MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA TO TAKE OFFICIATING TO NEXT LEVEL
Motorsport Australia has published a detailed Officials’ Working Group report, with the Board agreeing to accept and implement all 37 recommendations put forward.
SYDNEY NEXT UP FOR MOTORSPORT PROGRAM
The Women's Introduction to Motorsport program is expanding, with the addition of two exciting drive-day events. KEY MEDICAL TEAM CELEBRATES DOUBLE DECADES OF CARE
Recently celebrating their twentieth anniversary, Team Medical Australia has been a central component to motorsport in this country.
WALKINSHAW ANDRETTI UNITED TO DELIVER UNIQUE GOT EXPERIENCE
Aspiring young women with a passion for motorsport are invited to the next FIA Girls on Track Pathways event at Walkinshaw Andretti United’s workshop in August.
Cover photo by Speed Shots Photography
FROM THE CEO
Monthly message from Sunil Vohra, Motorsport Australia CEO
Welcome to the July 2024 edition
of Speed Read
We’ve been doing a lot within Motorsport Australia that relates to a topic I am passionate about – customer racing. The majority of racing in Australia is amateur racing where people fund their own participation at club, state or national level. I do this myself and understand the perspective of the everyday racer. We are customers when we enter events and go racing. We want a great experience, enjoy the exhilarating times motorsport can bring, all while being treated fairly and with respect. Motorsport Australia is working in this space to bring a fairness mindset into our structure, policies and processes.
A customer centric approach shapes many of our initiatives. The work of the Officials Working Group is one such example. The Group delivered 37 recommendations to the Motorsport Australia Board, highlighting key areas that will improve the experience for volunteers and participants. We have more than 10,000 officials and volunteers aligned with Motorsport Australia, we are excited about implementing these recommendations and seeing the positive impact they’ll have in our sport.
Internally, there some exciting developments in the works, the benefits of which will soon become more visible and result in an improved experience for all. You may have read of our new Sporting
& Technical Director, Lisa Crampton who starts with us shortly, and we will soon be announcing new roles with a focus on state level racing. We’re further investing in technology to improve the member experience, including our licencing system.
Part of my time this last month has been working through the details of our insurance program. People will know this has been an area of increased cost, amidst a hard insurance market globally. We have been working alongside broking and underwriting teams to provide the best cover possible, improve our risk profile, while minimising the impact to member’s hip-pockets. We have a clear plan and are using our extensive global insurance contacts to benefit the future of motorsport in Australia.
Lastly, I want to acknowledge the 20-year anniversary of Team Medical Australia. A wonderful group of doctors, nurses, paramedics and support staff who volunteer their time at race events all around the country. Long and enduring partners with Motorsport Australia, Team Medical Australia is a fantastic group whose skill and care allows us to go racing knowing we are in good hands. Motorsport Australia offers our heartfelt congratulations on this important milestone.
Go well, Sunil.
Photo: Revved Photography
Photo: CH Images
Best Price Credit
If
Save
Receipt
Proof
Discounted Fitment (In Store Only) Supercheap
MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA TO TAKE OFFICIATING TO NEXT LEVEL
Motorsport Australia has published a detailed Officials’ Working Group report, with the Board agreeing to accept and implement all 37 recommendations put forward.
Motorsport would struggle to function without the ongoing support of more than 10,000 licensed officials who are the lifeblood of delivering events week-in, week-out.
As part of the recommendations, Motorsport Australia will dedicate in-house resources to further enhance and improve all aspects of officiating, including:
• Providing better user experience for all officials through improved technology and digitising many of our existing processes
• Improved training to retain and develop officials at all levels of the sport
• Fostering a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for existing and new officials
• Development of structured pathways and opportunities to grow and retain officials
• Further support from Motorsport Australia to clubs and officiating groups, reducing the administration burden on volunteers
• Improved communications with officials
The Officials’ Working Group was chaired by Ed Ordynski and made up of both Motorsport Australia staff and industry stakeholders.
Photos:
Revved Photography
Photo: Photox
It surveyed a large number of officials currently active around the country, as well as those who had recently seen their licences lapse.
Motorsport Australia
President Andrew Fraser congratulated the Working Group on delivering a detailed and impressive set of recommendations.
“The Officials Working Group has done a stellar job in identifying what is required to improve all levels of officiating,” Fraser said.
the best officials in the world, so now the work must continue to allow us to maintain that strong reputation.
“The Board unanimously supported the implementation of all 37 recommendations presented to us and look forward to seeing these important initiatives delivered by our hard-working staff together with the officials themselves.”
We have the best officials in the world, so now the work must continue to allow us to maintain that strong reputation
“Meeting so many of our volunteer officials at events around the country has also reaffirmed my belief that we have
Motorsport Australia CEO Sunil Vohra said work on implementing the recommendations had already begun.
“Since receiving this report from the Officials’ Working Group, we have begun work on a detailed project plan that outlines the timing and
resources required to deliver these recommendations,” Vohra said.
