Motorsport Australia Speed Read - March 2021 by Motorsport Australia

SPEED READ M A R C H

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MARCH MONTH OF CELEBRATION From state and media awards to International Women's Day, March's Speed Read shines a light on the many wonderful and inspirational people who make this sport great.

RENAULT LIFE A DREAM FOR ASPIRING BRIGGS

MARCH UPCOMING STATE EVENTS

LILLIE AND GLENNEY TARGA GIANT KILLERS

She may not be known to many people in the Australian motorsport community, but Briggs is a name that Australians should remember for the future.

Check out the upcoming club and state events happening all around the country in the March.

The Motorsport Australia Targa Championship’s first event for 2021 took place with Dean Lillie and Steve Glenney causing a major upset at the Targa High Country.

M O T O R S P O R T . O R G . A U

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CONTENTS 4

What's on in March?

Women making waves in motorsport

Motorsport Australia to help kids get active

Victorian Government to help state performers

Motorsport Australia recognises states’ best

Hard work key in Nicholson's rise up the ranks

Renault life a dream for aspiring Briggs

Girls on Track to open 2021 season in March

Pivotal IT group named tech partner for 2021

Raising funds for bushfire victims

Motorsport Australia App available for download

RSEA Safety steps up its support

2020 Media awarded for rising above challenges

Improving motorsport facilities across Victoria

Speed and Auto Tests on for 2021

Lillie and Glenney Targa giant killers

Record breaking St George 399 to start historic AORC

SXS Rainbow ready for launch

George Woods Rally hones local talent

Small break between wins for Poulier

Hyundai to lead the Shannons Championships field

Shannons opener moves to March

Queensland added to ARC calendar

Coffs Coast to host world class rally action

ARC train first stop: Canberra

Shane does the double in Bathurst

Oliver too strong in Highclere Hillclimb

COVER PHOTO

Motorsport Australia Photograph of the Year awarded to Andrew Eaton from Dakar Press Team Australia Photo: Angryman 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

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WHAT'S ON IN

MARCH? NEW SOUTH WALES AND ACT

7 March: Come and Try Gravel KhanaX 7 March: Dad and Dave Khanacross 7 March: R2 NSW Hill Climb Championships 7 March: March State Motorkhana 6 March: Blue Range Rallysprint 6 March: R1 NSW Hill Climb Championships 11 March: Whiteline Tarmac Rallysprint Series 2020/21 13 March: 2021 National Patios ACT Khanacross Series - R1 13 March: LBMCCC Motorkhana R1 14 March: Carwash 2380 Gravel Motorkhana 14 March: Impreza WRX Club Motorkhana Championship R1 14 March: FIAT Club Motorkhana R1 14 March: Magical March Khanacross 14 March: Motorkhana #2 14 March: Grip N Slip Motorkhana 14 March: Wombats Diggings NSW Khanacross 20 March: Bombala Show - LCCC Display 20 March: Race Course Khanacross 20-21 March: DSCC 2021Autocross and Khanacross R2 20-21 March: Autumn Historic Festival 21 March: Motorkhana 26-28 March: 2021 Netier National Capital Rally 27 March: Motorsport Australia NSW Motor Race Championship R2 27 March: Ray Vesty Memorial 28 March: MG Car Club Canberra Multi Club Motorkhana

Photo: ZandtOgraphy

ACT: Blue Range Rallysprint The Light Car Club of Canberra host the Blue Range Rallysprint once again with 27 entries expected to attend. Acting as the first round of the ACT Regional Rally Series, spectators are in for an exciting 11 hours of motorsport.

QUEENSLAND

6-7 March: Collie Motorplex Sprint 6-7 March: Mt Cotton Hillclimb Series R1 13-14 March: FNQ R2 Bitumen Khanacross 13 March: Collie Motorplex Icebreaker Race and Regularity 14 March: R1 Motorkhana/Khanacross 19-21 March: Cobb & Co Hotel St George 399 21 March: HSCCQ Motorkhana 22 March: R2 2021 Club Championship 23 March: Open Sprint R2 26-28 March: 2021 Queensland Circuit Racing State Championship R1 27-28 March: FNQ R1 Gravel Khanacross 27 March: Roo Systems Australia Manumbar Rally - QRC 1 28 March: GSCC Inc. Hillclimb Series R1 28 March: Mount Stuart Hillclimb Series R1

Photo: Peter Buchanan QLD: 2021 Queensland Circuit Racing State Championship R1 From the extremely popular Queensland Hyundai X3 Circuit Excel Racing Series to the high octaine Improved Production cars, the Motorsport Australia Queensland Circuit Racing Championship at Morgan Park will have plenty of exciting action for fans.

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

SOUTH AUSTRALIA AND NORTHERN TERRITORY

6 March: R6 2020/21 Mud Racing Season 7 March: Alice City Tyrepower Khanacross R1 7 March: SDMA Club Hillclimb 7 March: Kangaroo Island Motorsport event 12 March: 2021 NT Motorkhana Championship R1 13 March: SEAC Motorkhana Series 2021 R1 13 March: Motorsport Australia SCCSA 2021 State Motor Racing Championship Series R1 14 March: MGEC Hillclimb Challenge 14 March: Motorsport Australia South Australian Motorkhana Championship 2021 R1 20-21 March: SEAC Super Series R1 24-27 March: Shannons Adelaide Rally 2020 27 March: SCCSA Come and Try 1 28 March: Winter Cup 1

Photo: Show N Go Photography VIC: Rainbow Rises 240 With the BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship to head to Rainbow in August, the Rainbow Rises 240 acts as the perfect dress rehearsal for the national round, with the the shortened event running the same course.

TASMANIA

6 March: CMI Supersprints- Baskerville 6 March: Cambridge Sprint 20 March: Trowutta Hillclimb 20 March: R2 2021 Motor Sports Club of Tasmania Khanacross Series 28 March: Tasmanian Circuit Racing Championship R2

WESTERN AUSTRALIA Photo: Adelaide Rally SA: Shannons Adelaide Rally 2020 Rescheduled to March 2021, the four-day event will be expecting more than 300 entries to do battle across 34 challenging stages, the longest of which is 18km. On top of the racing action will be a number of activations for fans, including the Amadio Wines Gouger Street Party.

Photo: Glenda Reid TAS: CMI Supersprints - Baskerville When Club Motori Italia hosted the Baskerville Supersprint this time last year, more than 30 drivers turned up and only one tenth of a second separated the top three. With a lack of motorsport occuring in 2020, the club is certain to see similar, if not better, numbers this time.

Photo: Drift Images

6 March: Speed Event Series Round 2 7 March: WRX Club WA Midvale Speed Dome Sprint 17 March: Summer Autocross Series R5 18 March: Infinite Time Attack 20 March: Targa South West 21 March: State Motorkhana R1

VICTORIA

5-7 March: Manning Valley Cranes Club Championship 5-7 March: 32nd Phillip Island Classic Festival of Motorsport 6-7 March: Come and Try Shepperton Cup Challenge R1 6-7 March: Rainbow Rises 240 6 March: METEC Come N Try day 7 March: Interclub Challenge R1 7 March: Grass N Furious 7 March: Avalon Come and Try Day 8 March: Shannons International Women’s Day Festival Race Chix Motorsport Come and Try Day 12 March: Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships R1 13 March: MMSC Autocross 14 March: 2021 Victorian Motorkhana Championship R3 and 2021 Group5 Non Speed Series R2 14 March: GCC Multiclub Hill Climb 14 March: METEC Motorkhana - Club Competition Event #3 18-21 March: Sandown Supersprint 20 March: 2021 Border Oils & Batteries Mitta Mountain Rally 21 March: Avalon Khanacross R1 21 March: BCC Khanacross and Motorkhana 27 March: GOBRA Short Course 27 March: Come and Try Day/Sprint 27-28 March: Victorian State Circuit Racing Championships R2 27-28 March: 2021 Victorian Hillclimb Championship R3 27 March: The Lorraine Boehme Memorial 37th Eddington Sprints 28 March: Multiclub Khanacross 28 March: Sandown Autumn Sprint

WA: Targa South West The picturesque regions of Manjimup, Pemberton and Northcliffe host the 2021 Targa South West with crews to tackle 16 stages across one day of non stop tarmac rally action.

