The Bend Motorsport Park
Location:
Tailem Bend, SA, Australia
Local Weather & Time
Upcoming at The Bend Motorsport Park
|
AirTouch 500 at The Bend
Supercars
11 - 13 Sep
|
Track Info
The Bend Motorsport Park - Tailem Bend, South Australia, Australia
Modern multi-layout permanent circuit - clockwise - ultra-long GT layout plus the 4.95 km International course with 18 turns
When was the track built?
Plans to redevelop the former Mitsubishi test facility were approved in 2015, ground broke in 2016 and the venue opened in January 2018. Designed to FIA Grade 2 standards with multiple links, The Bend offers eight main circuit configurations, a kart track and a national-spec drag strip. The 7.770 km GT layout is the longest permanent circuit in Australia, while the 4.950 km International course hosts most headline races.
When was its first race?
The complex’s first race weekend for motorsport was April 2018 with the Shannons Nationals. Supercars arrived that August for the first The Bend SuperSprint, cementing the International layout on Australia’s top calendar.
What's the circuit like?
- Two personalities: The GT Circuit is a 7.770 km epic with 35 turns - perfect for prototypes and endurance running. The International is a 4.950 km, 18 turn lap tuned for Supercars, Superbikes and national series.
- Fast-flow flow: Long-radius corners link into heavy-brake hairpins, rewarding front-end response and traction. The wind across the Murraylands can shift balance corner to corner.
- Overtaking zones: Big stops at the end of the pit straight and the back-straight hairpin on the International layout are prime passing spots in Supercars and GT racing.
- Benchmark pace: GT race lap record 2:38.673 by an LMP2 - International race lap record 1:40.7295 by F3 underlines the track’s speed window.
Lap records and benchmarks (by layout)
- GT Circuit 7.770 km: Race lap 2:38.673 - Aidan Read, Ligier JS P217 LMP2, 2020 Asian Le Mans. Qualifying best 2:35.698 - Ben Barnicoat, Dallara P217, 2020.
- International 4.950 km: Race lap 1:40.7295 - John Magro, Dallara F308 (F3), 2019. S5000 qualifying reference 1:41.2560 - Thomas Randle, 2019.
- ASBK motorcycle records (International): Superbike race lap 1:50.529 - Troy Herfoss, 2023. Supersport race lap 1:54.522 - Harrison Voight, 2023.
- EV benchmark (GT): Porsche Taycan Turbo S - 3:30.344 agreed first production EV record, 2021.
Why go?
A purpose-built motorsport campus with superb spectator banks and modern amenities - and a rare chance to see prototypes, GT3s, Supercars and Superbikes on one of the longest permanent circuits in the world. The International layout produces genuine out-braking moves, while the GT Circuit showcases endurance strategy and outright aero grip.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 1 complex (International): Starts, restarts and late brakers after the pit straight.
- Back-straight hairpin: Classic divebomb zone that sets up a slipstream to the next sector.
- Final sector: Linked corners show tyre management and traction into the sprint to the flag.
- Main grandstand and rooftop viewing: Panoramic sightlines over pit lane and much of the International course.
Not just one series: events at The Bend
Supercars Championship: International layout headliner since 2018, with the The Bend 500 endurance round added for 2025.
Asian Le Mans Series: Hosted the 4 Hours of The Bend in 2020 on the GT Circuit - a rare LMP2 visit to Australia.
ASBK & international bikes: Regular Australian Superbike rounds and past Asia Road Racing events underline the track’s two-wheel credentials.
TCR and GT World Challenge: Touring and GT3 series regularly race the International configuration with deep fields.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to The Bend Motorsport Park - Tailem Bend, South Australia
Best options are driving via the South Eastern Freeway to Dukes Highway with on-site spectator parking, event-day shuttle coaches from Adelaide and Mount Barker when scheduled, and intercity buses to Tailem Bend then local transfer. The venue sits on the A8 Dukes Hwy just east of Tailem Bend.
Public transport - workable with event coaches or a town transfer
- Event-day shuttle coaches: On Supercars weekends the organiser and venue have run direct shuttles from Adelaide Central Bus Station (Franklin St), plus Mount Barker and other pickup points. Timetables and fares vary by year - check the current event page.
