October’s automotive events provided a strong example of how Lake Mountain can attract visitors during the green season, supporting Marysville and the surrounding region while making productive use of existing alpine infrastructure beyond winter.
Green season visitation through the Australian Tarmac Rally
On Friday, 23 October, Lake Mountain hosted the ATR Australian Tarmac Rally, which extended from Marysville through Lake Mountain and into the Eildon and Jamieson region. More than 60 competitors took part in the high-speed tarmac rally, with the broader event bringing more than 150 competitors, mechanics, marshals, teams and family members into the region over three days.
The benefits extended beyond visitation to the resort. Participants, crews and supporters generated demand for accommodation, food and beverage, fuel and other local services, while introducing new visitors to Marysville and the wider region.
The rally covered around 480 km of tarmac racing, with an average speed of just over 100 km/h. Despite challenging conditions, including torrential rain on day three, the event concluded with no significant incidents.
Collaboration supporting year-round visitation
Events such as the Tarmac Rally demonstrate the role alpine resorts can play in supporting year-round visitation. Using existing resort roads and infrastructure for appropriately managed events can attract new audiences, support surrounding communities and contribute to commercial activity beyond the traditional winter season.
Delivery relied on close coordination between Lake Mountain, Alpine Resorts Victoria, the Department of Transport and Planning/VicRoads, Victoria Police, CFA, Murrindindi Shire Council, the Australian Auto-Sport Alliance (AASA), Australian Tarmac Rally and Event Solutions Motorsport.
This collaborative approach supports safe event delivery, minimises disruption and strengthens relationships that can help attract similar events in the future. Risk and safety management was overseen by Event Solutions Motorsport in conjunction with AASA and the relevant authorities.
Lotus Drive Day
The following Thursday, 29 October, Lake Mountain hosted the annual Lotus Drive Day, providing another example of activity outside the winter season. The controlled drive experience brings Lotus owners and invited guests to the resort, supporting overnight stays in Marysville and spending with local businesses.
The Lotus program also connects Lake Mountain with a broader alpine itinerary incorporating Mt Buller and Mt Baw Baw. This highlights the potential for coordinated automotive experiences to encourage visitation across multiple alpine destinations outside winter.
Page last updated: 13/11/26