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WOMEN MAKING WAVES IN MOTORSPORT In early March, Motorsport Australia will celebrate International Women’s Day by sharing the stories of some of the women who play a vital role in Australian motorsport. From drivers and officials to team managers and photographers, women with different amounts of experience from all walks of life share their stories about the impact they have on the sport.

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COURTNEY TYLER TE AM MANAGER, JAM M OTO RSP O RT Photo: The Advertiser

“I think Motorsport Australia and other businesses are making the push for women and equality. “We have a long way to go, but it’s also come a long way over the years. “I think in any situation, you have to back yourself and it is hard for women to have that confidence, but I feel it comes with experience. “I think a big thing for women, especially young women coming through, is to get a mentor to try and help them with that confidence. I struggled when I first got into the sport – but through multiple mentors, I worked my way through it.”

Photo: Street to Screen Media

HOLLY ESPRAY

CIRCUIT R ACER, T O Y O TA G A Z O O R A C I N G AUSTR ALIA 86 SERIES “For me, it’s not about being a woman in motorsport, it’s about being a racer. It inspires me to keep going and I like to show people what I am capable of. “In karting I was one of three, but now that I have been travelling around the country more, I have been seeing more women competing which is great. “It’s cool to be able to inspire other girls, but I just feel I am another racer.” MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 7

KELSEY BRANFORD

V I C E P R E S I D E N T, FINKE DESERT R ACE I N C O R P O R AT E D COMMIT TEE “I think sports are now starting to recognise that they’re missing out on half the population when they don’t actively try to engage women in their sport. “I think motorsport is getting better. “We have seen some really good women initiatives coming out of Motorsport Australia. If there is a continuation of that and young girls get involved, then there is no end as to what motorsport can become.”

REBECCA THOMPSON

M OTO RSP O RT AUS TR ALIA PH OTO GR APHER , RE V VED PH OTO GR APHY F O UND ER “You have to be hard faced and take everything with a grain of salt because being the only woman working around men can be daunting sometimes. “With that said, I have never had anyone discriminate against me and that’s a great side of motorsport. “I have just felt like I can do this. I am out there and I know I can do it. It’s the passion I have that has gotten me through it. "For quite some time it was only me, but I am hopeful of seeing more women In the media centre in the next few years because I know there are lots of women who are capable of taking photos just as good as anyone.”

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Photo: Dutch Photo Agency

SHERIDAN BUDSWORTH TA S M A N I A N H I L L CLIMB R ACER

“It’s taken a while to have that belief in myself that I know what I am doing. “Over the past few years a lot of people have been coming up and telling me that they come to watch hill climbs because of me. I think it's good to be a woman in that position. It would give a lot of younger girls a feeling that they can do it too. “Obviously I get that attention not because I am a woman, but because I am a competitor and a contender for outright wins. “It just feels amazing to be considered a role model for young people.”

TAYLA FLANNERY

O FFI CIAL – WAKEFIELD PA RK R ACE CO N T R O L “I feel like more women are becoming officials and want to get involved because people are realising that women are just as capable of doing jobs just as well as men. “When I first started, there weren't as many women, but since I joined, we have been getting more and more. “Being an official is definitely a great time and women who have a passion for motorsport should join because no one is going to turn you back. Everyone is really welcoming and it’s something I highly recommend.”

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MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA TO HELP KIDS GET ACTIVE Young Victorian Motorsport Australia members will have access to a special Government grant. With applications being accepted from 1 March, Get Active Kids Voucher program is open to individuals aged between four and 18 or a family who is experiencing financial hardship as a result of unforeseen circumstances. The program will supply eligible applicants with $200 worth of reimbursements for specific expenses required to participate in their chosen activities or sports programs, including registration, uniforms and new or used equipment costs. There are 100,000 vouchers available, with the program running from March 2021 to April 2022. The first round of applications are being accepted until 11 April 2021.

For more information on how to apply for the Get Active Kids Voucher, click here.

VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT TO HELP STATE PERFORMERS Applications for Athlete Pathway Grants Program are now open with two categories of grants available to Victorian teams and individuals. Open to organisations recognised by Sport and Recreation Victoria or Victorian Sport and Recreation clubs, Motorsport Australia affiliated Victorian clubs are eligible to apply and receive the grants. Those applying as a state representative (category 1) can apply for up to $6000 worth of assistance, while those applying on behalf of emerging athletes or coaches and officials (category 2) can apply for grants up to $2000 The successful applicants can receive financial assistance for a number of reasons, including travel and accommodation costs, which help them participate in the sport. Interested applicants have until 6 April, 2021 to apply for the first two rounds of the grant with the successful individuals and teams to be notified by May.

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The following athlete development items have been included into this round only: • Competition entry and registration fees • Online training/ development programs • Venue hire fees • State representation fees for training camps and/or competitions • Club membership fees with affiliated sport • Small equipment purchases to enable athlete to keep training • Specialist coach training fees • Sports psychologist, medical and physiotherapy fees • Sports nutrition courses.

Click here for more information on the Athlete Pathway Grants Program.

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Northern Territory's Service Award recipient, Leonie Kerr Photo: Tim Nicol

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA RECOGNISES STATES’ BEST

Motorsport Australia was pleased to confirm the recipients of multiple awards last month as part of the 2020 Motorsport Australia State Awards season. Most 2020 awards ceremonies did not take place this year as a result of the changing restrictions surrounding gathering numbers and COVID-19, however individuals across all states were still acknowledged for their efforts last year, as well as their contributions to the sport as a whole. While not every award usually presented at the gala dinners was announced given a lack of events in 2020, three of the major categories in the Official of the Year, Service Stars and Service Awards were all presented. Two people were honoured as West Australian Official of the Year with Lynn and Ross Oxwell sharing the award having done so much for rallying in the state for many years. The Oxwells weren’t the only rally associated recipients of the Official of the Year award, as

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MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SERVICE AWARD New South Wales Andrew Collier John Young Nicholas Nikiforoff David Healy Olive Robinson, Nicholas Nikiforoff, David Healy and Bob Hockley, all officials of the Australian Racing Drivers' Club Photo: Australian Racing Drivers' Club

Northern Territory Steven Coyte Phillip and Leonie Kerr Chris and Deb McCormack Queensland John Keen Clay Weston Jon Siddins Robert John Careless Stephen Davies South Australia Louise Smith Paul Karamanov Tony Aloi Cathy and Steve Croci William 'Bill' Hobbs

Cathy and Steve Croci, Motorsport Australia Service Award recipients Photo: Revved Photography

OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR New South Wales Olive Robinson South Australia Kevin Raedel Tasmania Matthew von Bertouch Victoria Nicholas Scarcella Western Australia Lynn and Ross Oxwell

RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship regular and South Eastern Automobile Club President Kevin Raedel took out the South Australian official top gong. Another outstanding performer and key figure for their local club was Victorian Official of the Year, Nicholas Scarcella. A pivotal member of the Phillip Island Auto Racing Club, the club Vice President went above and beyond in the organisation's return to racing, working hard to get motorsport back on track at the Island in November. As for the NSW Official of the Year, Olive Robinson was recognised after more than 36 years serving her club and its motorsport events of all levels. Having been on the New South Wales Panel for the past 10 years, the always enthusiastic and reliable Robinson has also spent time recently doing administration work.