- Charter options: Private operators (for example, Adelaide Star Bus) sell return transfers from the CBD to The Bend on headline events.
- Regular coaches to Tailem Bend: Intercity buses run between Adelaide and Tailem Bend. From the town stop, arrange a taxi - rideshare or a prebooked local transfer to the circuit precinct.
Driving and parking - easiest for most visitors
- From Adelaide: Take M1 South Eastern Fwy toward Murray Bridge, continue to A8 Dukes Hwy, then follow The Bend Motorsport Park signs to the gate shown on your ticket.
- Public parking: Large on-site fields are opened and signed on event days. For Supercars, public parking has been routed via Gate B with limited spaces - arrive early.
- On-site stays: The venue includes Rydges Pit Lane Hotel and BIG4 The Bend Holiday Park if you prefer to walk to the gates each day.
Rideshare and taxis
- Set destination: The Bend Motorsport Park, 543 Dukes Hwy. Staff will direct drop off - pick up to the active gate or signed set-down zone for your event.
- Town transfers: If you are staying in Tailem Bend or Murray Bridge, local taxis - shuttles often operate on race days. Check your accommodation for partner services.
Walking from lots and coach set downs
- From event coaches: Buses set down at the venue perimeter with stewarded footpaths into the paddock and grandstand areas - follow wayfinding to your printed gate.
- From on-site parking: Expect 5 - 15 minute signed walks depending on the field open and your grandstand or hill. For Supercars, check the event map linked from the race weekend page.
Airports and long distance travel
- Adelaide Airport ADL → The Bend: roughly 100 km by road. Hire cars, private transfers and event-day coach options are available - aim for the M1 → A8 route.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Event coach users: board at Franklin St Bus Station in Adelaide or Mount Barker Park n Ride when offered - alight at the venue perimeter and follow signs.
- Drivers: follow M1 → A8 Dukes Hwy and event signs to your printed gate - public parking has previously been via Gate B.
- Staying close by: on-site hotel and holiday park options reduce the need to drive - book early for major events.
Always follow the gate and lot printed on your e-ticket and check the event page for final shuttle timetables, traffic plans and parking maps for your specific weekend.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around The Bend Motorsport Park - Tailem Bend (South Australia)
Whether you are here for Supercars, Australian Superbikes, TCR and GT weekends, historic festivals or trackdays, the modern multi layout circuit sits beside the Murray River with wildlife parks, river towns, coast drives and Adelaide Hills day trips close by for non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Monarto Safari Park: Open range zoo with Lions 360 cage experience, giraffes and cheetahs. About 15 minutes from Murray Bridge and around an hour from Adelaide. Timed entries recommended.
- Old Tailem Town Pioneer Village: Stroll a recreated 19th - 20th century town with more than 100 historic buildings and photo friendly streets.
- Murray Bridge riverfront: Sturt Reserve playgrounds, lawns and easy boat tours when schedules align. Look for the quirky Bunyip sculpture by the water for a quick kid pleaser.
- The Bend Kartdrome: Arrive - and - drive karting operates on selected non event days. Check the weekly calendar if you want to fit this around sessions.
- Uneek Animals or local farms: Small animal encounters and seasonal farm stops suited to younger families.
Family venues often use dated tickets on weekends and school holidays. Morning slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Hahndorf - Adelaide Hills: Galleries, German heritage bakeries and cafés in an easy walking village setting.
- Monarto Safari Resort add on: New resort beside the park offers guided dawn and dusk drives if you are staying extra nights.
- Regional history stops: Tailem Bend Railway heritage displays and small local museums make compact indoor breaks.
- Adelaide city day: South Australian Museum, Art Gallery of SA and the Central Market form a great wet weather trio if you add a city night.
Eat and drink like a local
- Tailem Bend and Murray Bridge: Riverfront pubs, bakeries, classic Aussie cafés and family friendly grills that work well for groups after qualifying.
- Adelaide Hills detours: Cellar doors and cideries around Hahndorf, Verdun and Lenswood for relaxed long lunches if your schedule allows.
