Coffs Harbour has been confirmed to host the finale of both the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship and RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship in November.

The revamped Coffs Coast Rally will feature stages previously used in the World Rally Championship Rally Australia event.

The New South Wales Government has thrown its support behind the event, which will mark the sixth and final round of the ARC, plus crown a champion for the regional FIA title.

The November 26-28 event comes after bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic cancelled the previous two editions. Bushfires also forced what should have been the final WRC round at the northern NSW town, in 2019, to be called off.

“The NSW Nationals are building a safer and stronger regional NSW by securing world-class events for country cities, showcasing our incredible regions to the world,” said NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro.

“This is an example of what can happen when you have a council who is prepared to work with the government and stakeholders to bring world-class events to regional NSW.”

Motorsport Australia president Andrew Fraser hailed the announcement as a win.

“The Coffs Coast has been a big part of the Australian rally scene in recent years and we know this 2021 event will be another fantastic event for the region,” he said.

“There’s no doubt that Coffs people know how to put on a world class rally and we are really excited to hosting this event which will see a great mix of competitors from both Australia and overseas late in 2021.

“Of course we will work closely with the NSW Government to ensure the event follows all COVID Safe protocols, including arrival of any international crews and spectators, who will be subject to the entry requirements at the time of the event.”

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh believes the APRC commitment will provide significant benefits for the region.

“The NSW Nationals are creating a safer and stronger Coffs Harbour and supporting this event will bring a valuable boost to the local economy,” he said.

“Our tourism and hospitality sector has been reeling since the bushfires and COVID struck and this event will go a long way in terms of restarting our economy.

“The rally will bring domestic and international visitors to the region, showcasing Coffs Harbour to the world, and encouraging returning visitors to secure tourism benefits now and into the future.”