The final official to be recognised as the standout in 2020 was Tasmania’s Matthew von Bertouch. A key member of the Rally Tasmania organising ream and being primarily responsible for the setting of the course, von Bertouch was also a vital administrator for the Motor Sports Club of Tasmania. Queensland was the only state to hold an informal awards night this year and recognised the 12 state champions from circuit and hill climbs series. The state also awarded five service awards and one service star. The Northern Territory awarded five individuals with service awards and one service star for their contributions to motorsport. Motorsport Australia President Andrew Fraser congratulated all the state award recipients in what was a challenging year.

Victoria Brendon Bye Chris Clark Matthew Balcombe

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SERVICE STAR New South Wales Robert Hockley Northern Territory Jake Kroonstuiver Queensland Ian Mayberry Victoria Hannah Holloway

“It’s been said many times before but last year was extremely difficult on many fronts and there were plenty of individuals around the country who rolled up their sleeves and carried on with the job at hand,” Fraser said. “So honouring these State Officials of the Year is due recognition for their outstanding efforts and something they should all be immensely proud of. “As for all the Service Award and Service Star recipients, motorsport would not be in the position that it is if it wasn’t for the many passionate officials, administrators and members who contribute so much to the sport. “So on behalf of Motorsport Australia, I would like to congratulate all state Officials of the Year, Service Star and Service Award winners for 2020.”

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HARD WORK KEY IN NICHOLSON'S RISE UP THE RANKS Nadine Armstrong and Motorsport Australia official Jessica Nicholson have shared an interesting insight into the world of officials through the latest edition of the online FIA Girls On Track program, presented by D2N Technology Solutions. Throughout the one-on-one interview on Motorsport Australia’s Instagram channel late last month, the pair spoke about all things motorsport and Nicholson’s journey as both a competitor and official, as well as answering questions from viewers. Nicholson first got involved in the sport as an official two decades ago, before deciding to be a competitor, which started off with simple track days and finished off as a rally codriver in multiple state rounds within New South Wales and Tasmania. Having also been an official for many years since first joining in the early 2000s, Nicholson eventually made history in 2020 when she was appointed as the Porsche Paynter Dixon Carrera Cup Deputy Race Director, becoming the first woman in Australia to hold that role in a national series. As one of the leading officials at Wakefield Park and Australia as a whole, Nicholson believed there was one key factor to getting the required experience. “I started as a flaggie and worked my way into Race Control, which is

where you need to be should you want to get one of the top jobs. There is lots of pressure, but you get used to it over time,” Nicholson said. “As for officials, there isn’t really a prerequisite for people to come in as volunteers. My advice would just to come in and have a go, woman or man. “At Wakefield Park, we have so many women part of the team – our ratio is actually 50/50. More females are coming in and it’d be the same everywhere. All officials are welcome and we are more than happy for people to get involved. “My advice to people wanting to become officials would be to not get discouraged. I never did. There is always a way to get where you want to go and sometimes you might not get it straight away, but you just work around it and find another way. It’s taken me 10 years to get where I am now, but I wasn’t ready back then and I am ready now.” “I would love to be a Clerk of Course for Supercars or at an international event where I get to go to Asia. That would be a massive achievement. That might be another 10 years, but I am not in a hurry.” Nicholson joins an impressive list of individuals to have featured in the online chats, including international media personality Rosanna Tennant, 2016 RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Champion Molly Taylor and Triple Eight Racing’s Jessica Dane.

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Click here to watch the full chat.

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RENAULT LIFE A DREAM FOR ASPIRING BRIGGS She may not be known to many people in the Australian motorsport community, but Simone Briggs is a name that Australians should remember for the future. Currently in the final stretch of completing a double degree in Mechanical Engineering and Law, Briggs has managed to notch up a number of incredible experiences that some of us could only dare to dream about ever doing. From playing a key part in an international competition winning organisation to undergoing an 11-month internship with Renault Formula 1 team, Briggs has built up quite the resume over the past few years. Remarkably, she had little curiosity in motorsport and the automotive industry when she first went to Monash in 2013, but always had an interest in how technology can be used to help improve communities. All it took was one experience - an integral role within the Monash Motorsport Formula SAE team, who went on to win the competitions in Australia, the United Kingdom and Europe – and Briggs’ life was changed. “Formula Student was a pivotal experience because it set me on this motorsport pathway and was one of the earliest opportunities I had as an engineer to learn the whole process,” Briggs said. “Before that I didn’t have an interest in cars. Mechanical Engineering was something I went into based on my

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maths and science abilities, but doing SAE gave me the chance for a first-hand motorsport experience and doing something hands-on. “It helped me figure out I like to design and optimise things in the form of high performance products, as well as my interest in high end technology and its creative process. “Going over to Europe with the team then gave me the opportunity to do some serious networking and build up connections, which eventually set me up with my first internship in Austria and then Renault." Briggs was clearly impressive during her first visit to Europe with Monash Motorsport, securing an internship with Austria's largest independent powertrain developer, AVL. At the internship, she left a great impression on many of the employees, because not long after, during Monash Motorsport’s winning trip in the UK, she was approached by Renault to interview for an opportunity of joining the team. Briggs didn’t think twice about accepting, nailed the interview and was soon on her way to the UK again to work in Renault’s Aerodynamics Engineering team – something she never even considered six years before.

“There was so much scope for creativity... I was able to really own my projects, which would then have very tangible results on the car’s performance”

“The internship was amazing, especially working in aero engineering,” Briggs added. “Because it was quite a small group, I always felt like a bit of a contractor because people were asking me to do challenging things that had an impact on the team’s development. “It’s not quite as closely related to the car as a main design office, but there was so much scope for creativity with

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

that process and I was able to really own my projects with the wind tunnel, which would then have very tangible results on the car’s performance. “Renault also gave me a lot of opportunities to get involved with other departments. I went in a few weekends to work on strategy and during race weekends, I monitored other teams’ radios in order to support our team in a minor way, which was pretty cool.

“I certainly hope that the internship leads to something more in the future. The problem with F1 is that everything changes so quickly and it’s difficult to forecast if there ever will be an opportunity. I just need to keep an eye out for when one does becomes available.” The Victorian isn’t just determined to join an F1 team in the future, she is hopeful that she can continue to motivate young women in taking up engineering too.

Having been an ambassador in multiple FIA Girls on Track (formerly Dare to be Different) workshops across both Australia and abroad, Briggs has always been a big advocate of helping women join STEM programs. “The thing that is closest to my heart is creating diversity in STEM programs,” Briggs explained. “After the Dare to be Different program in Australia, I actually

“It was so rewarding to see these sorts of girls, who may not have considered becoming engineers, get a kick out of small programs like STEM” did one in the UK where I had the chance to be Renault’s representative and I met some incredible women from other F1 teams, which was again good for networking. “It was so rewarding to see these sorts of girls, who may not have considered becoming engineers, get a kick out of small programs like STEM. “We were building little hovercrafts and I walked them through the process and they got more engaged over time. Seeing their reactions when the projects actually worked was a really rewarding. “A few of them came out of those workshops wanting to get more experience as they went through, It’s something that I love to be a part of.” So whether it’s as a future F1 mechanical engineer or a highend ambassador for women in motorsport – Simone Briggs is certainly destined for great things in this world.

