SPEED READ J U N E
2 0 2 2
FEELING FINKE READY
There is something special about the Tatts Finke Desert Race and in June, the BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship’s premiere event will again take centre stage.
2022 FERRARI DRIVER ACADEMY UPCOMING INFORMATION SESSION
RALLY LAUNCESTON BACK ON THE NATIONAL STAGE
Details on the next Asia Pacific and Oceania regional selection program for the Ferrari Driver Academy will be shared via an online webinar in June.
Tasmania finally gets its chance to host the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship for the first time since 2019.
M O T O R S P O R T . O R G . A U
FIA RELEASE HYBRID FHR INFO The FIA have released further information to assist users on the proper use of the Hybrid Frontal Head Restraint device.
GE SH Q T A AN U N NO OT EW NS E ^ .C TO EL OM IG .A EN IB U/ T L CO ER E R VE
TT
dian 2022 Scout In Motorcycle
E
et 1974 Chevrol ertible v n o Corvette C
Shannons are giving motoring enthusiasts the chance to win ‘The All-American Sports Car’ – a 1974 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible and a heritage-inspired 2022 Scout Indian Motorcycle! Including up to 12-months Shannons Comprehensive Car and Bike Insurance and Shannons Roadside Assist1. Plus $5,000 cash for eligible Shannons Club Members2. The Corvette combines the road-holding and handling qualities of a true sports car with the grace and refinement of a personal luxury car. The car on offer is sympathetically restored and in the original left-hand drive configuration. Finished in classic white with black vinyl upholstery. Under the bonnet, a factory original 350 V8 motor with a 4-speed manual transmission provides great driver engagement. The Scout Indian Motorcycle is where heritage-inspired design meets modern performance. Featuring a low seat height and lightweight frame for an easy ride and a liquid-cooled, 1133cc, 94-horsepower V-twin for punchy acceleration.
1 5
10
You could win up to $103,000 in prizes!
ENTRY
Get a new eligible Quote^
ENTRIES
Take out an eligible new Motor Policy*
ENTRIES
Take out an eligible new Home & Contents Policy or have an Existing Home & Contents Policy+
The more quotes you get the more chances you have to win!
To view conditions and enter go to shannons.com.au/corvette or call 13 46 46 and obtain an eligible new quote on your Car, Bike or Home Insurance^ by 30 June 2022**.
Scan to find out more
INSURANCE FOR MOTORING ENTHUSIASTS | CALL 13 46 46 FOR A QUOTE | SHANNONS.COM.AU Shannons Pty Limited is an authorised representative of AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807, the product issuer. Read the Product Disclosure Statement before buying this insurance. The Target Market Determination is also available. Call us on 13 46 46 for a copy. This advice has been prepared without taking into account your particular objectives, financial situations or needs, so you should consider whether it is appropriate for you before acting on it. The information is intended to be of general nature only. We do not accept any legal responsibility for any loss incurred as a result of reliance upon it - please make your own enquiries. All benefits in this offer are a summary only. Limits, conditions and exclusions apply. For a full description of the benefits and exclusions, please refer to the relevant PDS. Competition conducted by Shannons Pty Limited, of Level 23, 80 Ann Street, Brisbane Queensland 4000. Competition commences at 12am on 7/2/22 and closes at 11.59pm on 30/6/22 (Melbourne time) (Entry Period). Entry is only open to eligible Australian residents aged 18 years or older. Eligible Entrants must be opted in to receive Shannons marketing communications and must not opt out during the Entry Period. Maximum cost of call will not exceed 55 cents + GST from an Australian land line. Higher rates may apply for mobile phones or pay phones. Prizes drawn at 12pm on 14/7/22 at Engage Interactive, 24 Washpool Crescent, Woongarrah, NSW 2259. The winner will be notified by phone and email by 16/7/22 and published in The Australian newspaper on 18/7/22 and on the competition website. Permits: ACT TP 21/02309 SA T21/2078 & NSW Authority Number TP/00259. Images for illustrative purposes only. The Chevrolet Corvette will be provided to the winner as an unregistered vehicle. Registration or Club Permit for the Chevrolet Corvette, including any modifications required by the respective state or territory authorities (in order to effect registration or permits) will be the sole responsibility of the winner. ^Apply for and receive a new Shannons Motor Insurance (excludes CTP insurance) (“Motor Policy”) or a new Shannons Home & Contents Insurance Policy (includes building only, contents only or building and contents cover) (“Home Policy”) quote during the Entry Period. Limit 1 quote per vehicle or insured address. For the avoidance of doubt, an Eligible Insurance Quote for a combined building and contents policy constitutes one risk for the purposes of this Competition. **Applications made online for quotes must be submitted by 27/6/22, however, telephone applications will continue to be available until 11.59pm 30/6/22. Quotes and issue of policy are subject to Shannons normal underwriting acceptance criteria. *Purchase a new Motor Policy (excludes existing Motor Policy renewals) during the Entry Period. +Purchase a new Home and Contents Policy OR hold an existing fully paid Home and Contents Policy (current during the Entry Period). Customers that do not wish to participate in the competition can email enquiries@shannons.com.au. 1Actual period may be less than 365 days depending on the winner’s location and delivery/pick up date, however, won’t be less than 11 months residual benefit. The issue of Shannons Insurance is subject to Shannons normal acceptance criteria. The inclusion of this component of the prize does not constitute financial product advice or a recommendation to acquire any Shannons Insurance product. The issue of Shannons optional Roadside Assist is subject to the winner being issued the comprehensive car and motorcycle insurance portion of the prize and the Issuer’s normal acceptance criteria. Shannons Roadside Assist is only available 24 hours after it has been added to your comprehensive policy. 2 If the winner is a member of the Shannons Club with a profile image and enthusiast vehicle image at the time of the draw, they will receive $5,000 AUD cash. Full T&Cs and entry options at shannons.com.au/corvette.
CONTENTS 4
Tighe fastest in NSW Hillclimb championship
6
Rain no problem for NSW Motor Racing Championships
8
Taylor charges to AORC lead with Pooncarie win
10
FIA release Hybrid FHR info
12
AORC ready for another famous Finke chapter
14
Motorsport Australia to outline 2022 Ferrari Driver Academy selection
16
Essential Officials Matrices update
17
InWolk extends partnership with Motorsport Australia
18
Your chance to be a Supercheap Auto Official Superstar
20
What's on in June?
22
Developing Victoria’s future home of motorsport
24
Back-to-back 12hr wins for French GT star
26
Motorsport Australia ‘Proud2Play’
28
ARC returns to WA with a bang
30
Rally Launceston back on the national stage
32
Michelin backing Porsche’s rising stars
34
Sydney welcomes super Shannons show
36
Shannons ready for Island sequel
38
Waters breaks 2022 Super drought
40
Queensland Raceway refreshed and ready
41
TARGA Style Tarmac Rally update
42
Member Forum replay available
COVER
2021 Finke Champion, Toby Price, will be back again in this year's edition of the gruelling up-andback off road race. Photo by Terry Hill Photography.
275 Canterbury Road, Canterbury VIC 3126 PO Box 172, Canterbury LPO Vic 3126 Member Hotline 1800 883 959 (9am - 5pm AEST) Telephone 1300 883 959 or +61 3 9593 7777 Website motorsport.org.au
E-mail info@motorsport.org.au
6 8 14 16 34 38
Photo: CH Images
TIGHE FASTEST IN NSW HILLCLIMB CHAMPIONSHIP 4 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
Dean Tighe added some more silverware to his trophy cabinet last month after winning the fourth round of the Motorsport Australia NSW Hill Climb Championship. With 34 competitors taking part in the Kempsey Sporting Car Club run event at Mount Cooperabung Hillclimb, Tighe was a cut above the rest as he claimed victory over Dave Morrow by almost three seconds. Competitors were allowed five runs at the course, but Tighe only needed two as his eventwinning time of 24.451 seconds was enough to win the event, while Morrow’s best time of 27.139 seconds came on his fourth attempt.