- Race week tip: Friday - Saturday prime tables in Murray Bridge and popular Hills venues book out quickly on headline weekends. Reserve early for larger parties.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Murray River paddle or cruise: Short boat trips and kayak hires in season for calm water time between sessions.
- Walking and birding: Riverfront paths at Sturt Reserve and ferry crossings make easy loops. Keep an eye out for pelicans and kites.
- Lake Alexandrina outlooks: Gentle shoreline detours near Wellington and Narrung if you have a spare morning.
- Cycling: Quiet back roads around Tailem Bend suit easy spins. Start early in warmer months.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Coorong National Park - 60 to 120 minutes depending on section. Long lagoons, bird watching, 4WD beach access in designated areas and quiet boardwalks.
- Goolwa - Victor Harbor - 75 to 105 minutes. Heritage wharf, steam - towed cockle train on select days and coastal lookouts. Great for a sea breeze day.
- Adelaide Hills loop - 60 to 90 minutes. Cleland Wildlife Park, Mount Lofty Summit and botanic gardens for a cool climate change of scene.
- Langhorne Creek wine region - 45 to 60 minutes. Historic cellar doors and long lunch options among river plains vineyards.
- Monarto Safari Park deep dive - 20 to 30 minutes. Expand to keeper talks and behind - the - scenes programs if you have a full free day.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Parks, cruises and popular wildlife experiences often require timed tickets or have last entry cutoffs.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - The circuit’s busiest period clusters from autumn to spring with Supercars, Superbikes and national series. Hotels in Tailem Bend and Murray Bridge fill Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Mediterranean climate. Expect hot, dry summer afternoons and crisp winter mornings. Pack sunscreen, a hat, layers for wind on the open plains and a light rain shell for passing showers.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site experiences: Karting, dragway events and guided tours run on selected dates and may pause or switch to special hours during headline weekends.
- Ground and shade: Viewing involves long, open walks between corners. A small folding chair, sun protection and refillable bottles make days more comfortable.
- Driving extras: Public track activities and manufacturer experiences operate year round. Check the circuit calendar for availability on your dates.
- Wildlife and rural roads: Watch for kangaroos at dawn and dusk, especially after sessions when returning to town.
Opening hours, seasonal programs and event week operations can change - check official circuit and attraction sites for your exact dates.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Tailem Bend, SA, Australia
Track Info
The Bend Motorsport Park - Tailem Bend, South Australia, Australia
Modern multi-layout permanent circuit - clockwise - ultra-long GT layout plus the 4.95 km International course with 18 turns
When was the track built?
Plans to redevelop the former Mitsubishi test facility were approved in 2015, ground broke in 2016 and the venue opened in January 2018. Designed to FIA Grade 2 standards with multiple links, The Bend offers eight main circuit configurations, a kart track and a national-spec drag strip. The 7.770 km GT layout is the longest permanent circuit in Australia, while the 4.950 km International course hosts most headline races.
When was its first race?
The complex’s first race weekend for motorsport was April 2018 with the Shannons Nationals. Supercars arrived that August for the first The Bend SuperSprint, cementing the International layout on Australia’s top calendar.
What's the circuit like?
- Two personalities: The GT Circuit is a 7.770 km epic with 35 turns - perfect for prototypes and endurance running. The International is a 4.950 km, 18 turn lap tuned for Supercars, Superbikes and national series.
- Fast-flow flow: Long-radius corners link into heavy-brake hairpins, rewarding front-end response and traction. The wind across the Murraylands can shift balance corner to corner.
- Overtaking zones: Big stops at the end of the pit straight and the back-straight hairpin on the International layout are prime passing spots in Supercars and GT racing.
- Benchmark pace: GT race lap record 2:38.673 by an LMP2 - International race lap record 1:40.7295 by F3 underlines the track’s speed window.
Lap records and benchmarks (by layout)
- GT Circuit 7.770 km: Race lap 2:38.673 - Aidan Read, Ligier JS P217 LMP2, 2020 Asian Le Mans. Qualifying best 2:35.698 - Ben Barnicoat, Dallara P217, 2020.
- International 4.950 km: Race lap 1:40.7295 - John Magro, Dallara F308 (F3), 2019. S5000 qualifying reference 1:41.2560 - Thomas Randle, 2019.