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GIRLS ON TRACK TO OPEN 2021 SEASON IN MARCH The first FIA Girls on Track event for the year will be held in Victoria over the Labour Day long weekend later this month with the two-day event to kick off an exciting 2021 calendar. Taking place at the State Motorcycle Sports Complex in Broadford, the Shannons International Women’s Day Festival will help women of all ages get a feel for motorsport in a fun and family friendly environment. Starting on Sunday 7 March, participating women will get to enjoy a ride day around the course at a discounted cost before attending a networking dinner run by Race Chix Motorsport. The dinner will be hosted by Girls on Track ambassador and popular

TV presenter Kate Peck and will feature a number of special guest speakers and prizes. On the second day, Race Chix Motorsport will then run a Come and Try day for cars on bitumen, as well as a Come and Try day for bikes on the dirt, which will see females of all ages get some track time on three different dirt courses. Day licenses for the three motorsport activities will be available to purchase if required, with all sessions to be run by qualified and experienced coaches. The two-day event will also offer training to women who are interested in becoming motorsport officials.

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The International Women’s Day celebrating event is the first of many exciting Girls on Track outings scheduled in 2021 with the full calendar to be released in the coming weeks. The Shannons International Women’s Day Festival takes place at the State Motorcycle Sports Complex in Broadford on 7-8 March.

For more information on FIA Girls on Track, click here.

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PIVOTAL IT GROUP NAMED TECH PARTNER FOR 2021 Motorsport Australia is pleased to announce a partnership extension with global IT consulting and software solutions company, InWolk. Having been Motorsport Australia’s official technology partner since 2015, InWolk has overseen several major projects throughout the past five years. Some of these include Development of the Motorsport Australia Member Portal, Motorsport Australia’s new website in 2019, assistance with our third-party system integrations and a completely new internal Membership and Business Information System, Octozy. The renewal will see InWolk continue as Motorsport Australia’s technology partner for another year and Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca thanked InWolk for its support. “Since coming on board in 2015, InWolk have been fantastic to work with and have been pivotal in assisting us with some key IT projects,” Arocca said. “The world has advanced significantly over the past few years in terms of technology, and InWolk have been right there to help us move with the times in order to make life easier for our members.We have some major plans in the works for the coming 12 months which will see exciting new developments delivered to our members, clubs and event organisers and InWolk will play a critical role in this work.”

resonates with the guiding principles and vision of the management.” “Motorsport Australia has always been on the forefront of change and have stood ground under challenging circumstances and their leadership backed us to take up this herculean effort. What a wonderful experience.” Fellow co-founder Imran Buch echoed Madduri’s comments and said he was pleased to be working with Motorsport Australia in 2021 and beyond. “Motorsport Australia chose InWolk to help them in streamlining their processes, digitising customer experience, fortifying their web presence, their internal business management and everything in between,” Buch said. “The trust Motorsport Australia put in us to handle this mammoth task is humbling. A big shout out to Eugene and the team for their continued support and rock-solid commitment to making Motorsport Australia one of the first industry leaders to adopt and adapt quickly to cutting edge cloud technologies to drive change.

“InWolk is committed to digital transformation and it gives us great pleasure to be partnering with Motorsport Australia and to be the ones to lead them on this transformation and we are thrilled to sign on for another year," InWolk co-founder Bhushan Madduri said. “The last two years have been a great experience and we thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it - the challenges, the up-hills, steep turns and the joy rides. “InWolk implemented Octozy, a homebred, robust cloud business management solution for Motorsport Australia that stands strong and 22 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

“InWolk takes great pride to be principally involved in this continued journey and we look forward to working with Motorsport Australia to achieve their goals in coming months and years in line with their vision for this industry."

“InWolk is committed to digital transformation and it gives us great pleasure to be partnering with Motorsport Australia” - Bhushan Madduri, InWolk Co-Director

RAISING FUNDS FOR BUSHFIRE VICTIMS

Bushfire Relief Iron On Patch 2021 SHANNONS MOTORSPORT$ AUSTRALIA CHAMPIONSHIPS CALENDAR

Throughout 2021, Motorsport Australia will donate 30% from the total sale of all Bushfire Relief apparel to the Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund and the RSCPA National Bushfire Fund. Items in the range include:

Round 1 Phillip Island, Victoria, February 2021 TBC* Round 2 Bathurst 6 Hour, Bushfire Relief KeyNew Ring South Wales, 2-4 April

Round 3 Sydney Motorsport Park, New South Wales, 1-2 May

Bushfire Relief Stubby Holder

$ Bushfire Relief Polo Shirt

Round 4 Morgan Park, Queensland, 25-27 June Round 5 Sandown International Raceway, Victoria, 10-12 September

Click here to show your

Round 6 support and shop now. The Bend Motorsport Park, South Australia, 15-17 October

Photos: Speed Shots Photography

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MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA APP AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD All Motorsport Australia members can now access their licence on their mobile device, with the new Motorsport Australia app available on the App Store and Google Play. The app will replace existing licence cards, providing competitors and officials with an up-to-date licence which can be viewed on any device. This is one of many upgrades of Motorsport Australia’s technology solutions, designed to make life easier for everyone taking part in motorsport events across Australia. Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca said the app would reduce delays for members waiting on hard licence cards in the post, as well as ensuring people had the most up to date details to show at Motorsport Australia events.

“We want to see more people, enjoying more motorsport, more often and this app is one of the latest developments to help achieve this,” Arocca said. “Once members have renewed their licence via the Member Portal or with our membership team, the app will update instantly, meaning there’s no waiting for the card to be printed and then sent in the mail. “Of course, anyone who still requires a physical card can be provided one on request, but as technology changes and people are more likely to move around without a wallet full of cards, we know our members will make the most of this app on their phone or tablet when attending events and needing to show their licence.” The app can be found in Apple’s App Store and Google Play by

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searching ‘Motorsport Australia’. You can also click on your chosen store below to download the app now. Members can log in to the app using their existing Motorsport Australia Member Portal login details. If you have not registered for the Member Portal, you will need to do so before using the app.

Click here to learn more about the Motorsport Australia App.

RSEA SAFETY STEPS UP ITS SUPPORT RSEA Safety has renewed and expanded its partnership with Motorsport Australia to remain as the naming rights partner of the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship.   As well as continuing as the ARC’s naming rights partner, RSEA Safety will also become the Official Safety Partner of Motorsport Australia, with its logo to feature on officials, media accreditation holders and other safety vests worn at events.    RSEA Safety began its support of the ARC in 2020, and remained a key backer of rallying in Australia throughout the year, despite the COVID-19 pandemic impacting the number of events that were able to be held throughout the last 12 months.    With a full six round calendar scheduled for 2021, the positivity around the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship is at fever pitch, with new classes, numerous title contending competitors and some exciting plans in place for the year.    Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca thanked RSEA Safety for its ongoing and continued support.    “It’s been a tough 12 months, but we’ve been overwhelmed by the support of our loyal partners, like RSEA Safety, who are continuing to support the country’s premier rally competition in 2021, as well as extending their support to incorporate more areas of the sport through this new deal,” Arocca said.    “The values we share with RSEA Safety are also an important component of this partnership, as

“We are excited to be continuing our relationship with such a quality and reputable brand” - Eugene Arocca, Motorsport Australia CEO

safety is such an integral part of everything we do. We are excited to be continuing our relationship with such a quality and reputable brand.    “This new agreement, which also sees RSEA Safety come on board as a Motorsport Australia partner, will also be a benefit to our members and clubs, who will be able to access some great offers for all their safety needs at their events, as well as for whatever safety requirements they might have outside of motorsport.    “It’s also pleasing to see that the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship will reach new heights in 2021, and there are some really exciting plans in place for competitors and fans alike. With the support from the team at RSEA, we’re really looking forward to getting the rally season underway in March at the Netier National Capital Rally.”    RSEA Safety Head of Marketing, Lily Lee said the partnership was a perfect fit for its brand in terms of safety and appeal to tradies.  “We got a small taste last year of what the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship will bring to fans of the sport, and now with a full six round season ready to go in 2021, we can’t wait to get to Canberra for round one,” Lee said. “The passion for motorsport is something that really impresses us, as is the desire for everyone

involved in the sport to do so to the highest levels of safety standards.    “Whether it be at our stores or through our online shop, our team is ready to assist those involved in motorsport with all their safety needs.    “We’re looking forward to working with Motorsport Australia, its clubs, members and the entire motorsport community.”