Photos: CH Images
Rounding out the podium behind the two open wheelers was Wayne Penrose, who powered his VW Bug to a competitive time of 28.341 seconds and also enjoyed the honour of being the fastest tin top. Although Morrow enjoyed a state championship podium, he wasn’t the second fastest throughout the event with Darren Read one and a half seconds faster than him. As he wasn’t registered with the championship, Read was unable to score points, however his
25.451-second run proved the second fastest time of the event, a time he achieved on his last run of the course. There were also multiple records broken throughout the weekend, including from Penrose who broke his own 3D Sports Sedans 20013000CC time – an achievement also completed by 3E Touring Cars winner Cameron Brown. Other records included Robert Bell in the Sports Sedans 1300-200cc who beat Greg Ward’s previous record by less than one tenth of a second and
Warren Bell who claimed a new record in the Time Attach Rear Wheel Drive. The next round of the championship takes place this month with the Mountain View Motor Sport Complex in Grafton on 12 June.
Click here to view the full results from the weekend.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 5
Photos: Barry Sheaves
RAIN NO PROBLEM FOR NSW MOTOR RACING CHAMPIONSHIPS
More than 100 competitors took part in the Motorsport Australia NSW Motor Race Championships last month with six categories featured in the round at Wakefield Park. There was lots of good racing throughout the weekend amongst all six categories despite rain causing havoc on both days of action. Although there were good fields, at least four of them were dominated by one driver – the most notable being Craig Sparke in Formula Vee. Armed with the biggest field of the day, 26 competitors lined up
for the category’s three races, however Sparke proved too good and won all three races. Joining Sparke with dominant spells in their respective categories was Formula Ford winner James Piszcyyk, Production Touring car winner Harrison Cooper and Trevan Spiteri, who who won all four of the Improved Production Over 2 Litres Class races. Mathew Harris was the star performer in the Improved Production Under 2 Litres, winning two races and finishing the other two on the podium.
In the last category of the day, Adam Gotch took out the Formula Cars after his final race win capped off two podiums. The Motorsport Australia NSW Motor Race Championships return this month with the fourth round to take place at Sydney Motorsport Park on 25 June.
6 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
Photo: Gears and Wheels Photography
TAYLOR CHARGES TO AORC LEAD WITH POONCARIE WIN Ryan Taylor won the 2022 Coomealla Memorial Club & Bendigo Bank Pooncarie Desert Dash last month, with the win his first ever at national level. It was a brilliant performance from the Queenslander, who finished third in Prologue, before storming home to a 40-second victory over Shane Elphinstone Adam Trewhalla. In what was pro-buggy dominated event, 2012 BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC) winner Matt Hanson and navigator Nigel Pendlebury rounded out the podium. Outside of producing consistent lap times, which saw him top section one and finish second in section two, Taylor’s victory was aided by the fact that the championship leader heading into the event in Josh Howells retired early.
8 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
“No words can describe the feeling we’ve got right now” It was race full of woes for Howells, who had gearbox issues on day one and a broken alternator at the start of the second section.
“Just elated and all the hard word that goes into coming to these events, we’ve been doing this for years and to finally get one under the belt is awesome. “Being AORC leader has a nice ring to it and I can certainly get used to it, but we can’t get ahead of ourselves. “It’s a great result for us to lead the championship on points going to Finke. We came to Pooncarie to get points and we couldn’t have done any better this weekend. “Honestly, it’s been the best weekend ever. I can’t ask for anything more.”
As a result of Howells’ retirement, Taylor’s victory saw him move to the top of the championship standings for the first time in his AORC career.
Taylor wasn’t the only driver to benefit from Howells’ misfortune with Jake Swinglehurst finishing fourth in Pooncarie.
“No words can describe the feeling we’ve got right now,” Taylor said post-event.
With St George podium placer and nine-time AORC champion Shannon Rentsch also retiring, it gave Swinglehurst a second
Photos: Gears and Wheels Photography
consecutive AORC top five finish and bumped him to second place on the standings behind Taylor. “Super happy with fourth and backing up St George with a good result,” Swinglehurst said. “I had no idea that we would be so high on the standings so early in just our first year in the car." In the KINCROME SXS Motorsport Australia Championship, Lachlan Bailey put in a stellar performance to claim the SXS win on debut. “Definitely wasn’t expecting to win,” Bailey said. “I think we got a bit lucky, but that’s racing I suppose.” Bailey edged out Greg Campbell, who leads the SXS Championship, while Nic Hicks picked up the final podium placing ahead of Justin Rider. Hicks was leading for much of Sunday until drama struck late in the lap. It was a tough final day for many competitors, with plenty of attrition across all field and classes. Ultimately, those who could power through the chaos went on to secure
all important Championship points and put in a solid preparation for Finke. Brent Smoothy and Rheece Burgess won the Extreme 2WD class, with Beau Robinson and Shane Hutt among those to battle through Sunday’s three laps. Mel and Melissa Brandle were quick all weekend, taking out the pro-lite class win over Ally Howells and Sarah Corrigan. In the Sportslite class, James Tyrrell secured the class win – finishing 17th overall. The next round of the BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship will be the iconic Tatts Finke Desert Race on 10-13 June.
Click here to view results from the weekend.
Click here to view the standings after round two.
WATCH THE HIGHLIGHTS Off road fans can now watch the Coomealla Memorial Club and Bendigo Bank Pooncarie Desert Dash extended highlights via 7Plus. Hosted by popular media personality Greg Rust, the show features a number of interviews, highlights and results of the first running of the AORC’s newest event.
Click here to watch the event show on 7Plus.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 9
FIA RELEASE HYBRID FHR INFO Following last month's announcement surrounding the proper use of the Hans Frontal Head Restraint device, the FIA have released further information to assist users of the Hybrid FHR device. The Hybrid and Hybrid Pro is a type of FIA-approved Frontal Head Restraint (FHR) device made by Simpson race products, which protects a driver in a front-on collision and angled-frontal impacts. It uses a combination of straps around the driver’s body to anchor it, which then connects to the helmet to support their neck in an impact. Drivers must ensure that the Hybrid and Hybrid Pro is used with at least five-point harness which are FIA-
10 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
approved. When seated, the Hybrid and Hybrid Pro straps should be adjusted to enable the helmet to move a maximum of 50mm forward and to rotate left and right. The rear tethers should be adjusted first, followed by the front. The lateral free movement should be less than 25mm and less than 90° on each side. More detailed information to help competitors on the selection and installation of Hybrid and Hybrid Pro device can be viewed in this link. The angle of the shoulder belts should be between 10° and 25° viewed from above, and between 0° and 20° viewed from the side. Make sure the shoulder straps run freely between the shoulder slots.
Click here to view the video that provides a best-practice overview of how to properly wear the Hybrid and Hybrid Pro device to ensure optimum performance.
More information about the Motorsport Australia application of the use of FHRs can be found here.
How #25 became 1 on the mountain. CLICK HERE TO WATCH VIDEO
www.m1oils.com.au
There is something special about the Tatts Finke Desert Race and in June, the BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship’s (AORC) premiere event will again take centre stage. As it has for decades, the event will see a bumper entry list take on the trying conditions of the Australian desert during the Queens’ Birthday long weekend, and more than 160 crews will look to complete the challenging two-way journey, Many of the AORC’s top contenders will be competing in the third round of the championship and while most will be looking to build on their strong starts to the year, there will be some looking to get their seasons back on track.