- ASBK motorcycle records (International): Superbike race lap 1:50.529 - Troy Herfoss, 2023. Supersport race lap 1:54.522 - Harrison Voight, 2023.
- EV benchmark (GT): Porsche Taycan Turbo S - 3:30.344 agreed first production EV record, 2021.
Why go?
A purpose-built motorsport campus with superb spectator banks and modern amenities - and a rare chance to see prototypes, GT3s, Supercars and Superbikes on one of the longest permanent circuits in the world. The International layout produces genuine out-braking moves, while the GT Circuit showcases endurance strategy and outright aero grip.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 1 complex (International): Starts, restarts and late brakers after the pit straight.
- Back-straight hairpin: Classic divebomb zone that sets up a slipstream to the next sector.
- Final sector: Linked corners show tyre management and traction into the sprint to the flag.
- Main grandstand and rooftop viewing: Panoramic sightlines over pit lane and much of the International course.
Not just one series: events at The Bend
Supercars Championship: International layout headliner since 2018, with the The Bend 500 endurance round added for 2025.
Asian Le Mans Series: Hosted the 4 Hours of The Bend in 2020 on the GT Circuit - a rare LMP2 visit to Australia.
ASBK & international bikes: Regular Australian Superbike rounds and past Asia Road Racing events underline the track’s two-wheel credentials.
TCR and GT World Challenge: Touring and GT3 series regularly race the International configuration with deep fields.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to The Bend Motorsport Park - Tailem Bend, South Australia
Best options are driving via the South Eastern Freeway to Dukes Highway with on-site spectator parking, event-day shuttle coaches from Adelaide and Mount Barker when scheduled, and intercity buses to Tailem Bend then local transfer. The venue sits on the A8 Dukes Hwy just east of Tailem Bend.
Public transport - workable with event coaches or a town transfer
- Event-day shuttle coaches: On Supercars weekends the organiser and venue have run direct shuttles from Adelaide Central Bus Station (Franklin St), plus Mount Barker and other pickup points. Timetables and fares vary by year - check the current event page.
- Charter options: Private operators (for example, Adelaide Star Bus) sell return transfers from the CBD to The Bend on headline events.
- Regular coaches to Tailem Bend: Intercity buses run between Adelaide and Tailem Bend. From the town stop, arrange a taxi - rideshare or a prebooked local transfer to the circuit precinct.
Driving and parking - easiest for most visitors
- From Adelaide: Take M1 South Eastern Fwy toward Murray Bridge, continue to A8 Dukes Hwy, then follow The Bend Motorsport Park signs to the gate shown on your ticket.
- Public parking: Large on-site fields are opened and signed on event days. For Supercars, public parking has been routed via Gate B with limited spaces - arrive early.
- On-site stays: The venue includes Rydges Pit Lane Hotel and BIG4 The Bend Holiday Park if you prefer to walk to the gates each day.
Rideshare and taxis
- Set destination: The Bend Motorsport Park, 543 Dukes Hwy. Staff will direct drop off - pick up to the active gate or signed set-down zone for your event.
- Town transfers: If you are staying in Tailem Bend or Murray Bridge, local taxis - shuttles often operate on race days. Check your accommodation for partner services.
Walking from lots and coach set downs
- From event coaches: Buses set down at the venue perimeter with stewarded footpaths into the paddock and grandstand areas - follow wayfinding to your printed gate.
- From on-site parking: Expect 5 - 15 minute signed walks depending on the field open and your grandstand or hill. For Supercars, check the event map linked from the race weekend page.
Airports and long distance travel
- Adelaide Airport ADL → The Bend: roughly 100 km by road. Hire cars, private transfers and event-day coach options are available - aim for the M1 → A8 route.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Event coach users: board at Franklin St Bus Station in Adelaide or Mount Barker Park n Ride when offered - alight at the venue perimeter and follow signs.
- Drivers: follow M1 → A8 Dukes Hwy and event signs to your printed gate - public parking has previously been via Gate B.
- Staying close by: on-site hotel and holiday park options reduce the need to drive - book early for major events.