“In 2024, we are already seeing an increase in the number of licensed officials which is something we cannot take for granted. Sports across Australia are seeing a decline in the number of volunteers, so for us to make sure that we see more officials in the sport we must continue to innovate.
“Our officials are our greatest asset and we know we need to provide all the support possible to make sure we retain and grow our highly regarded officials base across the country.”
A full list of the recommendations can be found at motorsport.org.au
Photo: Dakar Press Team Australia
Photo: Dirtcomp
Photo: CH Images
Photo: Revved Photography
Photo: Revved Photography
REGISTRATIONS OPEN FOR 2025 AGP OFFICIALS
Individuals eager to volunteer at next year’s Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix can now submit their applications.
More than 950 Motorsport Australia volunteer officials were part of this year’s event - from first-year flag and track marshals to highly experienced sector and fire marshals, there will be plenty of passionate individuals to help the event run smoothly.
Interested applicants have until Friday, 30 September to register as an official for the 2025 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix.
There are many perks to being a volunteer official – including having the best seat in the house to watch the racing action unfold, as well as the camaraderie within the Motorsport Australia volunteer official team being the two major factors.
All applicants must have a current Motorsport Australia Officials Licence at the time of application to be considered.
Become a Motorsport Australia Official via the Motorsport Australia Member Portal.
The 2025 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix will take place in Albert Park in Melbourne on 13-16 March.
Visit motorsport.org.au to apply to be a volunteer Race Official at the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix 2025
WHEN IT WON’T BUFF OUT...
ColorSpec is an Australian made, professional grade, refinish paint system. We have 100,000+ automotive factory paint colours available to be mixed in store at any Supercheap Auto in Australia.
Our three step process is ideal for DIYers through to pro body shops and available in both aerosol and bulk tins.
learn more
KEY MEDICAL TEAM CELEBRATES DOUBLE DECADES OF CARE
To make a motorsport event happen, it takes a wide variety of volunteers of various roles and specialties. One critical role at events are the medical personnel. Often donning a green suit, our medical staff are key to keeping our sport safe.
Team Medical Australia has been at the forefront of medical services at tracks around Australia for over two decades. The nationwide operation is a thriving group of volunteers made up of highly trained and capable people.
Recently celebrating their twentieth anniversary, Team Medical Australia has been a central component at many Australian events, including the Australian Grand Prix, the Supercars Championship, Shannons SpeedSeries, and a host of state and club gatherings.
Peter Castledine, Founder and Team Coordinator at Team Medical Australia, explained that it’s a tough but rewarding role.
“The reality is people don’t need us until it goes bad,” Castledine said.
“We’ve had some really good outcomes for people. That’s a massive reward for our volunteers.
“There’s lots of things that go on in the background that people don’t see, it’s not just the on-track crashes. It’s the people behind-the-scenes that also benefit.”
We’ve had some really good outcomes for people. That’s a massive reward for our volunteers
“At a motorsport event there is an extra weight of expectation on the medical team to do something straight-away to make a difference. And that’s why we do it.
“Our volunteers give their time because they love motorsport, but when they can do something to make a difference, it’s really important to them.
When it comes to roles, it’s not just doctors and paramedics that make up Team Medical Australia.
“We have drivers, doctors, nurses, paramedics and administration staff. We’re very highly skilled people with all the right equipment,” Castledine explained.
“We’ve got a really dedicated group of people. Just under one thousand members registered. A lot of people have been involved over our journey.”
The twentieth celebration, held in early July, was a well-attended affair that
Photos: Revved Photography
gave volunteers a time to revel in what Team Medical Australia has achieved.
Castledine, a Motorsport Australia Official of the Year in 2015, reflected on the journey that the medical team has been on.
“Our vision was to be a dedicated medical service to try and provide continuity of care from one event to the next.
“We got our first Supercars contract about 15 years ago. From the 6 Hour at
Phillip Island, the Moto-GP, even going across to Singapore to help in the setting up of the first Formula One. It’s all lead on from one thing to another.
“We are always looking at how we can improve things – different techniques, treatments or ways we go about extrications – it’s an evolving thing and we’re always learning from different events or from around the world.”
For most motorsport volunteers and participants, their contribution wouldn’t be possible without the support and encouragement from the families and friends at home.
“For people to give up that much time to volunteer, to be away from their families, it’s a massive thing for us,” Castledine said.
“A big thanks goes to members, who give up so much of their time. And for the families who let us go do this job that we love.”
out more about Team Medical Australia by visiting teammedical.org.au
Photo: Revved Photography
Photo: Revved Photography
Photo: Team Medical Australia
SYDNEY NEXT UP FOR MOTORSPORT PROGRAM
The Women's Introduction to Motorsport program is expanding, with the addition of two exciting drive-day events.
With August’s event in Queensland already confirmed, the program will head down the coast to Sydney Motorsport Park. To be held on the evening of Sunday 8 September from 5:30pm, the Sydney Motorsport Park lights will illuminate this special night-drive event.
