Just before the pandemic was officially declared in March, Australia’s country music capital, Tamworth, announced it would host a National Thunder Motorcycle Rally in October 2020.
It has now been postponed until October 2021.
Only a few hundred tickets were sold and all will be valid for next year unless customers want a refund, organisers say.
It will now be held from Friday to Monday 1-4 October 2021 at the state-of-the-art Australian Equine & Livestock Events Centre (AELEC) which also hosted the 2015 HOG Rally.
Organisers expected to attract thousands of riders descending for the long weekend of motorbikes, food and live music … and not just country music!
They are now aiming to carry over existing plans.
Tickets already purchased for the 2020 event will be valid for National Thunder 2021. Event organisers have made contact with all ticket-holders and other relevant stakeholders; those unable to attend in 2021 will be eligible for a refund.
The event was to include plenty of live rock music as well as a show especially produced for the rally featuring real horses and “iron horses” similar to the spectacular staged for the HOG Rally.
Tamworth HOG rallyOther highlights should include motorcycle and car displays, traders, guided rides around the district, more than 24 hours of entertainment and the giant Thunder Run through the streets of Tamworth.
The National Thunder Motorcycle Rally registration fee remains at $149 per person which includes all entertainment over the four days, a commemorative patch and t-shirt, rides and $50 raffle ticket.
Day passes may also be available closer to the event for those who can’t make the four days.
Tamworth hosts
The 2015 HOG Rally was a success mainly because of Tamworth, its welcoming people, great attractions, quality facilities and tourist orientation.
It’s a great central location for riders all over NSW and eastern states.
There are also some terrific roads to get there and to explore while at the rally.
Touring the Tamworth regionBecause Tamworth hosts the annual Country Music Festival they have plenty of accommodation choices including camping at ALEC for as little as $21.94 a night.
There are plenty of tourist attractions too. Apart from the iconic Big Golden Guitar and associated country music museum, there is also the popular Powerhouse Motorcycle Museum.
Powerhouse Motorcycle MuseumThe HOG rally was held in February which was pretty hot, but October should be more accommodating with usually dry conditions and maximums in the mid-20s.