2011 Formula 1 Qantas Australian Grand Prix

Editorial

If the Melbourne Cup is the race that stops a nation, then the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix is the race that divides a city.

The controversial race, poached by (then) Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett from South Australia in 1993, has been held in suburban Albert Park every year since 1996, attracting loyal crowds and angry protesters in equal measure; though recent years have seen crowd numbers dwindling even as the costs of the event rise.

In 2010, crowds bounced back, though attendances have never topped the record set by the first Grand Prix in 1996, and costs continue to rise, with the race costing taxpayers some $50 million (compared to $1.7 million in 1996).

It's a big budget and big name event, and this year's Formula 1 Qantas Australian Grand Prix will see the world's best drivers competing on-track, including two local heroes. Mark Webber will be joined on Friday by Daniel Ricciardo, as the young West Australian gets his Formula 1 opening as third driver for Scuderia Toro Rosso at every race.

Off-track, the entertainment includes two days of high-octane trackside tunes and fast-lane festival action, featuring performances from bands such as Birds of Tokyo, Little Red, and Yacht Club DJs.

Love it or hate it, there's no denying that the Grand Prix is big news, though whether it's here to stay is another story entirely…

Richard Watts, Citysearch

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