History 1970s

1978 Southern Cross Rally (Australia)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Event Name: 1978 Southern Cross Rally

Date: October 14–18, 1978

Host Country: Australia

Surface: Gravel

FIA Cup Status: Round of the 1978 FIA Cup for Drivers

Total Distance: ~2,800 km

Total Starters: Approx. 60 crews

Total Finishers: N/A

The 1978 Southern Cross Rally was a staple of the international rally scene, drawing global competitors to Australia’s demanding gravel roads. Based around Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour, the event featured rough forest trails, creek crossings, and dramatic elevation changes. George Fury and Monty Suffern delivered a commanding performance in their Datsun Stanza, using local knowledge and steady pace to secure a major victory and valuable FIA Cup points.

Route

New England Forests: Rough gravel, tight hairpins, and narrow bridges demanded precision and durability.
Mid-North Coast Trails: Fast-flowing sections with open corners and undulating crests.
Night Loops: Navigation in kangaroo country added difficulty and fatigue in already long stages.

The rally traveled through the Great Dividing Range in New South Wales, with stages held on logging tracks and remote bush roads known for their technicality and changing conditions.

Weather was largely dry, but dust clouds reduced visibility during the daytime, and nighttime chill challenged both crews and equipment deep in the forests.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner
George Fury & Monty Suffern · Datsun Stanza
2nd Place
Ross Dunkerton & Jeff Beaumont · Datsun 710 Coupe
3rd Place
Greg Carr & Fred Gocentas · Ford Escort RS2000

Fury’s deep knowledge of Australian stages and the Datsun’s reliability gave the local duo a strong edge, helping them fend off fierce competition and international entrants.

Navigation & Challenges

  • Wildlife Risks: Kangaroos and livestock posed sudden hazards in both day and night stages.
  • Dust and Visibility: Dry stages created lingering dust clouds that severely impacted following cars.
  • Rough Terrain: Rocks, washouts, and tree roots placed extreme stress on suspension and tires.

The 1978 Southern Cross Rally proved a rally of attrition and adaptability—Fury’s win solidified his status among Australia’s elite while influencing the FIA Cup leaderboard internationally.

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