Mount Panorama – Motor Racing Circuit, Views and Wahluu

Mount Panorama is both a motor racing circuit and a place of great significance to the Wiradjuri. The boardwalk opens up views across the circuit, Bathurst and the Bathurst Plains; at the lookout, you can learn more about the significance of the place to the Wiradjuri and the motorsport community. Two themes that shape the character of Mount Panorama come together here: the history of motorsport and a much older cultural connection.

The circuit and the boardwalk

Outside major events, Mount Panorama is a public road. Visitors can drive the entire circuit for free. This makes the route a special part of the area even outside event periods: the motor racing circuit can be experienced not only as the setting for major competitions, but also by driving it yourself.

The 1.7-kilometre boardwalk offers a different perspective. It runs from Griffins Bend to the Bathurst Light Car Club near the exit at Forrest's Elbow. From the elevated path and viewing platform, visitors can see the motor racing circuit, the Mount Panorama sign, the city of Bathurst and the expansive Bathurst Plains. If you would rather take in the circuit from an elevated perspective, this clearly defined route offers several distinctive viewpoints.

Wahluu and the history of motorsport

Mount Panorama/Wahluu has been a place of significance to the Wiradjuri for many thousands of years. Wahluu means “sacred place” and was an initiation site for young men. This history gives the place a distinct significance beyond its well-known role in motorsport. At the boardwalk lookout, you can learn more about the significance of Mount Panorama/Wahluu to the Wiradjuri and the motorsport community.

The National Motor Racing Museum is located beside the circuit. It celebrates the history, personalities and achievements of Australian motorsport and has a changing collection of more than 100 racing cars and motorcycles. Those interested in the development of motorsport will find a dedicated focus on the subject at Mount Panorama.

Memorials also keep racing history alive. The Bathurst Endurance Walk is located at the National Motor Racing Museum and honours the winners of the Bathurst 6 Hour, Bathurst 12 Hour and Bathurst 24 Hour races. At the Mount Panorama motor racing circuit in Bathurst, the Peter Brock Memorial commemorates the “King of the Mountain”. The statue depicts Peter Brock with the James Hardy Trophy on his iconic 1984 Holden VK Commodore.

On foot, by bike or at a race

Visitors can walk or cycle on the Mount Panorama motor racing circuit. There are no footpaths along most of the circuit, so take care; high-visibility clothing is recommended. This advice is especially relevant if you want to experience the circuit on foot or by bike rather than by car.

The events calendar adds further highlights: the Bathurst 1000 takes place every October at the Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit. Challenge Bathurst is held every November and gives experienced motorsport competitors and owners of road-legal high-performance vehicles the opportunity to drive on the circuit. The two events therefore cater to different forms of motorsport.

When looking for a holiday rental in Mount Panorama, you can shape your travel plans around what interests you most: the circuit itself, the views from the boardwalk, Wiradjuri history or the memorials to Australian motorsport. These highlights can help you decide how Mount Panorama fits your interests as a travel destination.

More places to explore: Lake Innes, East Lynne, Ewingsdale, Dural, Wattle Grove, Midginbil, Yenda and Toongabbie.

Go to the broader travel overview: New South Wales.