NEWCASTLE Harbour could resemble a “mini-Monaco” at the weekend when a string of boats anchor off Wharf Road for the Newcastle 500.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The harbour was lined with vessels ranging from superyachts to tinnies in 2017 and even more boats are expected to be moored by the circuit from Friday.
Supercars event manager Kurt Sakzewski said the collection of vessels would help showcase the best of the city.
“The vision is being broadcast live nationally and into well over 300 million homes internationally, which is one of the many benefits for the city, lifting the profile along with the big economic boost,” he said.
“Along with the Gold Coast, Newcastle is truly one of our most spectacular circuits. It’s a mini-Monaco right here in Newcastle.
“And without the event being here they are pictures millions of people may not have seen.”
Jamie Whincup flipped off the back of superyacht ‘Corroboree’ to celebrate last year’s title-winning race and the vessel has been confirmed to return by luxury boat charter company Sydney Harbour Exclusive.
The company advertises the Corroboree for hire at $18,000 for 24 hours.
“Facilitating up to 110 guests, this beautiful superyacht has it all,” the company’s website boasts.
“She is your perfect match for weddings, corporate and private events alike.”
The vessel features a state-of-the-art entertainment system, 3000 movies, Xbox/PlayStation, high-speed internet, hydraulic swim platform, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and a jet ski.
Roads and Maritime Services boating safety officers and NSW Water Police are expected to be on patrol throughout the weekend.
A spokesperson for the RMS said it was “important to note that the view of the race track from the water is extremely limited due to race infrastructure and spectator crowds”.
“A declared anchoring area was marked out adjacent to last year’s Newcastle 500 Supercars event precinct with about 40 vessels taking up position during the three day event,” the spokesperson said.
“No fee was charged for vessel anchoring and no fee will be charged during this year’s event.
“Vessel operators are free to come and go as they please depending on anchoring site availability while keeping clear of the shipping channel which will continue to be a working harbour.
“Access to the foreshore will once again be available via dinghy at Queens Wharf, which is located close to but outside the race precinct and admission fees to the event will apply.”