Hidden Valley Drag Strip, located in the beautiful city of Darwin, Northern Territory, is a car racing track, event venue, and sports complex. Offering exhilarating drag racing entertainment, Hidden Valley Drag Strip is a popular destination for motorsport enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike. Whether you're a passionate racer or a spectator looking for thrilling entertainment, Hidden Valley Drag Strip has something for everyone.
Hidden Valley Drag Strip hosts a range of major events throughout the dry season, which runs from May to November. These events showcase the most powerful motorsport on the planet and attract competitors and spectators from all over the country. From intense competition rounds to the prestigious Top End Nationals, featuring the Summit Racing Round One 2023–24 Series, there is always something exciting happening at the strip. For those seeking a more casual experience, the venue also offers regular events that provide an opportunity for anyone willing to participate.
Founded in 1969 as the King Cobra Rod & Custom Club, the Hidden Valley Drag Racing Association (HVDRA) has been committed to promoting hot rodding and drag racing in the Top End. Initially, drag racing took place at the Hughes Landing Field, an abandoned WWII bomber strip south of Darwin. However, the track eventually found its permanent home at the abandoned Livingston airstrip beside the Stuart Highway, 54 km out of town. Despite the isolation and challenging conditions, the crowds regularly exceeded 1000, and up to 60 competitors raced.
In 1983, due to safety concerns regarding the ageing Livingston strip and plans to widen the Stuart Highway, racing was suspended at the old strip. This marked the beginning of the HVDRA's search for a new venue closer to Darwin. In 1979, Marshal Perron announced the establishment of a motor sports complex at Hidden Valley, located approximately 15 km south of the city. This development was coordinated and promoted by the Motor Sports Council.
The first stage of the Hidden Valley drag strip was completed in 1984. Designed and constructed in accordance with International Grade drag racing requirements, the track is completely level over the quarter-mile timed distance, with a 1% crossfall to the south and a braking area that falls away at 1% from the finish line. The Northern Territory Government provided initial funding for this stage, while the club contributed additional funding and effort. The track was officially opened on June 9, 1985, by Chief Minister Marshall Perron, supported by other prominent figures in the motorsport community.
To enhance the racing experience, Hidden Valley Drag Strip features state-of-the-art floodlighting, designed and built by the club itself and commissioned in September 1986. This lighting is of television broadcast standard and was considered one of the best lighting installations in the country at the time. In 1996, highway standard lighting was installed in the braking area, once again a club project.
Hidden Valley Drag Strip continues to thrive as a top-notch drag racing venue, attracting both local and national attention. With its rich history, dedication to the sport, and commitment to providing thrilling entertainment, Hidden Valley Drag Strip is a must-visit destination for all motorsport enthusiasts in the Northern Territory and beyond.