ABOUT RSEA SAFETY RSEA Safety offers an extensive range of quality Australian and exclusive, globally recognised brands to service any requirement that tradies and businesses have.   Since RSEA Safety opened its doors in 1993, the business has been dedicated to providing customers with outstanding service. This commitment has seen RSEA Safety grow to become the largest independent safety business in Australia and the market leader in all things safety.    With have over 50 Safety Superstores, 6 Distribution Centres, 6 Safety Equipment Hire depots and 16 Embroidery Facilities. RSEA Safety has the capability and capacity to meet the safety needs of your business.

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2020 MEDIA AWARDED FOR RISING ABOVE CHALLENGES

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Motorsport Australia has named its 2020 Media Awards recipients, following a record number of nominations across several categories. Despite there being less events held in 2020 than in previous years, the Australian motorsport media as a whole worked tirelessly throughout the year to cover what was an unprecedented time for the sport. Traditionally announced at the National Awards ceremony in February, ongoing uncertainty around borders and event restrictions meant an in-person ceremony was unable to go ahead this year.

Motorsport Australia President Andrew Fraser congratulated the award recipients and thanked all those who took the time to nominate. “Once again the judges were impressed by the extensive work of the motorsport media throughout 2020 and impressed by the standard of nominations received,” Fraser said. “The high calibre of nominations didn’t make the judging easy, but it goes to show how strong the motorsport media industry is in.

“Congratulations to all our Media Award recipients on their efforts throughout the past 12 months, in a year where journalism, photography and digital media presented our nominees with some very unique challenges. “The innovation and hard work that was nominated highlights the outstanding efforts of our working media, from grassroots through to our biggest international categories.” Dirk Klynsmith Motorsport Australia Photographer of the Year Photo: Linda Mandy

Mark Horsburgh - Special Award for Outstanding Media Contribution in Challenging Circumstances Photo: Supercars

THE 2020 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA MEDIA AWARD RECIPIENTS Motorsport Australia Photograph of the Year: Andrew Eaton, Dakar Press Team Australia Motorsport Australia Photographer of the Year: Dirk Klynsmith, Dirk Klynsmith Photography Motorsport Australia Best Use of Digital Media: Aaron Noonan – V8 Sleuth Motorsport Australia Story of the Year: Mark Fogarty, Auto Action – ‘Why Penske quit Supercars’ Motorsport Australia Journalist of the Year: Mat Coch, Speedcafe Special Award for Outstanding Media Contribution in Challenging Circumstances: Mark Horsburgh, Edge Photographics Andrew Eaton - Motorsport Australia Photograph of the Year Photo: Dakar Press Team Australia

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IMPROVING MOTORSPORT FACILITIES ACROSS VICTORIA Motorsport Australia, with the support of the Victorian Government, will take a forensic look at all forms of motorsport across Victoria, focusing on both facilities and participation. The Victorian Government is providing $200,000 to support the initiative. Motorsport Australia, on behalf of Motorcycling Australia, ANDRA, Karting Victoria, Motorcycling Victoria and Sport and Recreation Victoria, will develop a new Infrastructure and Participation Strategy, aimed at improving access to the sport at all levels. As part of the project, Motorsport Australia will work with Ernst

& Young to identify the current value of motorsport to the Victorian economy, as well as identify infrastructure needs and further opportunities to increase participation in the sport. An audit of all facilities across the state will be undertaken, to provide a detailed understanding of infrastructure needs for all disciplines of the sport. Any prospective new facilities will also be analysed to understand how they can help grow motorsport, the costs involved and the priority of these venues to the state.   When it comes to participation, the strategy will also focus on diversity and the opportunities for growth. It will also identify

“It's well known that motorsport needs more venues and improved facilities to allow more people to experience the thrill of the sport” - Eugene Arocca, Motorsport Australia CEO

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best practice models to encourage more women and girls to get involved in motorsport, including as competitors, officials and volunteers. The strategy will also include the development of a 10-20 year implementation plan. Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca was confident the support would go a long way in helping grassroots motorsport in Victoria. “The development of this Infrastructure and Participation Strategy for Victoria is something that will lead to significant improvements for our clubs and licence holders and all those involved in the sport,” Arocca said. “As government-recognised sanctioning bodies, we know we are in a unique position where we can work closely with Sport Recreation Victoria to provide great benefits for the clubs and participants who love motorsport and simply can’t get enough of it.

Photo: Chantel Collins

“We thank the Victorian Government for their support of this project which will allow us to identify opportunities for the sport and provide new opportunities for both new and existing participants to get involved in the sport. “Across Australia, it is well known that motorsport needs more venues and improved facilities to allow more people to experience the thrill of the sport. The support of the Victorian Government is a great show of faith in the future of all forms of motorsport.”

Click here for the full story.

Photo: Drag Photos

SPEED AND AUTO TESTS ON FOR 2021 The Motorsport Australia Speed and Auto Test Championships for 2021 have been confirmed with all four events to take place towards the end of the year.

weekend, while the Australian Racing Drivers Club wrap up the calendar on 21 November with the Motorsport Australia Supersprint Championship at Sydney Motorsport Park.

With the events having been postponed in 2020 due to COVID-19 and Australian border restrictions, all four will be run by the same clubs at the same venues as originally planned.

Motorsport Australia Director of Motor Sport and Commercial Operations Michael Smith was pleased to be able to confirm the 2021 calendar.

Motorsport Australia Motorkhana Championship Willowbank Raceway 17 October

“It’s great to see all four Speed and National Auto Test Championships back up and running in 2021 and I am sure there are going to be plenty of people keen to compete again after such a long break,” Smith said.

Motorsport Australia Hill Climb Championship Mt Cotton Hill Climb 21-24 October

The first event will be the Motorsport Australia Motorkhana Championship, with the event to be held by the Holden Sporting Car Club of Queensland at Willowbank Raceway on 17 October. Queensland will again be the host for the next national outing with the Motorsport Australia Hill Climb Championship to begin just four days later at Mount Cotton. Run by MG Car Club of Queensland, the event will take place on 21-24 October. The Motor Sports Club of Tasmania will then host the Motorsport Australia Khanacross Championship at Symmons Plains on the following

“While it was a shame they couldn’t take place in 2020, we’re really happy that all four clubs were committed to hosting the events again this year. “It’s still a long way away and anything can happen between now and October, but for the moment, we’re really looking forward to seeing Australia’s best competitors in their respective disciplines do battle for a national crown.”

2021 NATIONAL SPEED AND AUTO TEST CALENDAR

Motorsport Australia Khanacross Championship Symmons Plains 30-31 October Motorsport Australia Supersprint Championship Sydney Motorsport Park 21 November

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LILLIE AND GLENNEY TARGA GIANT KILLERS The Motorsport Australia Targa Championship’s first event for 2021 took place in February with Dean Lillie and Steve Glenney causing a major upset at the Targa High Country.

plenty of composure and pace over the three-day event.

Set across the picturesque roads of Mount Buller and Mansfield areas, the 2007 Mitsubishi Evo pilots put on a masterclass throughout the whole weekend – winning 12 of the 16 stages.

“The car held up well and we drove the wheels off it ever since the opening day.

While Glenney may be a seasoned co-driver and regular competitor at Targa events, it was Lillie’s driving debut on the mountain- although it didn’t look like it as the Victorian showed

“I’ve wanted to do this event since I first came to the Mt Buller Sprint back in the early days,” Lillie said.

