Former Series X3 NSW front-runner Emily Duggan will contest the remaining of this year's Toyota 86 Racing Series starting with Townsville.
The Sydneysider will drive for her own team in what represents her first regular tilt at national level.
Duggan as one previous start in the V8 Touring Car Series in 2016, amid a four-year stint in state level Excel racing.
“Since I decided I wanted to become a professional racing driver, my entire life has been geared around chasing the dream,” she said.
“After spending the last few years refining my craft at a state level, I recognised the need for national-level exposure and identified the Toyota 86 Series as the most logical option.
“The series meets all my requirements – it's professionally-run, has an outstanding amount of coverage as a Virgin Australia Supercars Championship support category, and being a one-make series means the results are determined by driver ability.
“Unlike many other drivers in the series, I didn't start my career in karting or Formula Ford and while that's not an excuse, it means I have to work harder because I'm several steps behind others who have learned race-craft from a very early age, as well as those who have already been racing in the 86 Series and have experience with the cars.
“I'm fully committed to learning and improving, and I'll be using all the resources available to push myself towards the front of the field.”
Local driver Madison Dunston, who regularly races in Aussie Racing Cars, will also join the field for her home round.
Liam McAdam leads the series ahead of Round 2 at the Watpac Townsville 400, with the Toyota 86s on track twice on Friday for practice.