Kiwi Supercars driver Scott McLaughlin will need to overcome the heat, tyre wear and the closest thing to a hoodoo he has faced at Townsville this weekend.
The impressive DJR Team Penske driver lies 10 points off the championship lead but will attempt to break his podium duck at the unique Reid Park circuit that combines parkland and street course landscape.
Despite succeeding at almost every circuit on the Supercars calendar, McLaughlin's returns in the Townsville heat are limited.
"I have had a pole there before but I have never had a podium there so hopefully we can sort this out this weekend," the 24-year-old told Radio Sport.
"It is pretty warm up here but it is great to get out of the winter down in Melbourne and I will enjoy it while I can. It is definitely hotter. It is always a good event."