Touring Car Masters will contest an eight-round calendar in 2018 including a first trip to Townsville.

The calendar takes on a similar feel to that of 2017 despite the extra round, starting in Adelaide for the 10th time in 11 years before leaving the landmass for a first round at Symmons Plains since 2015.

Winton and Hidden Valley follow in their same slots before Townsville effectively replaces Queensland Raceway.

The series then heads to Sandown, Bathurst, and Newcastle as it does this year.

However, a debut in North Queensland is being hailed as a major event for TCM, particularly since the creation of a ‘Bring TCM to Townsville’ Facebook group several years ago which has more than 1,500 members.

“There has been significant momentum generated in Queensland to see Touring Car Masters race in Townsville and we are proud to be finally making the trip for the first time in 2018,” said category manager Tony Hunter.

“The local fans have been very vocal and passionate about their support of the category and we’re looking forward to putting on a show for them next July.

“There is a strong Muscle Car culture in the North and we think TCM can be a fantastic addition to the Townsville 400 event. I know everyone is looking forward to making the trip.

“2018 represents our best calendar yet and we are appreciative of the great relationship with the team at Supercars for their support in putting it together.

“TCM has established itself as one of the most popular categories racing at rounds of the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship and this calendar reflects that.

“We will be taking our form of racing, our great cars and stars to more corners of Australia than ever before. Not only will it be great for our competitors, but a thank you to our great series partners and supporters.

John Bowe leads the ProMasters class and outright standings with just one round remaining in the current season, supporting the Coates Hire Newcastle 500 on November 24-26.

Touring Car Masters 2018 Calendar