If you're Up for Unexpected, there's no better place to start than with North Queensland’s biggest adrenaline-fuelled weekend.

The NTI Townsville 500 is back — shifting gears from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 July, and transforming the streets of Townsville into a roaring, high-octane arena of motorsport, music, bull riding and unforgettable entertainment. Now in its 17th year, this Supercars round is more than a race. It’s a full-blown street party with a distinctly tropical twist.

Whether you're a first-timer or a long-time rev head, here's how to do the NTI Townsville 500, Townsville-style.

What’s new in 2025?

This year’s edition is set to break records and rev harder with some first-ever additions:

• Three days of Supercars racing across the entire weekend — more action, more adrenaline, more excuses to yell from the grandstand.

• A new-look Track to Town Parade where all 24 Supercars roll through the CBD, ending in a massive street party on Palmer Street.

• Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Australia joins the show for the first time ever — with an unmissable Friday night showdown between Australia and New Zealand’s best riders.

Tickets? Sorted.

Not locked it in yet? No worries — there's still time to grab your tickets via the official Supercars website.

Ticket types include:

• General Admission: Access to various viewing areas across the street circuit.

• Grandstand Seating: Reserved seats with prime views of the straights and chicanes.

• Hospitality Packages: Next-level experiences like the Paddock Club, with gourmet catering, premium drinks, and driver interviews.

Not to miss: Track to Town

Before the engines roar to life at Reid Park, the excitement spills into the streets — literally.

On Thursday 10 July, the entire Supercars fleet rolls through the heart of Townsville for the iconic Track to Town Parade. All 24 cars cruise from the track to the city in a thunderous convoy, giving fans the rare chance to see the machines up close and meet the drivers before race weekend officially kicks off.

The parade finishes up on Palmer Street, where the celebrations continue with a street party, live entertainment, and an electric atmosphere that sets the tone for the weekend ahead.

It’s not just a prelude — it’s a full-blown event in itself. Street eats, live beats, and that unmistakable Supercars buzz, all under the tropical night sky.

Getting there

Getting to Reid Park Street Circuit is easy — even easier when you’re not the one behind the wheel.

• Public transport: Just a 1km walk from the City Bus Hub, with extra services operating across the weekend.

• Taxi & rideshare: Designated drop-off zones on Flinders Street near Central Village.

• Parking: Limited paid parking available at Townsville State High School and First Avenue — check PriPark event parking for the latest info.

Refuel... the right way

When the engines wind down, your tastebuds can still take a victory lap.

• Palmer Street: Street party central and home to some of Townsville’s best restaurants and pub feeds.

• City Lane & City Arcade: Hidden laneways with big flavours, from tapas and dumplings to cocktails and cold craft beers.

Need caffeine the morning after? Hit up our coffee guide to find your brew crew.

Make it a weekend worth remembering

Don’t just come for the race — stay for the reef, the rooftop bars, and the island day trips.

• Take the ferry to Magnetic Island and chill out post-race with palm-fringed beaches and seaside cocktails.

• Stretch your legs with a hike up Castle Hill, or explore The Strand by scooter or sunset walk.

• Cool down with a visit to Jezzine Barracks, or dive deeper at the Museum of Underwater Art.

Need ideas? We've got your weekend guide right here.