1994 Cannonball Run

In May 1994, more than 110 of the world’s fastest road cars arrived in Darwin for what was promoted as the first legal no-speed-limit Cannonball Run. Today, the innovative but ill-fated Northern Territory event is attracting growing interest amongst nostalgic muscle car fans, particularly in event memorabilia and tracking down the numerous muscle cars that took part. Pics: Steve Strike

Story: James Cockington

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Pedal to the metal

Named after a series of Hollywood movies, Australia’s own version gave competitors the chance to drive flat-out on the remote Stuart Highway, which was back then the only stretch of bitumen in Australia without a speed limit. The northern section of the road, built during WWII for convoys of military trucks, had been resurfaced in 1987.

The organisers managed to attract support from Northen Territory chief minister Marshall Perron, himself a ‘revhead’ who agreed to lead the parade of cars through the streets of Darwin in his own hot rod.

A few professional drivers were recruited, including Gregg Hansford in a VN Group A Commodore and Sir Jack Brabham, who was entered in a V12 Jaguar XJS but didn’t end up competing due to clashing commitments.