12 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
The most notable names of that second category include Shannon Rentsch, who has won the iconic event multiple times, and the ever-improving Josh Howells, who has been the dominant force of the AORC as of late yet doesn’t have a national title or Finke win under his belt. Another top draw driver starved of success is Beau Robinson – the West Australian still searching for that elusive maiden win in Finke.
of Jake Swinglehurst, Matt Huxley, Garry Turnbull, Greg Campbell, Ally Howells and Brett Comiskey.
“It’s a very special race that has worldwide status”
A couple of drivers entered in the grand desert race who are enjoying life in the AORC include Championship leader Ryan Taylor and the likes
Photo: Terry Hill Photography
AORC READY FOR ANOTHER FAMOUS FINKE CHAPTER “When I first started off road in Australia, the goal was always to go to Finke,” Comiskey said. “The whoops make it an exceptional challenge, as are the logistics of getting there so it’s all about management.
“You think why put so much effort into it, but it’s the attraction of it and it’s a very special race that has worldwide status.” All of those drivers have had good runs in the opening two rounds of the season and all would be looking to
Photo: Randall Kilner
Photo: Terry Hill Photography
continue that momentum and pick up some serious points in Alice Springs. Add in a few individuals who haven’t been able to make it to a round of the AORC this year, including 2019 AORC Champion Mark Burrows, Paul Weel and of course the star of Finke, Toby Price - there are plenty of names capable of standing on the top step of the podium come Monday morning. As for the schedule itself, event organisers have chosen not to toy with a traditional schedule that works and have kept the cars before the bikes. The event unofficially kicks off on the Wednesday night with a special event at Lasseters Casino, before Thursday night’s exciting street party takes over Alice Springs.
Fans will have one last chance to see all the cars and bikes up close, as well as meeting the drivers on the Friday, with the start/finish line to host Scrutineering. On the Saturday, the business begins at around 8am local time with Method Race Wheels Prologue to set up everyone’s starting places for the Sunday trip down to Finke. For those that make the 224-kilometre journey, they will have to do it all over again on Sunday morning, only this time, they have to make their way back up to Alice Springs with the podium to take place on Monday morning at around 12pm ACST. Fans and spectators will be able to camp and visit spectator points along
the track, while those who can’t make it will be able to watch the extended highlights show in the weeks following. The Tatts Finke Desert Race takes place in Alice Springs and Aputula on 10-13 June.
Click here to view the entry list.
Click here for all the information of Finke.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 13
Photo: Ferrari Media
MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA TO OUTLINE 2022 FERRARI DRIVER ACADEMY SELECTION Details on the next Asia Pacific and Oceania regional selection program for the Ferrari Driver Academy (FDA) will be shared via an online webinar in June. The webinar, which will be held at 7.30pm Australian Eastern Standard Time (GMT +10) on Tuesday, 7 June, will include details about the application process as well as what to expect at the selection camp. A replay of the webinar will be available on Motorsport Australia’s website for those unable to attend on the night. This year, the Asia Pacific/Oceania FDA selection camp will be held in Sepang, Malaysia, and run by Motorsport Australia. This will take place in September 2022. Drivers selected for the camp will get the opportunity to drive a Formula 4 car on the iconic Sepang circuit, as well as take part in a range of exercises aimed at providing learnings as well as assessments for the selection panel. Since 2020, Motorsport Australia has been selected to work with the FDA to run the Asia Pacific and Oceania regional selection program.
Each year, drivers aged between 14 and 17 are invited to apply to be included the selection process. Drivers from countries named below will be eligible to apply for the Asia Pacific and Oceania program. Countries included in the Asia Pacific and Oceania region of the Ferrari Driver Academy are: Australia, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Burma, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei, Philippines, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, New Zealand and China. In 2020, Australian James Wharton was selected as the global winner and has since been part of the FDA, and this year is now driving in European Formula 4 Championships with FDA support. Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport & Commercial Operations Michael Smith said the 2022 selection process would provide a terrific opportunity to identify talent in the region. “We’re delighted to be hosting our first ever Asia Pacific/Oceania Ferrari Driver Academy selection camp in Malaysia, giving young drivers from the region the opportunity to shine and set up their future careers,” Smith said. “We know there are many eligible young karters in particular who will be eager to showcase their talents and why they should be part of the FDA in the future. “Motorsport Australia and the FDA work closely together throughout
14 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
“We’re delighted to be hosting our first ever Asia Pacific/ Oceania Ferrari Driver Academy selection camp in Malaysia” the selection process, and we look forward to welcoming interested applicants to our information session on Tuesday, 7 June. This will be a terrific opportunity to learn about the whole process and the various requirements that will need to be completed throughout the application process.” Once applications for 2022 are open following the webinar, Motorsport Australia and the FDA will then select the best applicants to attend the Sepang selection camp, where one driver will then ultimately be chosen to represent our region at the FDA Scouting World Finals in October this year. Motorsport Australia will host its FDA information webinar on 7 June at 7.30pm AEST (GMT +10). Registration for the webinar is essential.
Click here to register for the webinar.
meguiars.com.au
Meguiar’s Hybrid family - to protect and shine.
Photo: Revved Photography
ESSENTIAL OFFICIALS MATRICES UPDATE Motorsport Australia has updated its Essential Officials Matrices after a thorough review and consultation with multiple stakeholders. The Matrices were initially created to display the minimum licence level that essential officials are required to hold at Motorsport Australia sanctioned events across all levels and disciplines.
“The updates will reduce the burden on event organisers, but also maintain the structure of having higher graded officials fulfilling important roles at events” 16 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
During COVID-19, Motorsport Australia set up a recovery taskforce to help the sport improve its processes and growth opportunities. As part of this, the opportunity was taken to align the Matrices to already established Motorsport Australia rules. There were multiple factors considered during the review process including the confirmation of the minimum level of required officials and the current officials’ development pathway which can assist individuals in obtaining and maintaining Silver and Gold Licences. Some of the updates across most disciplines included the removal of Club Chiefs and the minimum number of Stewards attending each event, while another notable change was increasing the Clerk of Course licence level for all National Level Speed events to Silver. Motorsport Australia General Manager of Motorsport and Commercial Operations Michael Smith believed the new changes would benefit the sport.
“When the taskforce's recommendations were considered, it was important to find a good balance between making life easier for event organisers, but still keeping safety at the forefront,” Smith said. “The new updates around the essential officials’ requirements will reduce the burden on event organisers, but also maintain the structure of having higher graded officials fulfilling important roles at events. “All disciplines of the sport were reviewed and we believe these changes will have a positive effect on participants, officials and event organisers.”
Click here to view the updated matrices.
INWOLK EXTENDS PARTNERSHIP WITH MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA Motorsport Australia’s Official IT Provider, InWolk, will continue to partner with Motorsport Australia in 2022 and beyond. Developers of Motorsport Australia’s new member portal and customer database, InWolk also provide several key IT services to run the core backend business and endto-end customer services online. Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca thanked InWolk for their ongoing support. “We are pleased to continue working with the team at InWolk who have been such a big part of our recent IT transformation, including our new look member portal,” Arocca said. “Improving our online offering to members is something that we are particularly focused on at this time, as part of a broader radical simplification of our systems. “We know that more and more people want to be able to complete their renewals or licence applications online, as we add more functionality to our portal and online systems. “InWolk are committed to helping us achieve our goal of more people enjoying more motorsport more often. We’ve been working closely with InWolk for many years and are
excited to be officially continuing that partnership in 2022.” InWolk are also on hand to assist Motorsport Australia affiliated clubs with any IT needs they may have, including providing a simple, yet powerful, customer database as used by Motorsport Australia. Imran Buch and Bhushan Madduri, InWolk’s Co-Founders were thrilled to be extending the partnership with Motorsport Australia. “Through the recent introduction of InWolk’s Octozy Business Cloud, a part of which the Octozy membership database, Octozy customer portal, and Octozy mobile app are, we’re delighted to have been able to help Motorsport Australia members enjoy a streamlined and a rewarding online experience,” Madduri said. “Motorsport Australia’s undeterred support during very challenging customer centric transformation phases is highly commendable and with this critical support, it was a smooth transition. “We are working hard to deliver even more improvements and added functions for Motorsport Australia members in the coming months and can’t wait to continue our partnership well into the future.”
