What is Locktoberfest?

Locktoberfest runs across three days, usually kicking off Friday evening and finishing Sunday afternoon. Okay, we do break to sleep. But in between that, it’s all about track time.

We use the dedicated drift circuit at The Bend, with plenty of fast, technical layout options, plus the nearby Skidpan set up in our dry Meihan-replica layout.

Driver numbers are capped to protect track time, so entries can sell out very quickly.

Driver Groups

BEGINNER
Still learning the basics. Skidpan only. No cage required. Locktoberfest is not recommended as your first ever drift event.

INTERMEDIATE
Reasonable drift control and able to stay within track limits most of the time. No cage required… can even tandem without a cage as the speeds are lower and the layout is away from walls.

EXPERIENCED
More experienced drivers comfortable with higher-speed drifting and tandems. Cage and harnesses required.

ADVANCED
High-speed, L1 competition-level drivers. Cage and harnesses required.

The Bend Main Track is narrower and more technical than Mallala or a skidpan, with less room to recover from mistakes. Beginner drivers are not permitted on the Main Track.

I want to know more the event

Once we have confirmed details, we publish them on the event entry system page. See here. Detailed Driver Information is also sent to entrants before the event and includes the final schedule, sign-on information and everything else you need to know before arriving.

Can I camp at the track?

No camping is permitted within the track itself, but the track is part of a complex with the BIG4 The Bend Holiday Park and Rydges Pit Lane Hotel.

Drift cars can remain at the track overnight during the event.

Entries

Locktoberfest is sold as a full-event entry. Single-day driver entries are not available.

Entries generally open in late September, with Drifting SA members receiving early access.

Pricing is set each year but is typically around $500 for the weekend.

Locktoberfest is one of our most popular events and can sell out very quickly. Once capacity is reached, additional entries cannot be added.

Pits

The pits aren’t huge at the Bend, so we have a pit booking system to ensure everyone gets dedicated space to set up.

Depending on availability, options may include carports and long pit spaces (where you can leave your trailer attached to your tow car) or wide pit bays (where you can have your tow car next to your drift car).

Pit booking information is provided to confirmed entrants.

Spectators are able to access the pits.

Passengers and spectators

Passengers must be 14 years or older and complete the required sign-on before going on track.

Spectators are welcome throughout the weekend.

Current ticketing, gate times and event information are published in the lead-up to each event.

What license do I need?

A RACERS Clubman Licence is required to drive at Locktoberfest.

Motorsport Australia and AASA licences are not accepted for Drifting SA events run under RACERS.

What does my car need?

All vehicles and safety equipment must meet Drifting SA requirements.

Beginner and Intermediate vehicles do not require a cage.

Experienced and Advanced drivers require the appropriate cage and harnesses.

View vehicle requirements here

What happens if Locktoberfest sells out?

Once driver capacity is reached, we cannot simply add more entries. We open a waitlist and then as we look as group as group sizes, shared cars, or people cancel due to change of plans/car breakages, we contact people on the waitlist.