Spills, Thrills & Wheel Spins

A Wet Day at Queensland Raceway

There’s nothing quite like the sound of high-performance engines screaming through the rain — and that’s exactly what I experienced at the Shannons Speed Series at Queensland Raceway. Located in Ipswich, about 50 minutes from Brisbane, this track — affectionately dubbed “the Paperclip” — offered a full day of on-the-edge racing, unpredictable weather, and behind-the-scenes access that any motorsport fan would envy.

Despite the wet weather, the action never stopped. Practice and qualifying sessions saw drivers pushing their machines to the absolute limit — some with spectacular results. Skids, slides, and the occasional spin-out kept the crowd on edge. It’s days like these that drivers earn their money.

Between the rain showers, I took the chance to explore the wheelchair-accessible viewing platform. Perched on a raised mound with a smooth concrete path, with a shade cloth over the top, it offers an impressive vantage point of almost the entire circuit — putting you right in the heart of the action. Just nearby is a conveniently located accessible toilet, and during bigger events, the bustling merchandise alley is close at hand too. The area also offers great views of the pit exit, practice start zone, and where you’ll spot the Medical and Safety Cars staged and ready. There’s non-stop action throughout the day with inclusive views for everyone — so don’t forget your earplugs!

Parking was a breeze — close and convenient — making the short walk to the paddock behind the pits easy. Here, you’re right in the middle of the action. I watched as drivers and mechanics fine-tuned their race cars with intense precision. There’s a thrill in seeing just how much effort goes into every detail.

One of the highlights of the day was getting access to the control tower. With views from both level one and two, it’s an ideal spot to catch the start/finish line and stay sheltered from the rain. Level one also features an accessible toilet, and the viewing area offers excellent coverage from the weather.

Walking through the Support Paddock, I got to see pit crews practising tire changes and drivers preparing for their next session. Accessible facilities are available at the far end of the paddock area, making the whole area friendly for look at the Support Paddock.

The best part? The drivers were incredibly welcoming, happy to chat and share insights into their world. From million-dollar machines to grassroots racers, the passion was everywhere.

If you’re a motorsport fan — or just looking for an unforgettable day out — do yourself a favour and head to Queensland Raceway. Bring your camera, your earplugs, and maybe a raincoat... and prepare for a day full of spills, thrills, and raw speed.