InWolk’s Imran Buch added, “We’re passionate about what we do, just as we know Motorsport Australia members are passionate about the sport. “All of us at InWolk are excited about sharing that passion and providing greater IT functionality to motorsport participants across the country. “Our constant endeavour to improve visibility, support self-sustaining online communities and partner-networks are in line with Motorsport Australia’s vision of simplifying processes yet delivering more value to their members and partner network. “We thank Eugene and team Motorsport for their continued trust in us and we look forward to another fantastic year with Motorsport and many more.”
To find out more about InWolk’s services, head to inwolk.com
For InWolk’s business cloud information visit octozy.com
“We are working hard to deliver even more improvements and added functions for Motorsport Australia members in the coming months” MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 17
Photo: Revved Photography
YOUR CHANCE TO BE A SUPERCHEAP AUTO OFFICIAL SUPERSTAR
Motorsport Australia along with Supercheap Auto are on the lookout for a monthly Supercheap Auto Official Superstar to cast the spotlight on and share their story in Speed Read. Volunteer Officials around Australia are encouraged to submit a story about how they went above and beyond at an event they have attended. Each month, a winning submission will be chosen and their story will be featured in the next edition of Speed Read. In addition to their story being shared, the winner will also receive a commemorative pin and a $200 Supercheap Auto gift card.
18 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
With officials being the heartbeat of motorsport, Australia is lucky to have some of the best in the world. There are 10,000 Motorsport Australia officials around the country and each and every one of them have contributed to the sport in one way or another, helping events take place on every level. Without officials, motorsport couldn’t exist.
Click here to submit your story about going above and beyond at a Motorsport Australia event.
JOIN THE
CLUB CLUB CREDIT
NO SECRET H A N DS H A K E REQUIRED
If a product you purchase goes on sale within two weeks we’ll automatically credit the difference to your Club account.
CLUB SPECIALS
Exclusive, member-only prices on different items every week.
FORGET ABOUT RECEIPTS
No-hassle warranty & returns as we keep your Club purchases on file. SCAN HERE
Join the Club to receive all the latest offers and catalogues supercheapauto.com.au
WHAT'S ON IN
Events in many states may be postponed or cancelled due the current COVID-19 restrictions.
JUNE?
Please refer to government restrictions in your area and Motorsport Australia's Return To Race guidelines: motorsport.org.au/COVID19
NEW SOUTH WALES AND ACT
5 June: SDMA Club Hillclimb 4-5 June: Colo Park Challenge 5 June: ANZAC Khanacross 5 June: Flying Fifth 5 June: TCC State Championship Round 6 & TCC Ernie's Revenge Club Motorkhana 5 June: Club Motorkhana - Round 2 5 June: Newcastle All Japan Day 10-12 June: Australian Hay Mini Nationals 10-26 June: Endurance Trial 11 June: HSVFest Show and Shine 11-12 June: Bega Valley Rally 11-12 June: HSRCA 2022 Sydney Classic 11-12 June: CAV/IROAD Motorsport Australia NSW Hillclimb Championship Round 3 18 June: PCNSW 2022 Tony McKnight Motorkhana Championship Round 3 18 June: Rays Mechanical Services Autocross 19 June: Euro Motorfest 19 June: Tour D Course 19 June: June Come N Try Motorkhana 19 June: TC Hydraulics S1 Rallysprint 19 June: Club Lap Dash 19 June: HDCC June State Khanacross 19 June: Motorkhana #3 19 June: MX5 NSW HC22 R1 19 June: MGCCN KC3, Dirt & Tar Khanacross 25 June: Wombats Diggings Rallysprint 25 June: 2022 Motorsport Australia NSW Motor Race Championship Nankang Tyres Round 4 25 June: CSCA Round 3 Supersprint 26 June: Club & Come and Try Hillclimb
Photo: NSW Sapphire Coast Sporting Car Club
NSW: 11-12 June - Bega Valley Rally The NSW Rally Championship resumes this month with the iconic Bega Valley Rally, which comprises of 15 stages and a competitive distance of 229km.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
4-5 June: AGL Rally SA – Rally of the Heartland 5 June: Ray Pank Winter Cup 2 5 June: Khanacross 11-12 June: Autocross Championship & 2022 SA Autocross Series Round 1 12 June: MSCA Super Sprint 19 June: MSCA Supersprint Round 2 25-26 June: The Guidolin Carpentry SGORA 200 26 June: Scout JDP and Come & Try Motorkhana 26 June: Collingrove Challenge Trophy 3
NORTHERN TERRITORY
10-13 June: 2022 Tatts Finke Desert Race 5 June: ASORCC Access Shakedown 15-19 June: Merlin Darwin Triple Crown Supercars 26 June: Track Round 3 & Driftkhana
TASMANIA
4 June: Tasmanian Motorkhana Championship Round 2 19 June: Hillclimb and Super Sprints 19-26 June: 2022 Rally Launceston
QUEENSLAND
Photo: Dakar Press Team Australia
WA: 4-5 June - Marsue Transport Make Tracks WA ARB Bencubbin 2022 Home to one of the fastest off road tracks in WA, Bencubbin will once again welcome a huge field of crews for the latest round in the Motorsport Australia WA Off Road Championship. 20 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
4-5 June: Queensland Hillclimb Championship 4-5 June: Bitumen Khanacross Round 1 5 June: Autocross Round 2 11 June: Porsche Club Sprints 11-12 June: TCAC Khanacross Series Round 2 NQ Khanacross Series Round 2 11 June: Charters Towers Burnouts 11 June: Clermont Motorkhana and Come and Try Day 11-12 June: CCCC Round 3 Dirt Khanacross Series 12 June: CQMSC Round 2 Khanacross Series 12 June: Tamborine Khanacross
18 June: KCF Rallysport Short Course Winter Stages 25-26 June: Rd 2 2022 Qld-NSW Sprint Challenge & Rd 2 2022Short Circuit Touring Cars Series 25-26 June: Mt Cotton Hillclimb Round 4 26 June: Central Queensland Motor Sporting Club Driftkhana 26 June: Holden Sporting Car Club of Qld Khanacross
VICTORIA
4-5 June: VCAS Round 5/Come & Try 5 June: Avalon Motorkhana Round 1 5 June: Gippsland Car Club Khanacross 5 June: Bendigo Car Club Motorkhana 5 June: BCC Khanacross and Motorkhana 5 June: Cec Jackman Motorkhana Series Round 2 CDC4
5 June: Ballarat Light Car Club Khanacross Series Round 2 10-13 June: Mudbash 11-12 June: Victorian Hillclimb Championship Round 6 12 June: HSVfest Motorkhana 12-13 June: Super Sprint / Driver Training Day 18-19 June: Nissan Nightmoves 18-19 June: VMC Round 4 18 June: MADCC Round 3 19 June: BMWDCM Sandown Come and Try/Driver Training 2022 19 June: Gippsland Car Club Hillclimb 19 June: Closed Club Autocross Championship Round 3 24-27 June: Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships Round 4
WESTERN AUSTRALIA 4 June: 2022 Western Australian Motorkhana Championship Round 2 4-5 June: 2022 Albany Classic Round the Houses 4-6 June: Great Southern Street Machine Association Inc. Weekend of Speed 4-5 June: Marsue Transport Make Tracks WA ARB Bencubbin 2022 5 June: Midvale Speed Dome Consistency Khanacross 5 June: Red Mist Series 12 Series 2 11 June: Collie Motorplex Come & Try Day
Photo: CH Images
QLD: 4-5 June - Queensland Hillclimb Championship The best hill climbers in Queensland will congregate at the popular Mount Cotton and try their best to take out a state championship title. MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 21
DEVELOPING VICTORIA’S FUTURE HOME OF MOTORSPORT The Victorian Government has allocated $1.7million in its 2022/23 budget to undertake design, master planning and site due diligence for the ‘Home of Victorian Motorsport’. Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca said the funding was a significant step in developing another important motorsport venue for Victoria. “We have been working closely with the Victorian Government around discussions for a new motorsport venue in the state, which we know is sorely needed,” Arocca said.
