Australian GP was my unlucky race, not any more: Hulkenberg

With two retirements and one Did Not Start (DNS) in his first three Australian Grands Prix, the 5.3 Albert Park circuit was an unlucky track for Formula 1 racer Nico Hulkenberg but the German believes that has changed now.

Hulkenberg had finished a credible sixth and seventh in the last two years here to give himself a good start to the last two seasons.

"Melbourne used to be my unlucky track, but I scored points in 2014 and 2015, so I've broken the curse! I don't know of anybody in the paddock who doesn't enjoy this event," said the Force India driver.

"After the long winter you arrive in Melbourne and everybody is pumped and ready to get the season started. The weather is great, the city is cool and you get a lot of energy and positivity from the crowd and the buzz in the paddock."

Speaking about the street circuit, the 28-year-old said that to be quick here, one needs a well-settled car.

"To be quick at Albert Park you need a car that is well settled. It's about braking late, using the kerbs and being precise. Tyre degradation is usually high so the new tyre rules could open up some different strategy options," said the German.

"The opening race of the season often throws up surprises: anything can happen and we need to put ourselves in a position to make the best of any opportunity that comes our way."