The twisty Jamieson and Eildon stages really suited the Evo and Steve has done an amazing job on the other side of the car.” “As with everything we do, we came prepared because we always want to do the best job we can, Glenney said.

“I suppose you could call it a bit of a giant-killing performance but we are not surprised that we have done so well.” In second place a further two and half minutes behind the winning duo was 2020 Targa Great Barrier Reef winner Tony Quinn and his 2019 Motorsport Australia Targa Champion co-driver Kate Catford, while third went to another surprise packet in Liam and Larry Howarth, who were on track for a runner-up finish until the final few stages. Photos: Wishart Media/Otherside Media

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Photo: Wishart Media/Otherside Media

“I suppose you could call it a bit of a giant-killing performance but we are not surprised that we have done so well” - Steve Glenney

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RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship regulars Luke Anear and Andy Sarandis once again proved to be the biggest challengers for much of the event, taking out four stage wins of their own, but once again, couldn’t put together a consistent weekend – the duo eventually settling for a sixth place finish. The Motorsport Australia Targa Championship will now enjoy a small break before heading south for the prestigious Targa Tasmania on 19-24 April.

2021 TARGA HIGH COUNTRY Overall 1. Dean Lillie/Steve Glenney 2. Tony Quinn/Kate Catford 3. Liam Howarth/Larry Howarth 4. Geoffrey Hewitt/Toni Hewitt 5. Thomas Monaghan/Alan Stephenson Mt Buller GT Outright 1. Tony Quinn/Kate Catford 2. Thomas Monaghan/Alan Stephenson 3. Luke Anear/Andy Sarandis Classic Handicap 1. Peter Gluskie/Samantha Winter 2. Paul Byrne/Colin Byrne 3. Philip-Jon Buggee/Paul Freame Mansfield Shire GT Production 1. Thomas Monaghan/Alan Stephenson 2. Barrie Smith/Dale Moscatt 3. Michael Minshall/Julie Winton-Monet Classic GT 1. Roger Lomman/Anne Bainbridge 2. Adam Kaplan/Aleshia Penney 3. Mark Griffith/Neil Woolley Dutton Garage Early Modern 2 1. Adam Spence/Lee Challoner-Miles 2. Edward Merewether/Jennifer Gillott 3. David Blunden/Robert Sheppard Dutton Garage Early Modern 4 1. Dean Lillie/Steve Glenney 2. Liam Howarth/Larry Howarth 3. Geoffrey Hewitt/Toni Hewitt Mansfield Shire GT Sports Trophy 1. Simon Trude/Dion Morrison 2. Robert Bryden/Ian Noble 3. Steven Sher/Fergal Murphy Mansfield Shire Thoroughbred Trophy 1. Brett Dillon/Geoffrey Corah 2. Laura Rogers/Gavin Rogers 3. Robert Greig/Stephen Harris TSD Trophy 1. Neville Emond/Stephen Jones 2. Tracy Hoven/Garth Davies 3. Shane Navin/Glenn Evans Photos: Wishart Media/Otherside Media

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RECORD BREAKING ST GEORGE 399 TO START HISTORIC AORC The BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC) kicks off this month with the highly anticipated Cobb & Co Hotel St George 399.

With more than 80 crews expected to line up in St George, a number of stars will be itching to go, since the last official AORC event was in 2019.

The South East Queensland Off Road Association (SEQORRA) run event has the honour of once again hosting the first round of the new season, only this time it’s far bigger than previous years.

Leading the charge will be reigning AORC champion Mark Burrows, with the eight time winner gunning for one more title before he looks at retirement and gives co-driver and son Matthew the keys to the car.

Not only is it the first round of the expanded five-round season, but the event will likely break its previous entry list record of 75 crews, set in 2019.

Trophy Truck stars Beau Robinson and Greg Gartner and SXS Turbo pilots Toby Whatley and Roydn Bailey will be hoping to go one better than

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

their respective outright runner-up finishes from 2018 and 2019, while 2019 Finke runner-up Josh Howells and veteran Brett Comiskey in the old Shannon Rentch buggy both enter the season as dark horses. BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia West Australian Off Road Cup winner Shane Elphinstone will be hoping to convert his free-entry prize into a victory and set up a solid charge for the title.

Photo: Chantel Collins

Like a handful of AORC crews entered into the event, Elphinstone will experience St George for the first time this month, but won’t be at a huge disadvantage compared to the returning competitors, with SEQORRA having made a variety of changes to the course. Firstly, it will run in the opposite direction to what it did between 2017 and 2019, adding some unfamiliarity to the mix, while the format change means crews have extra opportunities to make required fixes. Instead of Prologue happening on the Saturday morning before the first section, it has shifted to Friday afternoon, meaning Saturday’s schedule opens up and puts less pressure on competitors.

order to be ready for the next day. Event organisers have also confirmed that spectators will be allowed to watch the event with more than 20 kilometres of the track visible from the main grandstand. The 2021 BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship begins later this month with the Cobb & Co St George 399 on 19-21 March.

Entries for the St George 399 remain open until 6 March. Click here to download an entry form.

It also allows crews more time to make any fixes should they need instead of rushing through them in

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Photos: Dirtcomp Magazine

SXS RAINBOW READY FOR LAUNCH The new look KINCROME SXS Motorsport Australia Championship gets underway later this month with the first of seven rounds to take place in Rainbow, Victoria. Unlike previous years, competitors will now battle it out over two 100km races with the outright round winner to be decided by who clocks up the most kilometres across both races. With a new major sponsor, new format and new calendar making up the new championship, there is plenty of excitement building for the championship in 2021,

especially with the quality of some of the drivers already signed up. Headlining the growing entry list are three drivers with eight national titles between them. The reigning SXS champion – Jackson Evans, will be joined by his father and 2018 champion Simon Evans as one of the favourites to win the championship as a whole. Having won four RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (ARC) titles throughout this career, Simon remains as one of the biggest draw cards on the entry list.

In 2021, he won’t be the only former rally convert plying their trade in a SXS buggy, with Cody Crocker to make his grand return to the Championship. An ARC champion himself, Crocker has been a major player in the KINCROME SXS Motorsport Australia Championship for many years – winning it in 2016, finishing second in 2017 and taking out the fifth round of the 2018 season. The three drivers aren’t the only names to look out for, with dark horse Stephen Henry also looking to clinch his first title after coming close on multiple occasions. The first round of the 2021 KINCROME SXS Motorsport Australia Championship takes place in Rainbow on 13 March.

For more information on the 2021 Kincrome SXS Motorsport Australia Championship, click here

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Photos: Bruce Keys

GEORGE WOODS RALLY HONES LOCAL TALENT

The 2021 George Woods Rally has been run and won as Anthony and Mitch Fleming steered their Holden Commodore VR to a thrilling victory in the historic Rally Association’s popular regularity rally. With a field of 74 crews competing in the Victorian event, it didn’t come easy for the Flemings as they just managed to win the event by two seconds over Shannon and Justin Seabrook. The two front runners were a cut above the rest though as the next fastest crew was the the Michael Bansagi and Peter Agrotis driven Datsun 122, who finished 23 seconds behind the Seabrook’s Subaru. The third placed duo would have been thrilled with the result as they

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Photos: Bruce Keys

“This event always has been, and still is, an event to introduce new competitors to the sport of Rallying”

endured a battle for the podium themselves, eventually securing third by just four seconds over Graham Walls and Brian Ward.

