Now in its 49^th year, the drive up Mount Porcupine has grown into one of the premier motorsport events not just in this region, but country NSW.

An entry list of 50 cars will tackle this year’s event, hailing from as far away as the Gold Coast, Canberra, Kempsey, Newcastle and Mudgee, in addition to a strong local contingent.

Such was the popularity, the event has been over subscribed, meaning a number of drivers have been placed on a reserve list.

A more settled and wider road surface than last year, where drivers also experienced record times, will allow for higher horsepower cars and even quicker times.

Gunnedah’s leading contenders will be Darryl Morrison, Wayne Grosser and young gun Brock Casey.

Casey finished second in his junior division at Bathurst driving his Commodore ute but should he choose otherwise, also has access to a Nissan Skyline to race.

Among the visiting contingent are defending champion Doug Barry, back driving his head-turning, open-wheeled Reynard.

Another competitor to look out for is Scott Simmonds.

Simmonds is coming off the first win of his career during the Tri-Series at Kempsey last weekend.

He lines-up in the Improved Production class and will attract attention in his orange and black Ford Falcon, sporting 888, the number of his favourite driver Craig Lowndes.

“I’ve been a fan of Lowndesy since way back in 1996,” Simmonds said.

Simmonds is hoping like Tim Slade in the V8 Supercars at Winton last year, his first success can be quickly followed by a second.

“Hopefully now I’ve broken through for a win, I can keep it going,” he said.

Cars of every style will contest the race, including a new electric vehicle class consisting of a Toyota Prius.

Spectators are also catered for as a bus will run between the start, finish line and hill climb vantage points.

Scrutineering starts early morning on Sunday.

Competition is expected to get underway about 9.30am.

The Hill Climb is the climax of the popular Gunnedah Weeks of Speed Festival, which has been an extravaganza of different sports staged in town during the month of March.