Queensland will be first-up to host Women’s Introduction to Motorsport event, held at the RACQ Mobility Centre on 25 August. The Mount Cotton-based facility will include a morning and afternoon session, with the added bonus of a networking lunch for both of Sunday’s events.
Both the NSW and Queensland events will immerse participants in all-things motorsport, covering a range of topics, offering a variety of driving experiences and all within the comfort of their own road cars.
Open to women aged 16 years-old and above, attendees will learn about vehicle preparation and track safety, as well as discovering their innerrace driver as they tackle car-control exercises guided by experienced regulars within grassroots motorsport.
The Women's Introduction to Motorsport program has proved
successful since its inauguration, with the inaugural event in 2023 at METEC in Victorian name as a finalist for the ‘VicHealth Sport and Active Recreation Initiative of the Year’ category in the 2023 Victorian Sport Awards.
Registrations are open for both events - RACQ Mobility Centre Mount Cotton on Sunday 25 August, and Sydney Motorsport Park Sunday 8 September.
Photos:
Chantel Collins
RACE, RINSE, REPEAT
Meguiar’s now sponsoring 2024 Australian Production Car season.
WE SUPPORT MOTORSPORT.
FIA SAFETY ADVICE: PRE-RACE CHECKS
The FIA has released the following information, useful for all who compete in Motorsport. For the regulatory application of apparel requirements, under Motorsport Australia, ensure you familiarise yourself with the Motorsport Australia Manual; Technical Appendix – Schedule D Apparel.
View the Motorsport Australia Manual; Technical Appendix –Schedule D Apparel at motorsport.org.au
For drivers: Designed as a pre-race checklist, the check list guides drivers through essential safety checks to secure their safety and that of their crew before engaging in competition.
Download the Pre-Race Checks for Drivers
For scrutineers: The check list serves as a comprehensive memo outlining the essential competitor safety equipment checks before events. It highlights key features and expectations to ensure driver and crew safety.
Download the Pre-Race Checks for Scrutineers
AMAZING AVERY ALL-IN FOR TRIPLEHEADER
For his efforts at the recent South Australia motor race series, Shannons SpeedSeries and Supercars at Hidden Valley, Matt Avery has been awarded this month’s Supercheap Auto Superstar.
A regular volunteer for state and club events, Matt has been recognised by his peers as a dedicated and reliable individual, one who is always ready to help for however long the event requires.
During back-to-back events at The Bend this year Matt gave all his time, volunteering for all six
days over two weekends of track activity. He then attended the Supercars event in Darwin as an official the following weekend.
With The Bend promoting a busy calendar of events, there’s a high demand on local officials to fill the numbers. Thanks to dedicated people like Matt, events like these are able to happen.
To thank Matt for his many years of service, professionalism, and extensive knowledge, he will receive a $100 Supercheap Auto gift card, commemorative pin and certificate.
MATT AVERY
Do you know someone like Matt; a Motorsport Australia official who deserves to be recognised for going above and beyond their duty?
Nominate now and your friend could win a $100 Supercheap Auto gift card, commemorative pin, and certificate — with their story shared in Speed Read.
Submit your nomination to Speed Read
TEAM AUSTRALIA ESPORTS FINALISTS BATTLE FOR NATIONAL HONOURS
Twenty-four drivers are locked in for the 2024 Motorsport Australia MOZA Racing FIA Motorsport Games Esports Qualifier this August.
After a thorough selection process, twelve drivers were selected for the two iRacing and Assetto Corsa Competizione (ACC) groups. Ultimately, one driver for iRacing and ACC will secure their spot for Team Australia in the 2024 FIA Motorsport Games in Valencia, Spain.
Notable entrants include 2022 FIA Motorsport Games finalist and GT3 National Esports Cup winner Philippa Boquida, 2023 Queensland Esports State Champion Kody Deith, and 2023 F4 National Esports Cup winner Damon Woods.
Held in-person at Fortress Melbourne, the 2024 Motorsport Australia MOZA Racing FIA Motorsport Games Esports Qualifier will have the added atmosphere of a live crowd cheering on the 24 drivers.
Tickets are free to spectate, with limited spots available for the event on Friday 16 August from 5pm–9pm.
Secure your free tickets to spectate at Fortress Melbourne at esports. motorsport.org.au
ENTRY
ASSETTO CORSA COMPETIZIONE
Ryan Hoolihan
Joseph Morgan
Matthew Pignata
Zachary Smith
Mathew Simmons
James Allen
Jamie Coser
Paul Kandanoleon
Mitchell Hobbs
Mia Rose
Ethan Cale
Philippa Boquida IRACING
Jamie Christison
Marcello Rivera
Shawn McQuillen
Zach Rattray-White
Marino Morella
Connor Healy
Jake Burton
Calieb Hydes
Daniel Harris
Josh Purwien
Kody Deith
Damon Woods
2024 ESPORTS CALENDAR
UNLEASH YOUR INNER CHAMPION WITH MOZA RACING
Ready to elevate your sim racing experience? Moza Racing transforms virtual races into thrilling, immersive adventures.
