Following on from the Eastern Creek round of the series, a 'rookie' practice session was held, allowing younger and newer drivers to gain additional testing laps.

Paul Radisich (HSV Dealer Team) was second fastest ahead of Jason Bargwanna (Rod Nash Racing).

Jamie Whincup slammed home pole position in the final moments of qualifying, some four-tenths clear of the field.

Fabian Coulthard had a best ever qualifying result to be fifth fastest with Russell Ingall also well up in sixth, 19 grid spots ahead of his teammate.

Handling issues slowed the Holden Racing Team, both Garth Tander and Mark Skaife missing the cut for the top ten.

Rick Kelly had lurid 160 km/h spin in the Esses without hitting the walls or the cars in close company, only losing three spots.