The long-awaited 2026 Weeks of Speed Festival is set to ignite Gunnedah Shire’s calendar with a series of high-octane events this March. Supported by the Gunnedah Shire Council, the festival showcases an array of motorsport activities, including drag races, speedway racing, and various displays featuring hot rods, model aeroplanes, and gliders.
Mayor Colleen Fuller OAM encourages residents and visitors alike to explore the packed schedule and participate in adrenaline-fueled events. “Weeks of Speed is a well-loved annual festival embraced by the motorsport community,” she stated. “It covers everything from shooting, tractors, and mountain bikes to country horse racing and the Full Throttle Fest.” The festival also features the traditional Billy Boiling Championships of NSW at The Railway Hotel, adding a unique local flavor.
This year’s festival program includes some changes, notably the postponement of the Railway Cup, hosted by the Gunnedah Motorcycle Club. The club aims to reschedule this event outside the Weeks of Speed program, with a new date to be announced soon.
One highlight of the festival is the popular Tractor Trek, scheduled for March 7, 2026. Unlike previous years, there will be no road closures this time. Participants will drive through the Central Business District (CBD), allowing spectators to view the tractors and racing cars in motion. The procession will conclude at the Woolworths car park, where the official festival opening and the Show ‘n’ Shine will take place. Mayor Fuller noted, “By keeping Conadilly Street open, the community can enjoy all the colour and character of the Tractor Trek while minimising traffic disruption.”
The Gunnedah Motoring Enthusiasts will present the Full Throttle Fest as part of the festival, generating excitement with plans for a Hill Climb event later in the year, further energising the local motorsport scene. Mayor Fuller emphasized the festival’s significance for the Shire’s economy, stating, “We welcome the visitors who will attend this year’s Weeks of Speed, and all the competitors taking part. Events like these are important for our Shire, bringing social and economic benefits to our community.”
She elaborated that the festival is expected to inject more than $250,000 into the local economy throughout March, impacting accommodation providers, pubs, cafes, retail outlets, and community organizations. “March is typically a quieter month for domestic travellers in the Shire, so events like Weeks of Speed that enhance the calendar and increase visitation and expenditure contribute positively to our community.”
Mayor Fuller also commended the Weeks of Speed Committee for their dedication and hard work in organizing the festival. “Congratulations to the committee for all their efforts in preparing for this year’s festival. Without volunteers, events like these would not take place in our community,” she remarked.
For those interested in the full 2026 Weeks of Speed program, details are available on the Visit Gunnedah website at www.visitgunnedah.com.au. Updates and information can also be found on the Weeks of Speed Facebook page, ensuring that attendees stay informed about all festival activities.
