Australia’s country music capital, Tamworth, will host the inaugural National Thunder Motorcycle Rally in October 2021 based on the successful 2015 National HOG Rally, but open to all “breeds” of motorcycle.

The rally was planned for last year, but was postponed because of the pandemic lockdown.

Now, the rally is back on and registrations are open for the event held across the October long weekend from Friday 1 to Monday 4 October.

The rally will include bikes, music, food and entertainment and is open to individual riders, club members and organised groups representing all motorcycle manufacturer brands, says Barry Harley, National Thunder Event Manager.

“We’re really excited for Tamworth to provide the opportunity for riders to get back on their bikes and onto the road after a difficult year,” he says.

The event will feature live music on the Thunder Stage reliving the sights and sounds of the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s, a National Thunder Horse Spectacular, trade sites, food stalls and licensed bars.

A motorbike parade through the streets and surrounds called the National Thunder Rally Run will close out the event.

“Regardless of what club or brand you’re aligned with, National Thunder is about getting back out there with mates, sharing the passion of the motorcycle community and putting on a great show,” Barry says.

“To add to the excitement of our inaugural event, we’re thrilled to announce that the New South Wales Harley Davidson Owners Group (HOG) have indicated that they intend to hold their State Rally in conjunction with the National Thunder Rally.”

HOG Regional Director (NSW/ACT) Ken McDonald says the merger had been considered for some time.

“Harley Davidson enthusiasts and HOG Chapters are set to flock to Tamworth from all corners of the State to take part in one of the most anticipated events of our riding calendar. Riders will enjoy a phenomenal line-up of entertainment, Chapter challenges and guided rides,” Ken says.

Riders will again take over the Australian Equestrian and Livestock Events Centre (AELEC) which was the successful venue for the 2015 national HOG rally.

“Its sheer size means it’s the perfect space to offer up unforgettable entertainment whilst ensuring there’s plenty of room for patrons on-site as they move between scheduled offerings,” Ken says.

“Our HOG members had a blast in 2015 and we can’t wait to come back to AELEC for another memorable rally.” 

There will also be guided rides throughout the Tamworth region including Nundle, Bendemeer, Barraba and Manilla.

Registration is now open at $149, and includes rally merchandise, access to all rides and entertainment across the weekend, and an entry into the Rally Raffle supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern NSW. 

Glamping and BYO camping options are available on-site.

Event organisers are planning for a COVID Safe event, and will continue to monitor State and Federal Government recommendations and regulations.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com