All locations will be considered, as well as the size and scope of the venue.
affiliated clubs and venues, so we are very grateful that they see the benefit motorsport delivers to the state. “Our recent Ernst & Young research highlighted motorsport’s strong contribution to the state’s economy, with motorsport contributing 4,400 direct jobs in Victoria, as well as more than $800million of gross output every year. This new venue will only see that grow in the years ahead.”
“Motorsport participation is growing rapidly across the state and we’re undertaking detailed planning work to help make the Victorian Home of Motorsport a reality”
“This funding announcement is a terrific show of support from the Andrews Government who like us, can see the need for more facilities as motorsport’s popularity continues to grow. “The funding will allow the Victorian Government and Motorsport Australia to conduct preliminary work into finding a location for a Victorian Home 22 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
of Motorsport and allow more people to enjoy more motorsport more often.”
“This is early days in the project, but as many people would know, you need to put in the hard work now for the benefit of the sport into the future,” Arocca added. “This support from the Victorian Government is in addition to the many funding programs they have initiated with us, benefiting Motorsport Australia
Victoria’s Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula said the sport’s growth highlighted the need for more facilities.
"Motorsport participation is growing rapidly across the state and we’re undertaking detailed planning work to help make the Victorian Home of Motorsport a reality,” Pakula said. “I look forward to Motorsport Australia finalising the location of the Victorian Home of Motorsport and seeing the plans for the new precinct.”
THE NEW STANDARD FOR PERFORMANCE INJECTORS
THE MOST ACCURATE INJECTORS SETS AVAILABLE Electronic Pressure Controls:
Temperature Controls:
Electronic Voltage Controls:
3 Bar +/- 0.5%
21°C +/- 2.0°C
14 V +/- 0.05 V
DATA
It’s called Exact Match data for a reason ... FOR EVERY INJECTOR • 6,500 flow points recorded • 3 TESTS High Slope, Low Slope and Static Flow • High Flow Slopes matched within 1% • Deadtimes matched within 2%
No two sets have the same data file. We do not supply generic tuning data
EACH SET HAS INDIVIDUAL TUNE FILES FOR: • • • • • •
HP Tuner - GM, Ford and Chrysler Haltech SCT - Ford Link EFI Live COBB - Subaru
OTHER EXCITING PERFORMANCE RANGE AVAILABLE PERFORMANCE INJECTORS
Available at www.racerindustries.com.au or contact Performance Injectors hotline 1300 123 334
PERFORMANCE PUMPS
Official partner of motorsport Australia
Photo: Edge Photographics
BACK-TO-BACK 12HR WINS FOR FRENCH GT STAR After more than two years and multiple delays, the Liqui Moly Bathurst 12 Hour was finally held last month with an international team taking out top honours.
Making the win even sweeter for Gounon was the fact that he became the first driver in the event’s history to win the race back-toback after winning it in 2022.
Led by American-based Aussie Kenny Habul, the powerhouse international team made up of Luca Stolz, Martin Konrad and international GT gun Jules Gounon steered the Sunenergy1 #75 Mercedes AMG to a thrilling victory.
Over the course of the 12 hours, 291 laps were completed by the quartet and in the end, just eight seconds separated them with second placed Craft-Bamboo Racing #91 Mercedes-AMG, driven by more international drivers in Maro Engel, Daniel Juncadella and Kevin Tse.
24 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
In what ended up an all-MercedesAMG podium lockout, the Triple Eight Racing Mercedes of Prince Jefri Ibrahim and Repco Supercars Championship drivers Shane van Gisbergen and Broc Feeney rounded out the podium. With 20 cars making up the full entry list, it was a final result dominated by the three Mercedes cars. However, that was far from the full story, with another German manufacturer in Audi having dominated the field in the lead up to the main event.
Photos: Edge Photographics
Topping the time sheets for much of the weekend, the Audi cars solidified their position as the favourites after Chaz Mostert steered the #65 Coinspot Audi R8 Evo II to pole position. Claiming second place in qualifying and sealing an Audi front-row lockout was South African Kelvin van der Linde in the #74 Audi Sport Team Valvoline Audi. Both Audis would go on to have completely different fortunes in the race, as the #65 car, which had experienced GT drivers Fraser Ross and Liam Talbot joining Mostert, failed to finish after Ross crashed at the start of the eighth hour. The #74 on the other hand ended up finishing the race in fourth
place, one lap behind the winners as Brad Schumacher, Nathanael Berthon and particularly van der Linde all put in good shifts. While the #6 Wall Racing prepared Lamborghini Huracan driven by Adrian Deitz, Tony D'Alberto, Grant Denyer and David Wall finished an impressive fifth – the next four positions were all occupied by Audis. The last of those Audis had David Russell, Paul Stokell and James Koundouris behind the wheel and the trio steered the Supabarn backed car to the Amateur class victory.
and well-respected GT racers Geoff Emery and Scott Taylor. Only 11 cars managed to finish a chaotic race with C Tech Laser's Tony Bates, Cam Waters and David Reynolds guiding their Audi to 11th place and 35 laps behind the winners. The Bathurst 12 Hour is due to return to its traditional February slot in 2023.
Click here for more news from the 2022 Liqui Moly Bathurst 12 Hour.
Rounding out the top 10 was the C Class winning Prostate Cancer Foundation Porsche 991.2 GT3 of Craig Lowndes, Alex Davison MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 25
MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA ‘PROUD2PLAY’ Motorsport Australia has signed up to the Rainbow Sporting Alliance through the ‘Proud2Play’ initiative. Announced on IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia), with Motorsport Australia eager to play a leading role in supporting an inclusive environment for all members. The Rainbow Sports Alliance is an organisational membership that brings together sporting organisations and local governments to make sport and active recreation a more welcoming space for the LGBTIQ+ community and to champion change through education, advocacy and networking. Motorsport Australia has already been part of one event in recent weeks, with the ‘Pride In Motorsport’ panel discussion held during the week of the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.
26 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca said it was important for all members of the community to feel welcome at motorsport events. “We are proud to sign up to the Rainbow Sporting Alliance and the Proud2Play initiative,” Arocca said. “In our recent member survey, our members emphasised to us that we use our position as the governing body to ensure the sport remains inclusive and welcoming for all. “This partnership is an important step that is part of our ongoing work in the diversity and inclusion space. Motorsport is for everyone and without question, it needs to be both safe and inclusive.” Proud2Play CEO Christine Granger thanked Motorsport Australia and the wider motorsport community for its support.