With Moza Racing's cutting-edge racing simulation hardware, you'll feel every turn, acceleration, and heart-pounding moment as if you're in the driver’s seat of a real race car.
PRECISION AND PERFORMANCE
Every millisecond counts in racing. That’s why Moza Racing products are engineered for precision and performance.
Our direct drive wheelbases offer unparalleled force feedback, letting you feel the road surface and tire grip nuances. Paired with our premium racing wheels, designed for comfort and control, you’ll have the edge to dominate the track.
REALISM REDEFINED
Immerse yourself in hyper-realistic racing. Our pedals, featuring load cell technology, provide the most authentic braking feel, replicating real race car pressure and resistance.
Our expertly crafted shifters and handbrakes offer seamless gear changes and responsive control, enabling perfect drifts and flawless shifts.
COMPREHENSIVE PRODUCT RANGE
Moza Racing offers a wide range of products for both PC and console users.
From high-performance wheelbases and steering wheels to advanced pedal sets and handbrakes, our equipment meets the needs of all racing enthusiasts.
Our latest console-compatible products ensure everyone can enjoy Moza Racing's unparalleled realism and precision.
INNOVATION AND QUALITY
Moza Racing leads innovation in sim racing. Our state-of-the-art products withstand intense racing, ensuring durability and reliability.
We push technology boundaries to give you the ultimate racing experience.
COMMUNITY AND SUPPORT
Choosing Moza Racing means joining a passionate racing community. Our dedicated support team is always ready to assist, ensuring you get the most from your gear. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or just starting, Moza Racing is your partner on the road to victory. Experience racing thrills like never before. Elevate your sim racing with Moza Racing—where precision meets passion.
Visit the Moza Racing website today and start your journey to becoming the ultimate racing champion. Moza Racing products are available at Australian retailers of simulation gear.
For a list of Moza resellers in Oceania, please visit mozaracing.com/resellers
WALKINSHAW ANDRETTI UNITED TO DELIVER UNIQUE GIRLS ON TRACK EXPERIENCE
Aspiring young women with a passion for motorsport are invited to apply for the next FIA Girls on Track Pathways event at Walkinshaw Andretti United’s Supercars workshop on Thursday 29 August.
Supported by Supercheap Auto, this event promises an unparalleled opportunity for hands-on learning and an opportunity to further explore careers in motorsport.
Taking place at the Clayton workshop in Melbourne, the specifically designed Girls on Track event will provide participants with a unique look into the inner workings of the team, as well providing a further understanding of the career opportunities in motorsport.
The event will also include the opportunity to meet with senior members of the team as well as one of the Walkinshaw Andretti United Supercars drivers.
The day will include simulated race day scenarios, including practical sessions utilising HP laptops, made possible through Girls on Track's platinum partnership with HP.
There are limited places available for this event, with a selection process used to determine attendees, based on potential participants’ interest and commitment to motorsport.
Working with Motorsport Australia, Walkinshaw Andretti United will
select participants based around the following areas of interest:
• Mechanics
• Engineering
• Driving
• Commercial (including partnerships, marketing and content creation)
• Human performance (including physio and nutrition)
Applications will close on Tuesday 30 July.
Interested participants can apply at motorsport. org.au/girlsontrack
Revved Photography
Photo:
Photo: David McIntee
Photo: N Hughes
Unless you have four feet...
DETAILS EMERGE ON TASMANIAN FINALE
With this year’s Buckby Motors Rally Tasmania hosting the hotly anticipated final round of the Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship, new details have emerged about what’s in store for the event.
Taking place in the new location of Burnie on Tasmania’s north coast, locals will be given an insight into rallying with plenty of spectator opportunities both in the lead up to and during the event.
Thanks to the support of Burnie City Council, a big Friday night Rally Show will kick off proceedings in the heart of Burnie, with the cars and stars given the opportunity to meet and greet with fans from near and far converging on the city centre.
Pedders Rally Central will be set up close to the city centre throughout the event, near all the required amenities and with one of the most picturesque outlooks on the ARC calendar right next to Bass Strait.
On Saturday and Sunday, all attention will turn to the forests surrounding Burnie, with new stages to deliver a challenge for Australia’s best drivers as they battle it out for the Championship crown.
Sunday’s Galvaniize Insurance Power Stage will also be one of the most unique events on the ARC calendar in 2024, with an epic 42km final stage that could determine the Championship and Cup winners throughout the field with allimportant bonus points on offer.
Motorsport Australia General Manager Motorsport & Events
Adrian Coppin said the event was shaping up to provide a fitting finale for a bumper ARC season.
“Thanks to the hard work of all our event organisers, we’re in the middle of one of the most exciting
Photos:
DMAC Photography
Photo: Photox
and competitive ARC seasons in our recent history,” Coppin said.
“Buckby Motors Rally Tasmania will deliver the perfect final with 230km of competitive action across 14 stages, including something very different with the 42km Galvaniize Insurance Power Stage that we’re eager to see how it will unfold.
