Casey Stoner will make a popular return to Phillip Island as part of a parade lap with fellow Aussie legends. Image: MotoGP.com.

Six-time Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix winner Casey Stoner will return to Phillip Island for this year’s event.

The Australian Grand Prix Corporation have announced the retired racer will appear alongside fellow Aussie world champions Wayne Gardner and Mick Doohan in a lap of honour for fans.

Stoner, Gardner and Doohan are perhaps the country’s most widely-known names, and each have a section of the 4.445 kilometre circuit commemorated in their name.

For Stoner, the opportunity to return and soak up the atmosphere was one he couldn’t pass up.

“The 2012 Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix was a fairytale ending to my MotoGP career,” said Stoner.

“It will be nice to take to the track with Mick and Wayne this year without the pressure of competing. I look forward to enjoying it and mixing with the fans that have supported me throughout my career.”

Prior to his retirement, Stoner had reached the fourth rung on the all-time premier motorcycling class winner’s list, his 38 GP victories placing him only below Valentino Rossi, Giacomo Agostini and Doohan.

The Aussie trio will complete their parade lap as a precursor to the grand prix which celebrates a milestone 25th year in 2013.

Both Gardner and Doohan are looking forward to the occasion.

“As far as Grand Prix victories are concerned, this is where it all began for me,” said Gardner. “It’s going to be a very special occasion.

“It’s always a great pleasure to ride the Phillip Island Circuit. I have enjoyed many special moments there and riding with Casey and Mick will certainly add to this list.”‘

Doohan, who maintains an active involvement in the sport the world over, hoped to see strong crowds at the event to welcome in what was a new era for MotoGP.

“Casey’s return to Phillip Island is big news for MotoGP fans. The crowd will undoubtedly love it and I look forward to playing my part,” said Doohan.

“MotoGP is enjoying great success around the world at the moment with the next generation of legends emerging.

“We are witnessing a new era for the sport and I encourage fans to make the trip to Phillip Island next month for what promises to be a great event.”