"It is with great pleasure that we welcome Motorsport Australia to the Rainbow Sports Alliance,” Granger said. “To be able to support Motorsport Australia on their journey to creating safe and inclusive spaces across their sport is something we very much look forward to. “There is a great appetite in the community for this partnership as was shown by the interest in our F1 event. We look forward to growing this work and the opportunities it brings for our communities.”
For more information, head to www.proud2play.org.au.
Confidence no matter what’s around the bend with your community insurance broker and consultant
Talk to us about: Race Track Whole Packages
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.
Find out more.
sport.ajg.com.au
Get in touch with the Gallagher team.
sport@ajg.com.au Terry Berryman 07 3367 5010
Shaun Sirbadhoo 0435 223 656 shaun.sirbadhoo@ajg.com.au
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co (Aus) Limited. AFSL 238812. Cover is subject to the Policy terms and conditions. You should consider if the insurance is suitable for you and read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and our Financial Services Guide (FSG) before making your decision to acquire insurance. These are available on request or at sport. ajg.com.au. REF2782-1020-1.1
2022
ARC RETURNS TO WA WITH A BANG The RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship's return to Western Australia after three years was marked in style as Harry Bates and John McCarthy continued their impressive winning streak. With the event spread over two heats, a healthy entry list of 68 crews battled it out over 182 competitive kilometres across 17 stages, which included four Super Special Stages in Bunbury and the EROAD Power Stage on Sunday afternoon. Bates and McCarthy took out top honours in the first heat thanks to eight stage wins and fuel pump issues to Eli Evans and Adam Wright's Mini Cooper AP4, who up until their mechanical dramas early on Saturday morning, were leading the rally. 28 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
The reigning champions went on to dominate the field after Evans’ withdrawal and lead Neal Bates Motorsport teammates Richie Dalton and Dale Moscatt by two minutes.
Rounding out the Heat's outright top three was another Toyota Yaris AP4 in Lewis Bates and Anthony McLoughlin. “A massive thanks to the team. Had tough preparation for this one but really happy to get the Heat win to start the weekend," Harry said. “The stages here in WA are addictive and they ask you try harder the whole time because they are so much fun. And that’s what I did this afternoon." West Australian Max McRae and Max Kierans had a great heat with fifth
Photo: Dakar Press Team Australia
outright and wins in the the White Wolf Constructions ARC Production Cup win and the Motorsport Australia WA Rally Championship. Taking out the heat win for the Shamrock Haulage ARC 2WD Cup was Gary Mills and Mitch Gray, while Molly Spalding and Douglas Johnson were victorious in the Glendun ARC Junior Cup.
Photos: Dakar Press Team Australia
On Sunday, the action continued and although drama struck the reigning champions early on Sunday morning, which resulted with an 80-second penalty, before a tyre puncture saw them lose even more time on the opening stage, Harry still managed to power through the day's five stages and finish third - which was enough to win the rally outright. “The penalties were out of our control and all we could do was drive as hard as we could and try to overtake a few people, and we ended up getting third for the Heat," Harry added. “It’s nice to know that we have the pace when we need it and I can turn it on when I have to. “It was a long, tough and different rally in the west but they were great roads. A massive thanks must be said to the organisers and officials who have been incredible all weekend.” Taking out second heat honours and second for the overall round was Lewis and McLoughlin, with the
younger Bates brother thrilled to win a heat for the first time in his career. “It was our first ever ARC heat win today so it was really exciting’” Lewis said.
“It’s nice to know that we have the pace when we need it and I can turn it on when I have to.” “We actually thought we had a chance of winning the event outright this morning when Harry had his problems, but he did a great job in recovering and getting the victory, so it wasn’t to be just yet, but our time is coming." With Dalton and Moscatt finished second in the second heat, it earned the Irishman his first ever outright podium.
In the White Wolf Constructions ARC Production Cup, Ronnie Bustard and Larisa Biggar took out the win, beating Caoimhin MacGhirr and Noah Humble by one minute and 45 seconds. Rounding out the class podium was debutant Alex Rullo and Steve Glenney. It was a thrilling battle for heat honours in the Shamrock Haulage ARC 2WD Cup with Aiden Peterson and Mitchell Newton edging out Heat One winner Garry Mills and Mitch Gray. The 2WD Cup wasn’t the only close encounter Peterson had during the day, with the Daihatsu Charade driver winning the Glendun ARC Cup Heat over Molly Spalding and Douglas Johnson by just 10 seconds, however Spalding ended up winning the weekend overall. Glenn Alcorn and Jonathan Charlesson won for the ARC Classic Cup both heats.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 29
Photo: Wishart Media
RALLY LAUNCESTON BACK ON THE NATIONAL STAGE From one returning event on the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (ARC) calendar to another – Tasmania finally gets its chance to host the championship for the first time since 2019. Boasting some of the most popular rally roads in all of Australia, the Shannons Rally Launceston will look a little different from year’s past but will still hold many of its traditional features. Taking place towards the end of June, the sprint rally will take place over two days, like the Make Smoking History Forest Rally the event will
be split in two heats with crews to battle it out for points in each. The event will be made up of 195 competitive kilometres spread over 13 special stages, which will be kicked off on the Friday night by the Rally Show in the town’s Civic Square.
which will include a single pass of the Myrtle Bank West Stage that will act as the EROAD Power Stage. Running in conjunction with the ARC will be the Dunlop Motorsport Australia Rally Championship, and while state level crews will be contesting
The official action then begins on the Saturday, where crews will complete 111 competitive kilometres over six stages with four of them to be over 20 kilometres. The rally resumes on Sunday with a further seven stages and the remaining 84 competitive kilometres,
30 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ Photo: Angryman Photography
Photo: Angryman Photography
Photo: Dakar Press Team Australia
the majority of the event, they will conclude at the 12th stage – making their total run at 191 kilometres. A number of the top contenders are already entered with Harry Bates, Lewis Bates and Richie Dalton leading the charge, while youngsters Troy Dowell and Taylor Gill will attempt to square up to the big guns – the latter of which makes his return after missing Western Australia.
“I am excited as it’s my first time there and the team is all excited to get down to Tas.” Carey said.
“I am excited as it’s my first time there and the team is all excited to get down to Tas.”
Queenslander Cahal Carey has also put his entry in early and like some of the younger crews, it will be his first time in Tasmania.
“At this point, my aim will be to get to the finish line as I haven’t had the best of finishes in the opening two rounds. “I know absolutely nothing and it’s all new, so the plan will be to just finish the event but it will be a challenge as I don’t know anything.
“I have heard a few things about it and how nice it is but I know the one thing I won’t be looking forward to is the cold.” In addition to the national competitors, there will be a few local stars there including Eddie Maguire and Bodie Reading.
There will be plenty of spectator points throughout the weekend, while those who can’t make it can tune into 7Plus for the live broadcast of the EROAD Power Stage and a 60-minute event highlights show in the weeks after. Fans unable to attend the event will also be able to keep up to date with the live results and news via the ARC Live Blog. The Shannons Rally Launceston will take place in around the forests of Launceston on 24-26 June.
Click here for more information on the Shannons Rally Launceston.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 31
MICHELIN BACKING PORSCHE’S RISING STARS Tyre manufacturer Michelin will again support this year’s rising stars across both Porsche national categories.
are looking forward to continuing this support for the next batch of talented athletes coming through.
Alongside Michelin’s support for Porsche’s successful junior development program, as part of the global Porsche ‘pyramid’, Michelin will again take on the naming rights partnership for the Porsche Sprint Challenge Australia.
Michelin Australia Marketing Manager Oceania Hugo De-Boischevalier said Porsche’s racing categories in Australia had repeatedly showcased the marque’s ability to develop young drivers.