“With a new location, thanks to the support of the Burnie City Council, the event
will be fan focused, with some great spectator opportunities throughout the weekend, including at Pedders Rally Central.
The event will be fan focused, with some great spectator opportunities throughout the weekend
“For competitors, I can also confirm we will shortly offer a great shipping deal that will help with freight and logistics for those based on the mainland through Strait Link. Details will be sent to registered ARC competitors directly.
“We’re also going to continue with our newest tradition and include our 2024 Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship Awards evening on the Sunday night following the rally where we can celebrate the year that was and officially crown our winners.”
The 2024 Buckby Motors Rally Tasmania takes place on 22-24 November.
RACE SAFE
l Comprehensive range of FIA and Motorsport Australia approved fire safety products, meeting the requirements Schedule H of the Motorsport Manual
l Authorised agent for Lifeline Fire Systems
l Servicing and refills available at Box Hill (VIC) & Yatala (QLD) sites
l Contact our Racer Industries sales staff for expert advice on all your fire safety needs
Photos: DMAC Photography
RACING TOGETHER EXCELS IN DARWIN
Racing Together has experienced its most successful racing weekend to-date, topping the leaderboards in the Excel category at the Supercars Indigenous Round in Hidden Valley. The team was rewarded with not only their first race win but also the number one spot in all three Excel races over the three days at the Darwin circuit.
Winning driver, 16-yearold Kade Davey was thrilled with the weekend’s success.
“In addition to my first win in Excels, I was greatly inspired by the enthusiasm of the students we spoke to on Thursday and hope that our success within the team motivates them to seek a career in motorsport.”
I was greatly inspired by the enthusiasm of the students we spoke to on Thursday
“We had the opportunity to meet and compete with local competitors and to share our experiences with them,” Davey said.
Fellow Racing Together driver Karlai Warner also experienced a successful weekend on track, taking seventh, fifth and sixth places in the three races. Some fiercely fought battles on track had her progressively improving her lap times by better than three seconds per lap, despite fighting illness all weekend.
“We are hugely grateful to Northern Territory Major Events Company for assisting us in getting to this amazing event,” Warner said.
“We not only enjoyed the racing and the atmosphere at the track but also the opportunity to see some of the spectacular sights of Darwin.”
Off track, five teenagers made up the support crew. Chief Mechanic Locky and trainee-mechanics Lowetta, Sophie and Keenan from the Murri
School kept the cars performing at their best, with the fifth member Charlie heading up the team’s social media. NT Indigenous mechanical students Jai and Jennah were honorary team members for the event.
Supported by Motorsport Australia since it was first introduced into Australia, Racing Together has become a world-leading program designed to encourage young indigenous people to obtain the skills necessary to achieve a career in motorsport.
Find out more about Racing Together at racingtogether.org
As motorsport insurance specialists, our team have both the skills and experience to identify and address risks that are uniquely associated with motorsport.
Our Race Track Whole Packages combines cover for several key risks including Motorsport Liability, Management Liability, Property (with or without track cover), Mobile Machinery, Commercial Motor, Personal Accident so that you can face what’s around the bend with confidence. Confidence
Find out more.
Get in touch with the Gallagher team.
sport@ajg.com.au
Terry Berryman 07 3367 5010
sport.ajg.com.au
WATERS AND PAYNE TOP DOGS IN TOWNSVILLE EPIC
The NTI Townsville 500 saw an actionpacked June weekend of racing, culminating in some of the best Supercars races of the 2024 season.
Saturday saw Monster Castrol Racing Cameron Waters edge out Mobil 1 Optus Racing’s Chaz Mostert after a see-saw battle lasting an epic 88 laps of racing, with late rainfall adding to the drama.
There were close fights throughout the race and some impressive runs through the field, including an impressive drive from Red Bull Ampol Racing’s Will Brown – who finished third and kept his Championship lead at the top of the standings. Waters, meanwhile, was understandably thrilled to be on the top step in front of a strong northern Queensland crowd.
“That was an awesome race, I had so many cool battles through the race,” Waters said post-race.
“Chazzie (Mostert) was probably quicker at the start of the stints and I was probably quicker at the end of the stints, and we had some epic battles out there, it was a lot of fun.
That was an awesome race, I had so many cool battles through the race
“My car was absolutely amazing on it's tyres so a massive thank you to all the boys and girls at Tickford for wheeling me out a fast car.”
Despite setting a high-bar on Saturday, Sunday's track action did not disappoint.
The second 88-lap race of the weekend saw a new contender emerge, with Matt Payne of Penrite Racing cruising home to victory at the Reid Park street circuit.
The New Zealander made the decision to stop three times in the 88-lap race, with the strategy proving to be a race-winning one, resulting in Payne's second Supercars race win of his career.
Photos: EDGE Photographics
Payne was thrilled with the victory.
“Awesome, unbelievable,” Payne said post-race.
“We’ve had a tough couple of rounds lately. I knew we had a good race car yesterday with that final stint pace – it was really strong.
