MotoGP received a wet welcome at Phillip Island after two years away from Australia as heavy rain flooded the Grand Prix Circuit on Thursday.

With further heavy downpours expected overnight, the forecast remains mixed for the weekend as round 18 prepares to tackle the infamous island venue for the first time since 2019.

While rain is expected across Friday practice, Saturday and Sunday look slightly more favourable, at least for now, although the Victoria weather is renowned for throwing up four seasons in one day with little warning.

The MotoGP paddock was also presented with a warmer greeting as riders, including home hero Remy Gardner and Britain’s Sam Lowes, had the chance to meet some ‘locals’.

A koala, snake, blue tongue lizard and dingo were among the wildlife on show at the circuit ahead of the Animoca Brands Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix while Ducati’s Jack Miller led a 250-strong parade of bike fans from San Remo to the track on Wednesday.