Always follow the gate and lot printed on your e-ticket and check the event page for final shuttle timetables, traffic plans and parking maps for your specific weekend.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around The Bend Motorsport Park - Tailem Bend (South Australia)
Whether you are here for Supercars, Australian Superbikes, TCR and GT weekends, historic festivals or trackdays, the modern multi layout circuit sits beside the Murray River with wildlife parks, river towns, coast drives and Adelaide Hills day trips close by for non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Monarto Safari Park: Open range zoo with Lions 360 cage experience, giraffes and cheetahs. About 15 minutes from Murray Bridge and around an hour from Adelaide. Timed entries recommended.
- Old Tailem Town Pioneer Village: Stroll a recreated 19th - 20th century town with more than 100 historic buildings and photo friendly streets.
- Murray Bridge riverfront: Sturt Reserve playgrounds, lawns and easy boat tours when schedules align. Look for the quirky Bunyip sculpture by the water for a quick kid pleaser.
- The Bend Kartdrome: Arrive - and - drive karting operates on selected non event days. Check the weekly calendar if you want to fit this around sessions.
- Uneek Animals or local farms: Small animal encounters and seasonal farm stops suited to younger families.
Family venues often use dated tickets on weekends and school holidays. Morning slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Hahndorf - Adelaide Hills: Galleries, German heritage bakeries and cafés in an easy walking village setting.
- Monarto Safari Resort add on: New resort beside the park offers guided dawn and dusk drives if you are staying extra nights.
- Regional history stops: Tailem Bend Railway heritage displays and small local museums make compact indoor breaks.
- Adelaide city day: South Australian Museum, Art Gallery of SA and the Central Market form a great wet weather trio if you add a city night.
Eat and drink like a local
- Tailem Bend and Murray Bridge: Riverfront pubs, bakeries, classic Aussie cafés and family friendly grills that work well for groups after qualifying.
- Adelaide Hills detours: Cellar doors and cideries around Hahndorf, Verdun and Lenswood for relaxed long lunches if your schedule allows.
- Race week tip: Friday - Saturday prime tables in Murray Bridge and popular Hills venues book out quickly on headline weekends. Reserve early for larger parties.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Murray River paddle or cruise: Short boat trips and kayak hires in season for calm water time between sessions.
- Walking and birding: Riverfront paths at Sturt Reserve and ferry crossings make easy loops. Keep an eye out for pelicans and kites.
- Lake Alexandrina outlooks: Gentle shoreline detours near Wellington and Narrung if you have a spare morning.
- Cycling: Quiet back roads around Tailem Bend suit easy spins. Start early in warmer months.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Coorong National Park - 60 to 120 minutes depending on section. Long lagoons, bird watching, 4WD beach access in designated areas and quiet boardwalks.
- Goolwa - Victor Harbor - 75 to 105 minutes. Heritage wharf, steam - towed cockle train on select days and coastal lookouts. Great for a sea breeze day.
- Adelaide Hills loop - 60 to 90 minutes. Cleland Wildlife Park, Mount Lofty Summit and botanic gardens for a cool climate change of scene.
- Langhorne Creek wine region - 45 to 60 minutes. Historic cellar doors and long lunch options among river plains vineyards.
- Monarto Safari Park deep dive - 20 to 30 minutes. Expand to keeper talks and behind - the - scenes programs if you have a full free day.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Parks, cruises and popular wildlife experiences often require timed tickets or have last entry cutoffs.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - The circuit’s busiest period clusters from autumn to spring with Supercars, Superbikes and national series. Hotels in Tailem Bend and Murray Bridge fill Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Mediterranean climate. Expect hot, dry summer afternoons and crisp winter mornings. Pack sunscreen, a hat, layers for wind on the open plains and a light rain shell for passing showers.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site experiences: Karting, dragway events and guided tours run on selected dates and may pause or switch to special hours during headline weekends.
- Ground and shade: Viewing involves long, open walks between corners. A small folding chair, sun protection and refillable bottles make days more comfortable.
- Driving extras: Public track activities and manufacturer experiences operate year round. Check the circuit calendar for availability on your dates.
- Wildlife and rural roads: Watch for kangaroos at dawn and dusk, especially after sessions when returning to town.
Opening hours, seasonal programs and event week operations can change - check official circuit and attraction sites for your exact dates.