“So to put it all together today and try and replicate that with a different strategy from the team which was absolutely wicked.
“There was no backing off, we were pushing the whole way.”
The race result would also be a significant one for the Championship standings. Current leader Will Brown slumped to a last-place finish after early contact on lap one saw him suffer damage that would ultimately slow him, but doing enough to finish the race and claim some limited points.
Brown’s Championship lead remains in place, but his Red Bull Ampol Racing teammate Broc Feeney closed the gap to just 78 points after 14 races.
It’s a short turnaround for the Supercars fraternity, with the drivers and crews returning to action for the Sydney SuperNight at Sydney Motorsport Park on 19-21 July.
REPCO SUPERCARS CHAMPIONSHIP TOP 10
1. Will Brown – 1515 points
2. Broc Feeney - 1437
3. Chaz Mostert - 1341
4. Cameron Waters - 1126
5. Matthew Payne - 1065
6. James Golding - 980
7. Will Davison - 972
8. Jack Le Brocq - 967
9. Nick Percat - 942
10. Thomas Randle - 940
Photos: EDGE Photographics
REVIVING HISTORY: BILL PEARSON’S TRIBUTE TO AUSTRALIA’S LOST RACE TRACKS
Long-time photographer Bill Pearson has launched a new project aimed at preserving Australia’s forgotten racetracks through film.
Pearson thought he was done with motorsport after publishing “Birthplaces of Australian Motor Racing – the history of 150 defunct car racing venues,” but he decided to embark on a mission to document these tracks on video before they are gone forever.
This project began in 2023 after he attended the annual Gnoo Blas Classic, capturing the track with his camera. Later on, Pearson replicated the same exercise at the Forty Bends Hillclimb and Catalina Park in Katoomba.
“I have restored over eighteen films now, most of whose locations I have also visited. I love matching my camera angles to old still photos from ‘back in the day’, and slowly dissolving to show these corners in their present condition,” Bill said.
I have a passion to enhance and restore these films, preserving our nation’s motor racing heritage – one movie at a time.
The footage collected proved to be enough to understand that those deteriorated tracks – like many others –had stories waiting to be told. Drawing on his background as a film and sound editor he will bring these films to life.
“This is only possible thanks to today’s home video editing software and is getting easier as I have now assembled a pretty good sound effects library of my own. I also crop, sharpen and re-edit the vision.
“I have a unique skill set and the passion to enhance and restore these films, preserving our nation’s motor racing heritage – one movie at a time.”
Through his career, Pearson has worked at multiple motorsport events and even raced at some. Currently he has taken his career to online platforms by sharing his video content on YouTube.
His upcoming release will feature the 1955 Australian Grand Prix at Port
Wakefield, won by Sir Jack Brabham in his self-built Cooper T40. The film is set to compare the location as it was then to how it appears today.
“I upload them to my “Bill’s Build & Race” YouTube channel, when they can be found grouped together in my “Visiting Birthplaces” playlist,” Bill explains.
“The feedback I am getting amazes me, from those who were at those historic races, or actually competing in them. The best one was, ‘Thank you so much. I just got to see my grandfather racing!’ Some of these places I photographed for magazines, and others I raced at myself.”
Check out Bill’s Build & Race YouTube channel
BONNICI SECURES VICTORY FOR THE IPSWICH SEASON OPENER
Anthony Bonnici has pulled off a brilliant victory in the Ipswich West Moreton Auto Club’s first dirt sprint of the 2024 season, claiming the win during the final run of the day in his Mitsubishi Evo 8.
With previous autocross events having to be cancelled due to poor weather conditions, the Queensland club was thrilled to finally get the season underway. The Ipswich West Moreton Auto Club event was a testament to the resilience and enthusiasm of the IWMAC community.
As the day wore on, the 36 drivers continued to deliver a day filled with high-speed excitement and constantly improving on their lap times. Organisers and participants were excited to see the first round come to life.
Bonnici and Tracey Bavinton put on a show as they continued the rivalry in their Mitsubishi Evos.
Although both drivers had a flawless run, it was Bonnici who got away with the victory by going more than three seconds faster - leaving Bavinton in second place outright.
Rounding out the event’s top three was Allen Coles in his Peugeot 206 GTI, who also led his competition’s class across the five runs thanks to his time of 46.26 seconds.
Behind the top three was another intriguing battle for the fourth place with Ric Ganderton winning
Photos: CH Images
the fight against Danny Ikin by fourth tenths of a second.
Just one-second behind in sixth place outright was Tim Anson, who outperformed seventh place getter Ian Maguire.
The junior class saw a standout driving performance from James Bonnici in a Mitsubishi Mirage, who managed to post the fastest time with a time of 49.57 seconds, demonstrating the younger talent within the autocross competition.
Another class winner was Patricia McLeod, who claimed the Ladies Class honours in her Suzuki Swift. Close behind, Sasha Hinchcliffe claimed second place in the same class, finishing just four positions behind Mcleod.
