Michael Terminello went to the 2015 Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne last weekend, here’s his report.
The 2015 Rolex Australian Grand Prix was not only a special one for me as it was my 25th birthday that week; it was also the 20th Grand Prix Melbourne has hosted since leaving my home city of Adelaide in 1995 and the 30th Australian Grand Prix as part of the FIA Formula One World Championship. This was my sixth Australian Grand Prix. I went to two in Adelaide (1992, 1995) then started watching the Melbourne race on TV when it moved there in 1996.
The event slowly started to grow on me, even though at the time I was a little bitter that it left Adelaide! My first trip to Melbourne for the race was in 2011, and having been four times now, I am not bitter that it left at all. Albert Park holds a special place in my heart and the organization of the event is a class above. My passion and love for Ferrari and Formula One began from a very early age, now it’s enormous!
Scuderia Ferrari Club
I had another good reason for coming along this week. My friend Anthony Hvala has recently established the first official Scuderia Ferrari Club in Australia, and he had his official plaque signed at the weekend by Ferrari driver’s Sebastian Vettel (see picture above) and Kimi Raikkonen. Give them a like on their Facebook page at Scuderia Ferrari Club Melbourne and or send them an email to become a member and get a lot closer to the team!
5-star city & circuit
My trip was for five nights and six days; we stayed at the Waterfront Apartments on the South Wharf which was right near Spencer Street, so it was easy to head down to the track and to get around the city.
My general impressions of the city and circuit itself are definitely five star. The circuit looks absolutely spectacular with the Albert Park Lake as a backdrop. It’s easy to navigate your way around, and if you aren’t sure go to an information desk or look at the track map. The city comes to life during Grand Prix week and there is so much going on; the nightlife is fantastic with a lot of pubs, clubs and restaurants to choose from. The city and circuit is easy to get to by tram, taxi, train or bus.
Trackside
I sat in the Fangio Stand on the main straight for the full four days; the tickets cost $450 AUD with Gold Advantage membership, and I bought it well in advance. There were plenty of support categories and demonstrations including V8 Supercars, Porsche Carrera Cup, Heritage Touring Cars, Ultimate Speed Comparison, Shannon’s Historic Demonstration and the Ferrari Parade. There were lots of activities to do at the track including simulators, Pirelli’s Pit Stop Challenge, segway races, concerts, car displays etc. Food and drink stands were everywhere and a lot of seating including shaded areas if you needed a break.
Would you recommend a trip to the Australian Grand Prix?
Absolutely! The Australian Grand Prix is a must go to race for any Formula One fan. The build up to the start of the season fills you with a rush of adrenaline to go to Melbourne and see the action for yourself. I wouldn’t do anything differently when I go again.
Any tips for fellow fans?
Be sure you keep hydrated, put on loads of sunscreen, wear a cap and bring a raincoat as you can experience four seasons in a day in Melbourne. If you want an autograph or photo, head down to the track and gates early and run as fast as you can to the autograph area outside the paddock.
Spot on there Michele…. We’ll see you next year too !!