“It’s fantastic to have our long term partner in Michelin join with us again and provide the crucial support needed for young talented athletes within this country,”
The Porsche Junior Development Programme will offer eligible young drivers from the Porsche Paynter Dixon Carrera Cup Australia Championship and Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge Series mentorship, support and training from the country’s leading sports professionals and coaches, as well as the opportunity to win their share of the $300,000 prize pool on offer.
Porsche Cars Australia Motorsport Manager Barry Hay said the programs had proven a great success and thanked Michelin for their involvement in the program. “It’s fantastic to have our long term partner in Michelin join with us again and provide the crucial support needed for young talented athletes within this country,” Hay said. “Both Michelin and Porsche are aligned in our passion for developing young athletes both on and off the track, which we have had great success in the past, and we 32 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
“Porsche continues to be the go-to championship for drivers who are looking to further their career, either locally or internationally,” DeBoischevalier said.
“The Junior Program is like no-other in terms of support and development from the Porsche team; with young drivers given the fantastic opportunity to round out their skills both on and off-track. “There is a genuine community feel within the whole Porsche pit lane, that has a strong alignment to our own values of respect, performance and helping people achieve their goals. Michelin Australia are excited to be supporting the Juniors again in 2022 and wish all the teams a successful season ahead.” The 2022 prize pool sees the top three Junior drivers from each Category, receive a set of Michelin competition tyres every round, while the top placed Junior driver at each round will also receive a complimentary entry for the round.
The Michelin Junior Champion - which will be awarded to the leading point scorer after round 6 of the 2022 Porsche Paynter Dixon Carrera Cup Australia season in August 2022 - will receive a trip to Germany to attend the Porsche Motorsport Night of Champions Dinner in December 2022. The main prize for the Michelin Junior drivers is to be nominated to attend the global Porsche Motorsport Junior Shootout to represent the Carrera Cup Australia.
2022 PORSCHE MICHELIN JUNIOR PROGRAMME DRIVERS PORSCHE PAYNTER DIXON CARRERA CUP AUSTRALIA Max Vidau – TekworkX Angelo Mouzouris – Sonic Harri Jones – McElrea Racing Christian Pancione – McElrea Racing Ryan Suhle – SP Tools/EBM Simon Fallon – Sonic Jackson Walls – McElrea Racing Callum Hedge – Team Porsche NZ/EBM Bayley Hall – McElrea Racing
PORSCHE MICHELIN SPRINT CHALLENGE Madeline Stewart – Team Porsche NZ Lachlan Bloxsom – McElrea Racing Tom Sargent – CHE Racing Aron Shields – McElrea Racing Ollie Shannon – Tigani Motorsport Courtney Prince – Sonic Ryan Wood – EBM
OFFICIAL PARTNER
MEMBER REWARDS
GET RACE READY WITH MOTUM SIMULATION Motum Southbank is open for test drives and driver training. Strap yourself into the MP6 Motorsport Motion Simulator to tune up for the start of the racing season or your next track day.
As used by leading Supercar team Walkinshaw Andretti United, Motum’s patented Motorsport True Motion™ Simulator technology delivers 6DOF as a complete motion profile in a fully immersive VR environment, excelling in peak and sustained G-forces to generate intuitive and accurate motion cues. In addition to its motion offering, Motum provides highly engineered static simulators for motorsport, sim racing, and entertainment.
www.motumsimulation.com 29 Miles Street, Southbank, Vic, 3006 +61 407 898 606 sales@motumsimulation.com
Photos: Edge Photographics
SYDNEY WELCOMES SUPER SHANNONS SHOW The Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships returned in May with a massive schedule of action having taken place over the weekend. A crowd of more than 16,000 attended the event over the course of the three days to watch the eight categories put a show under both the blue skies and spectacular lights that Sydney Motorsport Park has to offer. On track, there was plenty of drama within each category as a number of debutants shined in their respective categories, while old heads continued to dominate their fields.
34 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
One of those was John Bowe, who claimed top honours in the Gulf Western Oil Touring Car Masters – the experienced campaigner winning multiple races across the weekend. Bowe wasn’t the only one to have the edge over the rest of his competition throughout the race meeting, with Drew, Aaren and Wayne Russell clean sweeping the Australian Production Cars, Ryan Wood winning multiple races in the Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge Australia and Joey Mawson taking out top honours in the S5000s. Chris Perini (Radicals) and John Paul Drake (Prototypes) both had strong
individual days that helped them secure round wins, while a problem to Nathan Herne allowed Owen Kelly to secure the Trans Am outright win. As always, there were a range of different winners in the Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series, but it was race three winner Nathan Morcom who took out the most points for the weekend. The next round for the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships will be this month at Phillip Island.
RADICAL CUP AUSTRALIA 1. 2. 3.
Chris Perini Peter Paddon/Peter Carr Elliott Schutte
AUSTRALIAN PRODUCTION CARS 1. 2. 3.
Drew Russell/Aaren Russell/ Wayne Russell Beric Lynton/Tim Leahey Anthony Soole/Adam Wright
GULF WESTERN OIL TOURING CAR MASTERS PRO MASTERS 1. 2. 3.
John Bowe Ryan Hansford Cameron McConville
PRO AM 1. 2. 3.
Cameron Tilley Jamie Tilley Gerard McLeod
TURTLE WAX TRANS AM SERIES 1. 2. 3.
Owen Kelly Ben Grice Zach Bates
PORSCHE MICHELIN SPRINT CHALLENGE AUSTRALIA 1. 2. 3.
Ryan Wood Thomas Sargent Courtney Prince
GC MARINE AUSTRALIAN PROTOTYPE SERIES
S5000 AUSTRALIAN DRIVERS CHAMPIONSHIP
SUPERCHEAP AUTO TCR AUSTRALIA SERIES
1. 2. 3.
1. 2. 3.
1. 2. 3.
John-Paul Drake Ricky Capo Ryan Godfrey
Joey Mawson Aaron Cameron Tim Macrow
Nathan Morcom Jordan Cox Josh Buchan
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 35
For the second time in 2022, the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships will take over the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. Later this month, the famous circuit by the ocean will host a number of national categories for another edition of the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships. There will be multiple categories at the event this time around who weren’t there in March, most notably the Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge
Australia Series, which only got its 2022 season underway last month. It was a similar story for the GC Marine Australian Prototype Series, who started the season late, however both categories put on a show at Sydney Motorsport Park and both will once again want to continue their momentum on the Island. Joining both national competitions from Sydney will be the Australian Production Cars and the category is likely to enjoy a number of endurance races again across the weekend. Rounding out the categories are two making their first appearances in the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships for 2022 - the MARC Cars Australia and the Porsche 944 Challenge, the latter of which has held multiple rounds on the Shannons bills in years past. The event will be live streamed throughout the weekend with both details on the broadcast and the final racing schedule to be released closer to the event.
36 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
Tickets for the event are currently on sale with Friday’s action to be free for all, while children 15 or under can get in for free for the rest of the weekend. The Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships second event at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit will take place on 24-26 June.
Tickets for the second visit to Phillip Island are available here.
Photos: Speed Shots Photography
SHANNONS READY FOR ISLAND SEQUEL
Exclusive MotorSport Australia Member offer Purchase any product online & enter the draw TO WIN A
Tool Box! Offer valid on ALL purchases between June 1 - July 31, 2022
valued at $800 Use code 'MS10' at the checkout
Fast, Australia-wide Shipping Pick Up Available in South Australia
1800 560 978 | caredistributors.com.au
Photos: Edge Photographics
WATERS BREAKS 2022 SUPER DROUGHT Cam Waters finally claimed a few minor honours in his long battle with Shane van Gisbergen with the Victorian winning two races at last month’s Pizza Hut Winton Supersprint.
