Grand Prix reaches fever pitch

Excitement is building across the city as the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix enters its second day, with the event on track to surpass last year’s record crowd of more than 452,000 fans.

Enthusiasm for the Grand Prix has reached fever pitch in recent weeks as it marks the first time Jack Doohan, son of motorsport legend Mick Doohan, will start the race alongside two-time winner and home-grown star Oscar Piastri.

Fans and families have been able to enjoy the excitement of the Grand Prix since Wednesday, with the free family-friendly Fan Festival opening at Melbourne Park Oval, and the Crown Lakeside Festival, featuring performances from local artists Tones and I, Baker Boy, Anna Lunoe and Spiderbait, plus international superstar DJ Fatboy Slim kicking off on Friday evening

With fun for F1 fans of all ages, the Fan Festival has featured appearances from sport stars, opportunities to get up close with an F1® show car, driver Q and A sessions, plus all the action straight from the track on the big screen.

Secured in Melbourne until 2037, the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix is a significant economic driver for Victoria and is one of the largest international sporting events in the southern hemisphere.

As of Monday, tourism research company STR's forward bookings show hotel occupancy at 94% for the Grand Prix’s Saturday night – 15% higher than the same time last year.

The Grand Prix delivers a buzz like no other, right across the state – filling hotels, restaurants and bars, while backing local jobs and businesses. With proven economic benefits, it is a major driver in Victoria’s enviable calendar of major events generating more than $3.3 billion in economic value each year.