Other notable results from the first round included Dany Ikin claiming
Class D honours in a Ford Falcon, three positions below him was David Smith - who won Class A in his Honda Civic - whilst Bruce Dan picked up the honours for Class C.
The second round of Ipswich West Moreton Auto Club Autocross series is scheduled for Sunday 21 July 2024.
WHEN COMPROMISE ISN’T AN OPTION
BE RYCO READY
Ryco SynTec© oil filters give you the ultimate filtration protection.
Along with being engineered, developed, and tested at its Melbourne Laboratory, Ryco’s SynTec synthetic oil filters offer a premium upgrade over OE whilst delivering high efficiency filtration without compromising flow, so you can focus on the challenge ahead.
So, when your everyday passenger, 4x4 or commercial vehicle needs the same protection as a Supercar, be Ryco Ready.
SCAN OR CLICK TO FIND A SYNTEC OIL FILTER FOR YOUR VEHICLE.
Photos: CH Images
LOVEDAY PRIMED FOR BUMPER AORC RETURN
South Australia's Riverland will be the epicentre of off road in July as the Loveday 4x4 Adventure Park hosts Round 3 of the BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC).
Renowned for its scenic beauty and rich tourism offerings, South Australia's Riverland attracts visitors from around the globe.
The region boasts cellar doors, restaurants, local food vendors, and activities centred around the majestic Murray River, making it a beloved destination for many.
We have gone to great lengths to keep the cost down for spectators in today’s economic climate
Off road enthusiasts eager to experience the event on 26-28 July will be in for a treat, with the Loveday 400 draw to competitors from across Australia and New Zealand. The event promises a thrilling display of Australia's best crews featuring trucks and buggies across the classes, with the iconic Loveday Tavern only metres from the action throughout the day.
The Loveday 400 has earned a stellar reputation as a spectator friendly off road event thanks to the efforts of the organisers.
Park owner Tony Whateley emphasised their commitment to delivering an affordable and enjoyable event.
“We have gone to great lengths to keep the cost down for spectators in today’s economic climate,” Whateley said.
“Adult entry has been lowered to just $30 per person for the whole weekend to cover our costs. Entry includes camping behind the tavern over the three days with a modern shower and toilet block.”
Jody, the kitchen organiser for the event, added “a full menu and drinks will be available over the weekend. Spectators are welcome to bring their own supplies but please follow the Riverland’s fruit fly policy. No BYO is allowed in the Tavern and spectator areas due to our liquor licence restrictions.”
The 2024 Loveday 400 takes place on 26-28 July 2024 at Loveday 4x4 Adventure Park.
Photos:
Tony
Donoghue
TIGHE WINS BIG IN GRAFTON HILL CLIMB
Dean Tighe has bounced back from his Motorsport Australia Queensland Hillclimb Championship loss to take out the fifth round of the NSW State Championship season.
Taking place in Grafton, there were 28 competitors entered in the event, with Tighe going fastest overall thanks to an impressive time of 44.32 seconds.
The regular Motorsport Australia Hillclimb Championship contender was in a league of his own during the event – securing a victory of more than three seconds over veteran Dave Morrow.
Recording a time of 47.91 seconds, Morrow himself landed second place in comfortable fashion having enjoyed a two-second buffer over the third placed Greg Jones.
While each of the top two positions were comfortably secured by both Tighe and Morrow, the battle for the final podium place proved highly entertaining, as Jones claimed third place over Michael Boaden by three tenths a second.
It was even closer in the fight for fourth place with Boaden edging out Peter Akers by one tenth of a second.
There was no shortage of entertaining duels during the event either, with Erron Hennessy and Daryl Small separated by six hundredths of a second to secure seventh and eighth respectively, despite falling half a second behind the sixth placed Leslie Maloney.
Rounding out the top 10 was Brian Cox and David Hussey with competitive times of 51.75 and 52.32 seconds. The next round of the Motorsport Australia NSW Hill Climb Championship will be run by the Tamworth Sporting Car Club at Oakburn Park on 21 July.
View the full results on the Grafton Sporting Car Club's website
Photos: CH Images
PEDDER AND MACNEALL SECURE EPIC WIN IN QUEENSLAND
Scott Pedder and co-driver Glenn Macneall have won their first Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (ARC) round in 10 years after an epic Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland.
With many of Australia’s best rally crews struggling to navigate through the challenging Gympie roads, Pedder and Macneall enjoyed an almost perfect weekend across the 14 stages.
After more than 100 competitive kilometers, the Pedders Suspension and Brakes duo led an-all Skoda podium, as Eddie Maguire and Zak Brakey finished in second place ahead of Steve Maguire and Ben Searcy.
Pedder and Macneall’s victory came off the back of a dominant Heat 1, where they won all eight
stages to win the day by one minute over both Maguire Skodas.
Earlier in the Heat, both of Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia’s GR Yaris Rally 2 cars suffered significant damage –Harry Bates and Coral Taylor’s stage one off causing them to miss the rest of the day, while Lewis Bates and Anthony McLoughlin’s big crash on stage three proved more terminal.