The current championship leader has had the edge over Waters in recent times, however Waters was able to hold him off twice, something he hasn’t been able to do for quite some time and claim the much-needed victories. Starting off with the first race of the weekend, van Gisbergen picked up where he left off and claimed pole
38 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
position in a fierce battle with Waters, but the latter got him off the line.
From then on, Waters defended his position at every opportunity and picked up his first race win of the season, crossing the finish just less than half a second faster than van Gisbergen. The Tickford Racing star’s speed was again on show on the second day of the event as he picked up pole position for both races. Unfortunately for Waters, it was role reversal as van Gisbergen ended up taking out the victory having started in second place.
However, not to be deterred, Waters bounced back in style for the round’s final race and converted his pole position to a second race win – the
Photos: Edge Photographics
first time he had ever won multiple races in a race weekend for his career.
in a new team with Brad Jones Racing’s Andre Heimgartner.
Having again beaten van Gisbergen by less than half a second, it was a special moment for Waters, who was thrilled in the manner for which he won.
The Repco Supercars Championship continues this month at Hidden Valley Raceway for the prestigious Darwin Triple Crown on 18-19 June.
"It makes you feel like you’ve actually earned it if you’re racing Shane,” Waters said. "And you’re not lucked in by someone else running off the road. "If you can win that way, it’s a little bit more special." Another star performer for the weekend was David Reynolds, whose move to Grove racing continues to pay dividends – the Victorian securing two podiums in the weekend’s opening two races. Rounding out the podium for the final race was another driver
CHAMPIONSHIP TOP 10 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Shane van Gisbergen - 1376 Anton De Pasquale -1095 Cam Waters - 1043 Will Davison - 1018 David Reynolds - 966 Chaz Mostert - 947 Broc Feeney - 887 Brodie Kostecki - 865 Tim Slade - 767 James Courtney - 754
PIZZA HUT WINTON SUPERSPRINT RACE 13 1. 2. 3.
Cam Waters Shane van Gisbergen David Reynolds
RACE 14 1. 2. 3.
Shane van Gisbergen Cam Waters David Reynolds
RACE 15 1. 2. 3.
Cam Waters Shane van Gisbergen Andre Heimgartner
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 39
QUEENSLAND RACEWAY REFRESHED AND READY Queensland Raceway will see more Motorsport Australia events at the venue this year after the circuit received its track licence. Having been taken over by Tony Quinn last year, the businessman has been hard at work renovating the Ipswich-based circuit to get it to a high-standard, including installing appropriate safety features to obtain the Motorsport Australia licence.
“We are thrilled to welcome back Motorsport Australia events to this important venue” From building new infrastructure, creating a new logo and even renovating the restrooms, Quinn has done a complete makeover of the circuit since taking over the lease, management, and operation of the circuit. Queensland Raceway is now ready to host local, state and national events, with the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships to head there in August and the Repco Supercars Championship a potential to return in 2023. Having visited the circuit to see the new changes with Motorsport Australia’s Director of Motorsport & Commercial Operations Michael Smith and Division Manager of Safety & Race Operations David Stuart, Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca was left highly impressed with the changes.
40 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
“Michael Smith, David Stuart and I spent the day with Tony Quinn and Neil Lewis touring the very impressive new facilities at Queensland Raceway, as well as officially handing over their Motorsport Australia track licence,” Arocca said. “In order to get that track licence, the venue has undergone significant improvements to its safety standards, including installing the appropriate safety barriers where required. The track now meets the relevant criteria for its licence and we are thrilled to welcome back Motorsport Australia events to this important venue. “Tony, Neil and the entire team at Queensland Raceway deserve a lot of praise for what they have done and are planning for the venue, which will be a significant benefit to motorsport in Queensland. “For the competitors and spectators, I have seen firsthand that the facilities have been significantly improved and going to Queensland Raceway for an event will now certainly be a much more enjoyable experience, with modern, clean and safe facilities that you’d expect at a motorsport venue. The new skid pan is a great addition for junior development and driver training.
Motorsport Australia affiliated clubs and organisations based in Queensland are being encouraged to start looking at running events at the new-look circuit, with the venue eager to chat with all clubs.
“We’ll also be encouraging our Queensland based Motorsport Australia clubs to reach out to Tony and Neil and consider running more of their events at QR into the future – it’s a terrific option for those clubs based in Brisbane, Ipswich and the surrounding areas.
The first official national event to be held will be the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships on 5-7 August.
“We can’t wait to see the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships at the venue in August as well, for what will be a grand return to Queensland.”
Queensland Raceway will be hosting an open day on 2 July where people will get an opportunity to view the new renovations for themselves.
Click here for tickets to the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships at Queensland Raceway.
TARGA STYLE TARMAC RALLY UPDATE The Motorsport Australia Board made the decision in May to suspend issuing permits for any Targa style tarmac rally event.
family during this tragic time and will remain on hand to support them, as well as the wider motorsport community,” Arocca said.
The suspension follows the tragic death of a competitor during the 2022 TARGA Tasmania.
“While many competitors acknowledge that motorsport is dangerous, we cannot accept that death is an outcome of competition as has been suggested to us.
The Motorsport Australia Board, which met earlier today, has also determined a Targa Review Panel will be appointed to investigate the latest incident and make further recommendations on the future of Targa style tarmac rallies. The Review Panel will be Chaired by Garry Connelly AM, while Matthew Selley and Neal Bates will also be members. The new Motorsport Australia Risk and Safety Committee, which was established late last year, will consider the Review Panel’s report and assist the Board in final decisionmaking on all relevant issues. Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca said the Board had made a difficult decision but was left with little choice given the current circumstances. “First and foremost, we again extend our sympathies to the Seymour
“There are far-reaching consequences following such incidents, whether it be for the first responders who attend, the volunteer officials that are part of the event or witness these incidents, as well as the enormous impact on family and friends. “There are also insurance and legal ramifications that impact the wider sport when incidents such as this occur. There are flow on effects that follow incidents such as these, widely impacting all aspects of motorsport, including licence costs and permit fees for all disciplines. “As the peak governing body for four-wheeled motorsport in this country, Motorsport Australia must do everything it can to prevent these tragic incidents, and this
will often mean having to make difficult decisions for the safety and sustainability of our sport. “At this current time, we are not in a position to establish the cause of this recent incident, and this may take some time. Accordingly, the Board has determined that a Review Panel will be appointed to investigate the cause of the incident and to conduct a wider review of this form of competition. Any recommendations will then be considered by the Board for implementation on a more permanent basis. “We have spoken to key event organisers and informed them of this decision, and while they are understandably disappointed, we will continue to liaise with them as this process continues.” The Board also confirmed that Motorsport Australia would continue to allow tour events to be permitted, subject to a targeted risk assessment. Any tour event must follow all road rules and signs that apply on a route, even if the road is closed for the event.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 41
MEMBER FORUM REPLAY AVAILABLE The Motorsport Australia Membership Forum was held last month with a large portion of members tuning in.
As part of the forum, members got a chance to ask questions and learn more about Motorsport Australia's 2021 financial results. The full replay of the Member Forum is available to be watched anytime. Motorsport Australia welcome's questions at any time of the year, any queries or feedback can be directed to the governing body via email or phone. Contact details can be found at motorsport.org.au/about/contact
42 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
Click here to watch the replay of the 2022 Motorsport Australia Membership Forum.
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 or visit the website at motorsport.org.au Email memberservices@motorsport.org.au
l Hit 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!
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 43
THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE PARTNERS
THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT THROUGH THE AUSTRALIAN SPORT COMMISSION RECOGNISES MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA TO DEVELOP MOTORSPORT IN AUSTRALIA