The hugely anticipated landmark 30th anniversary TARGA Tasmania is hours away from a start.

From midday the big field of just under 500 machines will be waved away from the ceremonial start at Launceston’s Grand Chancellor hotel.

From there the opening competition stage, Hillwood (3.57km), will see the first comp cars scheduled to start from 1.28pm with the first comp cars due for the George Town (4.80km) stage at 1.56pm.

Hillwood and George Town will mark the only two stages on the opening day with six stages set for tomorrow.

Stay tuned for all the latest here on TARGA Live.