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Wilberforce — From the dusty paddocks of the Hawkesbury to the rugged terrain of East Africa, 36-year-old amateur rally driver and mechanic Timothy Wilkins is preparing to take on the challenge of a lifetime - the legendary East African Safari Classic Rally.
Together with his father, Stewart Wilkins of Pitt Town, Tim has spent the past 18 months meticulously building a 1973 Datsun 240Z rally car in their home garage — a vehicle designed specifically to endure what’s known as the toughest classic rally on earth.
“We’ve built a Datsun 240Z rally car in the Hawkesbury for the East African Safari Classic Rally,” Tim told the Gazette.
“It’s been a huge effort, but we’re ready to take it on.”
The East African Safari Classic Rally traces its roots back to 1953, when it was first held to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. Originally a brutal endurance test through Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, the rally quickly earned a reputation as one of the world’s most prestigious and demanding motorsport events. Revived in 2003 as a dedicated event for pre-1978 vehicles, the modern iteration preserves the original spirit, drawing classic car enthusiasts and seasoned rally veterans from around the globe.
This year’s rally entrants - the East African runs in September - will cover 3500 kilometres over eight days, traversing some of Kenya’s most unforgiving terrain — a test of both machine and human endurance.
“Our team consists of nine Australians heading over to take on the challenge,” said Tim. “We’ve got a service crew, our own media team, co-driver, and a few family members coming along for the ride. It’s about more than just racing — it’s about the experience.”
The car, built under strict classic rally guidelines, is period-correct but enhanced with modern suspension and safety systems. Every nut and bolt was considered, and months of logistical planning — including shipping spares and gear to Kenya — has gone into the preparation.
For Tim, this journey has been over two decades in the making.
“I went to Kenya with my dad in 2003 when I was 15, and the event left a lasting impression,” he said. “It’s been in the back of my mind ever since.”
Rallying runs in the Wilkins family blood. Stewart has competed in long-distance international events including the London to Sydney Marathon and the Panama to Alaska Rally. Tim himself has a strong local track record, having competed in the NSW State Rally Championship for the past 12 years, including a runner-up finish in 2023 and two third-place titles.
“This event is very exciting,” he said. “We’ve been preparing mentally and physically, and we know it’s going to be a huge challenge. But we’ve put in the work, and now it’s time to take it on and enjoy the ride.”
Tim and the all-Australian team are flying the flag for the Hawkesbury — and proving that with grit, skill, and a family-built Datsun, even the world’s toughest rally can be within reach.
