Full-on, crazy and "Gold Coast on steroids" - that's how star Supercars drivers have described the brand-new Newcastle street circuit for the final championship round.
The inaugural Newcastle 500 shapes as an epic battle between Jamie Whincup and Scott McLaughlin, with the Australian holding a 30-point advantage in the title race ahead of Saturday's first 250km race.
Both Whincup's Commodore and the Falcon of New Zealand's McLaughlin emerged from Friday's practice sessions with bumps and bruises.
"It's a lot bumpier than expected - a lot of grip," Whincup said.
"It's just a short little crazy street circuit - Gold Coast on steroids in a way!