Central Australia is gearing up for an action-packed long weekend as thousands are anticipated to take in one of the world’s toughest and most remote off-road challenges, the annual Tatts Finke Desert Race.

Celebrated as ‘Australia’s Greatest Desert Race,’ this event ranks among the largest annual sporting challenges in the Northern Territory. Motorsport enthusiasts from all over the country are set to converge on Finke, all vying for the prestigious title of ‘King of the Desert.’

This year’s race includes over 500 participants who are taking on the challenging 446-km route from Alice Springs to the remote community of Aputula (Finke).

More than 12,000 spectators are also expected to camp along the route.

Alice Springs will come alive as the race kicks off with the vibrant Finke Street Party in the CBD on Friday, June 6, hosted by the Alice Springs Town Council.

The two-day race will commence with the outbound leg on Sunday, June 8, followed by the return journey on Monday, June 9.

The event promises an impressive display of vehicles, featuring everything from championship motorcycles to some of the southern hemisphere’s largest Trophy Trucks.

Finke Desert Race Committee president Antony Yoffa said the event will attract thousands of visitors to Alice Springs and is expected to bring a vibrant atmosphere to the region as it prepares to welcome fans and participants alike.

“I congratulate all the volunteers who have agreed to help in this year’s event; their support is critical to the success of this iconic community event,” Mr Yoffa said.

“To all the lucky campers along the track, there is nothing like sitting around a campfire, waking to ice on your swag and then listening to the road of a trophy truck – stay safe and have a wonderful time.”

Last year, the event generated over $12 million for the Central Australian economy, greatly impacting local businesses and accommodation services while promoting adventure tourism, the government said.

The race also opens opportunities for Aboriginal-owned enterprises and community groups in and around Aputula, the government said.

For tickets, detailed course maps, and the full weekend program, visit the website.