Targa Not Returning to Mansfield in November

Published on 21 July 2023

After thirteen highly successful years TARGA High Country will not return to Mansfield this November following the final event held under the current agreement, which ran in February earlier this year.

The COVID pandemic has severely impacted the event in recent years, with postponements required in 2020 and 2021. Following multiple tragedies at TARGA Tasmania, a Motorsport Australia safety review of the sport led to a reduced High Country event earlier this year, with the removal of the highly successful and unique to Mansfield Street Stage.

TARGA CEO Mark Perry expressed great sadness at the changes required to the February 2023 event, which saw a reduced benefit for the Mansfield community.

“TARGA High Country and Mansfield have worked hand-in-hand alongside Mt. Buller and Mt. Stirling Resort Management since first meeting in 2009 to deliver an international motorsport event in the region, including an iconic and unique street stage in the heart of Mansfield,” he said.

“We have made lifelong friends along the way but the reality of the post-safety review requirements, combined with increasing costs, means running the Mansfield Street Stage is no longer possible.”

“We also understand Council’s concerns around the street stage. The discussion between us was an easy and positive one with agreement that this stage would not be run in the February 2023 event, which was the final event under the current agreement.”

“We sincerely thank the Mansfield Shire Council for their loyal support of TARGA for over a decade.”

“Plans continue to be developed for TARGA High Country following the recommendations of the Motorsport Australia safety review and further announcements are scheduled to be made in the months ahead.”

Mansfield Shire Mayor Cr James Tehan said the past ten years of TARGA have been fantastic.

“For the past decade Mansfield Shire has worked with TARGA to deliver this event for the benefit of our local businesses and community,” he said.

“Mansfield Shire very much appreciates all the work done by TARGA.”