Now in its third year, the event is expected to draw a crowd of 8000 people to the Cessnock CBD on Sunday, October 30.

The race through the TAFE grounds and surrounding streets is organised by Cessnock Motorcycle Club and community volunteers.

Up to 60 teams – including two-time champions Marty McNamara and Luke Richards – will compete for the Damien Wallace Perpetual Trophy.

The trophy has been named in honour of Damien Wallace, a dedicated committee member who passed away in June.

Heats will be held on the Sunday morning and early afternoon followed by the two-hour grand prix.

The day will also feature amusements, markets, entertainment and will conclude with a presentation at Peden’s Hotel that evening.

Event manager David Blake said the reason behind the Postie Bike Grand Prix was simple: “Cessnock needs more community events that bring people into the town to spend money within our community and see what our town has to offer,” he said.

Blake said support from local businesses and the Cessnock community in general was integral to the grand prix’s success.

Event sponsors and supporters attended the launch at Peden’s Hotel, where donations of $500 each were presented to the Cessnock District Rescue Squad and the Rural Fire Service from funds raised at last year’s grand prix.

Check out PHOTOS from last year’s event in the gallery below.

And here’s a video from this morning’s launch, via the Australian Postie Bike Grand Prix Facebook page.