except at race times, it is a public road available for use by all. Also, don't forget to inspect the Victors' Walk outside the Civic Centre at the corner of William and Russell Streets.

The Museum is open every day (except Christmas Day and Good Friday) between the hours of 9:00am and 4:30pm and is located at Murray's Corner, at the foot of Mount Panorama. Click here for a Location map.

The National Motor Racing Museum’s collection includes race cars, cycles, trophies, photographs, paintings, posters, special exhibits and memorabilia of Australian motor racing. It depicts the history of motor racing in Australia with an emphasis on the international Mount Panorama motor racing circuit. Videos are shown of past races.

The Museum can be contacted by telephone on +61 2 6332 1872 or by fax on +61 2 6332 3349.