Cathy McGowan (Indi, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Targa High Country has been run and won in what is its sixth year. This is tarmac rallying at its finest and it showcases some of the best touring routes in my wonderful electorate of Indi. It goes from Mansfield to Mount Buller, Jamieson to Eildon around the lake, Merton to Euroa, and Tolmie to King Valley. Each of the 204 entries brings a group of supporters, crew and family who stay, play and pay before and during the event in a multimillion dollar economic boost for the region. Targa has a reputation for using great driving roads, so there is also a spinoff in visitation year-round. Mansfield regularly receives group bookings from car clubs around the country and its own club has grown to 80 members. Tarmac rallying is growing in popularity as it provides a controlled environment for the driver, using existing road infrastructure. Governed by CAMS, the event is run by a Targa Australia, with the support of its partners, Mansfield Shire Council. I would particularly like to acknowledge the work of Judy Dixon and the Mount Buller and Mount Stirling Alpine Resort Management. It is a wonderful example of an event of state significance in regional Australia, returning significant social and economic benefits and worthy of multiagency support and co-operation. Thanks to all concerned. I look forward to seeing you back in the wonderful Indi electorate next year.