On Sunday, Pedder and Macneall got off to a strong start by winning the opening two stages to lead the field at the midway point before a puncture on the day’s fourth stage saw him relinquish his lead to Harry and Taylor, who went on to win the remaining three stages and pick up all-important points on the Galvaniize Insurance Power Stage.
Despite failing to win any more stages, Pedder held on to second place and had done enough to secure the win.
“We knew we had the pace, we’ve just been unlucky for the first two events, but it came together over the last two days thanks to some luck we had with other competitors bombing out, but it feels fantastic.
It came together over the last two days thanks to some luck we had with other competitors bombing out
“It's a lot of relief, to be honest and ten years in the making,” Pedder said.
“I started the year saying if you finished every heat and you’re relatively conservative you can win the Championship. With the points system the way it is, you can’t afford to drop heats, and that’s the plan moving forward. You’ve just got to finish.”
As for Harry, the Heat win and Power Stage bonus points capped off a deserving consolation following the disappointing Heat 1 retirement.
Photos: CH Images
“I’m really sorry to the team for my mistake yesterday. It was pretty costly and obviously has put a dent in our championship aspirations, but just thankful to them that we’re able to repair it and come back fighting today,” Harry said.
“Today didn’t go perfectly either, but we’ve still salvaged a reasonable result out of it.
“It’s really tight now between Scott and I, so it’s exciting at the halfway point in the season, and I knew that it was going to come down to some pretty tight battles between he and I.
“I think today was probably the first day where we both actually had a reasonable enough run
to be able to fight it out. I think we’re going to have plenty of them as the season progresses.’
In fourth place for the event was Clayton Hoy and Andrew Bennett, who guided their Mitsubishi Evo to a well-deserved fourth place in Heat 1 and sixth place in Heat 2.
In addition to their remarkable outright position, Hoy and Bennett were also rewarded for their efforts with victory in both the MainFix ARC Production Cup and KickAss Products Motorsport Australia Queensland Rally Championship (QRC).
Rounding out the top five for the event were Jamie Luff and Bradley Luff after a consistent
SAFETY FUELS PERFORMANCE
l Authorised Australian distributor for Premier Fuel Systems.
l Authorised by Motorsport Australia as a fuel bladder re-certification facility
l Extensive range of motorsport & performance fuel system hardware
l FIA Re-fuelling solutions
l Custom fuel tank solutions, manufactured to FIA FT3 1999 - FT5 1999 approval.
performance saw them pick up sixth place finishes in both heats. There was plenty of drama throughout the ARC Cups, as Peter Dimmock and Paul Bennett’s Trenching Systems Australia 2WD Classic Cup victory in Heat 2 saw them claim overall round honours after Heat 1 class winners, Ryan Smart and Holly Kilbride failed to finish Heat 2.
In the ARC 2WD Cup, Justin Northage and Scott Muhling took out the win despite finishing Heat 2 in second place, while Mitch Garrad and Taylah Murphy scored two Heat wins in the ARC Junior Cup.
The Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship’s next outing will be in Victoria, with The Middle of Everywhere Gippsland Rally on 9-11 August.
full results for
View
the Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland via the Subaru Results Hub
Photos: CH Images
GIPPSLAND RALLY NEXT UP FOR ARC
This year’s The Middle of Everywhere Gippsland Rally will see crews tackle some of the best rally roads in Victoria on 9-11 August.
The rally will be contested across two days of action over 188 kilometres of stages, with Pedders Rally Central based out of Heyfield at Gordon Street Recreation Reserve once again.
The event will begin with a Friday night Rally Show in Sale where all cars will be on show for spectators
to get up close with the impressive machines and the talented crews.
Further spectator information will be provided closer to the event. All other event information can be viewed at rally.com.au.
This year’s The Middle of Everywhere Gippsland Rally will be made up of 16 stages, including the short 950m Hillclimb stage which will start off Sunday’s event and was a popular spectator point in 2023.
The Gippsland Rally will host Round 4 of the Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (ARC) and Round 3 of the Motorsport Australia Victorian Rally Championship (VRC).
The VRC will be contested over eight stages with two heats and only run on Saturday, while the ARC runs across both Saturday and Sunday.
Find out more about The Middle of Everywhere Gippsland Rally at rally.com.au
CONTACT US
The Motorsport Australia member hotline is open from 9am to 5pm AEST
So for all your motorsport needs call the Motorsport Australia Hotline on 1300 883 959, or visit the website at motorsport.org.au Email memberservices@motorsport.org.au
lHit up Motorsport Australia on social media for photos from events, news, videos and other great motorsport content.
SEND US YOUR STORIES
If you have a motorsport story which you think should be told, get in touch with us and it could appear in Speed Read.
If you have pictures or videos of motorsport you would like to share with us, we encourage you to do so. They could appear on our website, social media platforms or in Speed Read. Please email communications@motorsport.org.au
We look forward to hearing from you.