- Glad Fish, Event Clerk of Course

A long-time member of the club, Clerk of Course Glad Fish believed the event was important

While a third of the field had quite a bit of experience under their belts, there were 52 rookies who competed in the rally, which has been a major focus for the club when running the event in previous years. With the rookies part of a special competition, the Rookies Ramble, there was plenty to fight for and in the end it was the club’s own Mitch Garrad and Taylah Murphy who won in their Hyundai Excel.

for motorsport development. “This event always has been, and still is, an event to introduce new competitors to the sport of rallying, as well as providing an event for competitors who want to rally at club level,” Fish said. “The 2021 event had a field of 74 competitors, 52 of which were rookies who had competed in less than five previous events, with several competing in their first event. “George Woods always encouraged junior and lady competitors too and the 2021 event had five competitors under the age of 18 and four lady competitors.”

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SMALL BREAK BETWEEN WINS FOR POULIER Wayne Poulier enjoyed a solid start to the 2021 Ipswich West Moreton Auto Club Autocross season last month with an impressive victory over 37 other cars in the first round of the year. Having endured a 12 month drought of victories between 2019 and 2020, the weekend was the perfect way for Poulier to start the year off, with the 49-year-old now likely to be full of confidence after winning the tough race. Locked into a tight battle with fellow Subaru WRX driver Alan Wienert throughout the whole event, Poulier had a slow start but eventually found his way to the top of the timesheets, ultimately taking out the event by six seconds.

Photos: CH Images

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Photos: CH Images

In third place was another one of the club’s title contenders and the driver Poulier beat during his memorable victory last October in Anthony Bonnici. Behind the wheel of a Mitsubishi Evo 8, Bonnici finished just under nine seconds slower than Wienert. In fourth place was Subaru Impreza driver Tim Crase, while Honda Civic driver David Smith rounded out the top five, as well as being the final driver to record an accumulated time under 10 minutes. The second round of the Ipswich West Moreton Auto Club’s 2021 Autocross season will be on 18 April.

Click here for information on the Ipswich West Moreton Auto Club.

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Photo: Speed Shots Photography

HYUNDAI TO LEAD THE SHANNONS CHAMPIONSHIPS FIELD Hyundai will once again provide the official safety car for all Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships events in 2021. The popular vehicle manufacturer will provide its support at all events, with the brand’s award winning, high performance Hyundai i30 N to take on safety car duties at the Championships. Hyundai will also provide a number of support vehicles from across their wide range of vehicles, including vans and passenger cars, to allow Motorsport Australia to host these events across the country.

“We’re delighted the iconic Hyundai i30 N will be able to lead the field as the official safety car in 2021” - Guido Schenken, Hyundai PR Senior Manager

Smith thanked Hyundai for their ongoing support.

Hyundai PR Senior Manager Guido Schenken was excited about the partnership and the racing season ahead.

“Hyundai have been involved with the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships events for many years and we are delighted to have them on board again in 2021,” Smith explained.

“The Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships hosts a really exciting range of categories that have broad appeal to all racing fans,” Schenken said.

“The i30 N hot hatch is a fantastic and popular vehicle and will be more than capable of leading the various categories whenever a safety car is required.

“We’re delighted the iconic Hyundai i30 N will be able to lead the field as the official safety car in 2021 and we can’t wait to see the racing get underway at Phillip Island later this month.”

“We’re really excited about the first round of the Championships and look forward to seeing the Hyundai safety car at the event.”

Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships Director Michael

The action will also be broadcast in Australia on the screens of Seven, including streaming on the 7plus app.

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SHANNONS OPENER MOVES TO MARCH After a false start in February, the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships finally get underway this month with Phillip Island having the honour of hosting the opening round of the 2021 season. While the Australian Superbike Championship will unfortunately not feature in the round due to calendar clashes, there is still a lot of excitement expected for the weekend with a host of Australian Racing Group categories to take centre stage.

Children 15 and under are free but must register for a ticket in advance to be eligible to enter the venue. Corporate hospitality options are also available, with spectators able to purchase tickets for the Morris Finance Drivers’ Club across both Saturday and Sunday for a luxurious experience at the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships. Photo: Revved Photography

The popular and exciting Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge also joins the all-star cast of the rescheduled round, while some grassroots categories will also be included. Each category will enjoy plenty of track time throughout the weekend with private practice sessions on the Friday to set up qualifying and opening races on the Saturday, before the remainder of races are run on Sunday.

Photo: Daniel Kalisz Photographer

The categories to make up the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships’ first round of the year will be the VHT S5000 Australian Drivers Championship, Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series, National Trans Am Series and the Motorsport Australia GT Championship.

In a major boost for motorsport fans, limited tickets to the round have been made available with up to 3,500 spectator tickets up for grabs on both the Saturday and Sunday. All tickets will only be on offer via pre-purchase – meaning no tickets can be purchased at the gate. General admission tickets are $25 each day, or $40 for a two-day weekend pass.

Spectators unable to attend the two-day event can tune in through the screens of 7, including on 7mate and 7plus, while New Zealand viewers will be able to watch via Sky Sports New Zealand and other international viewers can watch online via the Motorsport.TV stream. The Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships’ opening round takes place at the iconic Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit on 12-14 March.

Click here to purchase tickets to Round 1 of the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championship.

Photo: Dan Thompson

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Photo: Wayne Jones

QUEENSLAND ADDED TO ARC CALENDAR The RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship will head to Queensland in 2021, with the sunshine state to host the second round of the Championship in May. The event itself received a major boost this week with Accent Benchtops signing on as the event’s naming rights partner. Unveiling a new logo and major partner, the event is on track for its return to the ARC calendar in 2021, providing an exciting new event for crews to enjoy. The new logo includes elements and colours familiar to all Queenslanders, ensuring the event retains a very special ‘Queensland feel’. The Brisbane Sporting Car Club promoted event will now be known as Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland. Owned by prominent state rally competitor Glenn Brinkman, Accent Benchtops has become the largest stone benchtop supplier on the east coast of Australia. The Gold Coast based company’s service ranges from Wollongong to Cairns with outlets in major cities and regional centres such as Sydney, Newcastle,

Coffs Harbour, Gold Coast, Mackay, Brisbane and Toowoomba. The family-run company has been in operation for over 20 years, manufacturing and supplying the most up to date technologically advanced benchtops for domestic, commercial, special project and custom design usage. Having competed in the New South Wales and Queensland state rally events for more than 30 years, Brinkman was pleased Accent Benchtops was able to support Rally Queensland in its return to the top tier of Australian rallying. “Accent Benchtops is extremely proud to support the return of Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland and the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship to Queensland Rallying,” Brinkman said. “As a competitor myself, I see the enormous value of rallying in Queensland where state competitors can pit themselves against Australia’s best teams whilst getting the opportunity to showcase the sport’s resurgence with the influx of new ARC cars and teams.

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“Sponsoring and supporting Rally Queensland fits perfectly with our business operations in south east Queensland and we look forward to a long-term relationship to help this event return its reputation of previous years.” Brisbane Sporting Car Club President Dominic Corkeron was excited to confirm the sponsorship news and new logo for the event. “Accent Benchtops is a terrific Queensland business and Glenn and his team certainly have a real passion for rallying,” Corkeron said. “To have the support of an organisation such as Accent Benchtops is a real confidence booster for this event. “We’re also really delighted to unveil our new logo today, which will proudly feature across our event collateral and digital assets in the lead up to this exciting national event that will make our region proud.” Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland will be held on 21-23 May in Gympie, Queensland.

COFFS COAST TO HOST WORLD CLASS RALLY ACTION Coffs Harbour will play host to the final round of the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (ARC) and the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) finale on 26-28 November 2021, thanks to the support of the NSW Government. The new look ‘Coffs Coast Rally’ will see competitors from across Australia, New Zealand and Asia head to New South Wales for the event, with stages previously used in Rally Australia as part of the FIA World Rally Championship. The international event will crown both Australia’s best rally crew of 2021 as the sixth round of the ARC, while the APRC competitors will be putting it all on the line to grab the regional FIA title. The New South Wales Government has thrown its support behind the event, with thousands expected to flock to the region to enjoy the fast-paced action from spectator points, or be part of the event as officials, competitors or crew. Deputy Premier John Barilaro said staging another world class rally in Coffs Harbour is well overdue, after bushfires and COVID forced the cancellation of the event two years in a row.

