The series, one of the curtain-raisers for the inaugural Coates Hire Newcastle 500 Supercars event, also features some of the best drivers in the country.

And, Rinkin is excited to face them on “home” turf.

“I’m really looking forward to it,” he said.

“Our category [Aussie Racing Cars] is the first one on the track, too.

“Practice begins on Friday from 8.40am, followed by a qualifier.

“Then we race rounds on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

“It will definitely be a challenge – it’s not only a street circuit, but no-one’s been on it before.”

The Rinkin Motorsport Team is well-placed to make its mark over the three-day program.

James Duckworth’s My105.com Muswellbrook Cinema Camaro sits in second spot while Rinkin’s Muswellbrook Nissan and Muswellbrook Financial Services Camaro occupies third position in the Gold Cup.

The outfit, itself, lays third in the teams’ championship as well.

“James is the defending national titleholder and only trails by one point,” Rinkin said.

“But, I think he’ll win.

“He’s a talented driver.

“As for myself, I’m hoping to finish in the top half of the field.

“Unfortunately, I missed a round, which saw me drop a few spots.

“There are several professional drivers in our division, such as Kel Treseder, so it’s good to test yourself against the likes of them.”

Rinkin has nothing but commendation for the organisers of the Coates Hire Newcastle 500.

“It’s the best thing in the world for the town,” he said.

“We actually reserved our accommodation over there last October.

“From Stockton to Swansea, as well as Cessnock and Maitland, everywhere is booked out.

“It’s certainly a major windfall for Newcastle – and there’ll be a flow-on up here in the Upper Hunter.

“Some teams are staying overnight at Muswellbrook in the lead-up to the event.”