“The NSW Nationals are building a safer and stronger regional NSW by securing world-class events for country cities, showcasing our incredible regions to the world,” Mr Barilaro said. “This is an example of what can happen when you have a council who is prepared to work with the government and stakeholders to bring world-class events to regional NSW.” Motorsport Australia President Andrew Fraser was excited at the prospect of international rallying returning to Coffs Harbour. “The Coffs Coast has been a big part of the Australian rally scene in recent years and we know this 2021 event will be another fantastic event for the region,” Fraser said. “Of course we will work closely with the NSW Government to ensure the event follows all ‘COVID Safe’ protocols, including arrival of any international crews and spectators, who will be subject to the entry requirements at the time of the event.” Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said hosting the Asia Pacific Rally Championships in Coffs Harbour is a massive win for the region.

“The NSW Nationals are creating a safer and stronger Coffs Harbour and supporting this event will bring a valuable boost to the local economy,” Mr Singh said. “The rally will bring domestic and international visitors to the region, showcasing Coffs Harbour to the world, and encouraging returning visitors to secure tourism benefits now and into the future.” More details on both Rally Queensland and the Coffs Coast Rally will be announced in the coming months.

RSEA SAFETY MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP 2021 CALENDAR Round 1: Netier National Capital Rally, Canberra - 26-28 March Round 2: Rally Queensland, Gympie - 21-23 May Round 3: Rally Launceston, Launceston - 2-4 July Round 4: Gippsland Rally, Heyfield - 7-8 August Round 5: AGI Sport Adelaide Hills Rally - 16-17 October Round 6: Coffs Coast Rally - FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship Finale - 26-28 November

Photos: Wishart Media

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Photo: Wayne Jones

ARC TRAIN FIRST STOP: CANBERRA When the Netier National Capital Rally takes place at the end of March, it will have been more than 18 months since the last official RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (ARC) round ran. A lot has changed since Harry Bates and John McCarthy won the Adelaide Hills Rally to secure their maiden ARC title in September 2019, with this season to be the biggest in recent years.

With new sponsors, new minor cups and plenty of crews looking for some glory, there is plenty to look forward to in 2021 as the ARC train continues to build momentum around the country. While the outright ARC competition will certainly be the main attraction all year, the minor cups will be just as interesting, especially the Shamrock Haulage ARC 2WD Cup, where competitors will be fighting it out for free tyres, courtesy of the ARC’s tyre supplier, Hoosier Tires Australia.

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Add the White Wolf Constructions ARC Production Cup, ARC Junior Cup and ARC Classic Cup into the mix and there is so much to race for this year. And it all starts this month in Canberra with more than 35 crews already entered in the season opener where they will be tackling 162 competitive kilometres across 14 stages. It’s not just the ARC who would be competing in Canberra either, with a number of state and local rally

competitions also commencing their seasons, including the Motorsport Australia NSW Rally Championship, East Coast Classic Rally Series and ACT Regional Rally Series. With the first seeded car scheduled to start at 8am local time on Saturday 27 March, every entry across all competitions will run on the first day of action with around 100 competitive kilometres over eight stages on the menu. On Sunday, the New South Wales and East Coast Rallies will have already wrapped up, leaving the national crews to complete the remaining six stages of 60 kilometres - including the Bluetts Power Stage, which will offer the winning crew valuable bonus points. The entry list, which will close on 12 March, already features a number of powerhouse crews with Bates and McCarthy the obvious headline act. Photo: Wayne Jones

Australia steammate Lewis Bates, 2017 ARC champion Nathan Quinn, ARC podium placer Luke Anear, Victorian champion Arron Windus and ARC star Richie Dalton – all of whom could be serious contenders in 2021. The first stop for the ARC begins in Canberra with the Netier National Capital Rally on 26-28 March.

Click here to view the 2021 Netier National Capital Rally Supplementary Regulations.

Click here to enter the 2021 Netier National Capital Rally

Joining the 2019 champions in the field will be Toyota Gazoo Razing MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 47

SHANE DOES THE DOUBLE IN BATHURST The Repco Supercars Championship finally returned in February with the iconic Mount Panorama the location for the highly anticipated season opener, the Mount Panorama 500. With some drivers making their official debuts, multiple teams fielding different line-ups and a pool of stars looking to start the season on a high, there was plenty of curiosity about how the first round of the year would unfold. And yet it was a familiar name who ended the weekend with a perfect score – Shane van Gisbergen. Picking up where he left off at the same circuit in October, van Gisbergen solidified his credentials as one of the main title favourites in 2021 after coming close in the previous two seasons.

to season after claiming wins in both wins, as well as securing a pole position. His closest title rivals had mixed weekends with Cameron Waters failing to finish one race but finishing second in the other, a similar fate experienced by DJR Penske’s Anton De Pasquale, while teammate Jamie Whincup was unable to fire as much as he would have liked. An impressive haul of points from Chaz Mostert puts him in early conversations about title contention, as is Mark Winterbottom – the veteran turning back the clock to secure two top-five finishes and ending the weekend in third behind Mostert. With Sandown the next stop for the Championship, all eyes will be on the leading New Zealander and if he can continue his red-hot form.

The 2016 champion couldn’t have asked for a better start

Photos: EDGE Photographics

48 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Photos: EDGE Photographics

NEXT STOP Penrite Oil Sandown SuperSprint 19-21 March

RACE 1 TOP FIVE 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Shane van Gisbergen Chaz Mostert Will Davison Mark Winterbottom Bryce Fullwood

RACE 2 TOP FIVE 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Shane van Gisbergen Cameron Waters Chaz Mostert Anton De Pasquale Mark Winterbottom

CHAMPIONSHIP TOP 10 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Shane van Gisbergen - 300 Chaz Mostert - 267 Mark Winterbottom - 231 Will Davison – 225 Jamie Whincup - 198 Cameron Waters - 183 Bryce Fullwood - 177 David Reynolds - 156 Jack Le Brocq - 150 Andrew Heimgartner - 144

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 49

OLIVER TOO STRONG IN HIGHCLERE HILLCLIMB The North West Car Club successfully held their popular Must Love Cars Highclere Hillclimb last month with 37 entries taking part in the event. With each competitor getting six attempts at the course, it took Nathan Oliver just half that to post a time worthy of victory – his 33.52 second run only beaten at the end by Oliver himself. Steering his Mazda RX8 to a 33.49 second run on his final try of the hill climb, Oliver was a highly deserving winner of the event, having held top spot since that solid third run time.

Another standout performer was Sheridan Budsworth who secured second place behind the wheel of a Nissan Skyline. Budsworth seemed Oliver’s biggest challenger, having posted the fastest time of the event, a 34.09 on her second, before being beaten by Oliver on the next run. Budsworth continued to improve her time as the day went on, posting the fastest time on the fourth and fifth runs, before notching up a commendable 33.75 second run in her last attempt. Rounding out the podium, just one tenth behind Budsworth was Bradley van der Drift in the

Photos: Rick Burt Racing

Nissan 200x. Despite not being able to eclipse the two drivers in front of him, van der Drift was still solid all day and came away with a class win. Adding to van der Drift’s positive day out was being awarded the event’s driver of the day, while the 29th placed Robert Whiteway was deemed the best presented car.

Click here to view full results from the Must Love Cars Highclere Hillclimb

50 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

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