The 2023 FIA Formula 1 World Championship has officially begun with reigning champion Verstappen starting his title defence on a high.
A new Parliamentary Friends of Motorsport group has been established, to help facilitate opportunities and discussions with members of Federal Parliament.
The Motorsport Australia National Awards, presented by Shannons Insurance, made its grand return last month in what was a spectacular Gala event.
The Shannons SpeedSeries kicked into gear last month with the first of eight events this year proving a massive success for teams, drivers and race fans.
NSW 2259. The winner will be notified by phone and email by 12/7/23 and published in The Australian newspaper on 14/7/23 and on the competition website. ACT permit TP 22/02359 SA licence T22/1956 & NSW Authority Number TP/00259. Images for illustrative purposes only. 1 Or similar, car hire is subject to availability and the terms and conditions specified by the hire provider.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 an additional $5,000
The Motorsport Australia National Awards, presented by Shannons Insurance, made its grand return last month in what was a highly successful gala dinner.
A full house was on hand at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre for the first time since 2020 to witness a busy night of celebrations as the champions of 2022 were acknowledged for their stellar seasons, as well as acknowledging a number of motorsport stalwarts both on and off track.
From first-time champions such as Lewis Bates (Motorsport Australia Rally Championship) and Ryan Taylor (Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship) to multiple-title winners like three-time Supercars champion Shane van Gisbergen
and back-to-back Motorkhana champion Aaron Wuillemin, there were plenty of deserving drivers across all disciplines celebrated.
In addition to the champions of 2022, a number of individuals were recognised for their contributions on and off the track throughout the night, including those who were awarded Life Membership.
Those honoured for their services to the sport with Life Memberships were Graeme Palmer, John Rosengrave, Ryan Story, Roland Dane, Laurence Svenson and Derek Pingel, while both Brad and Kim Jones were given one of Motorsport Australia’s highest honours, the Membership of Honour.
Two individuals were awarded Life Membership for 2022 with the highly
respected Ewan Cole and Roger Brown both recognised – Cole for being one of the country’s most senior officials and trainers and Brown for his natural leadership and problemsolving skills in demanding situations. Another official honoured for his contributions to the sport was Bob Hockley, who was
named as the 2022 Motorsport Australia Official of the Year.
A Motorsport Australia scrutineer since 1974, Hockley has often held a senior role at events around the country, many of which were as Chief Scrutineer at race meetings in his hometown of NSW or as a Technical Commissioner for a number of national categories.
In addition to his long-standing event work, Hockley has served as a NSW State Council Executive and is currently a member of the NSW Scrutiny Advisory Panel.
From the celebration of an experienced stalwart of the sport to two individuals at the start of what are likely to be long motorsport careers.
Named as the 2022 Peter Brock Medallist was Supercars driver Thomas Randle, while young rally star Taylor Gill was crowned as the Young Driver of the Year.
Both drivers have demonstrated the values emphasised by each award throughout their careers and have delivered when it comes to getting results.
Competing for more than a decade now, Randle is the more experienced driver of the two and enjoyed an international stint against some of the best young talents before coming back to Australia where he overcame severe health setbacks to win the Dunlop Super2 Series in 2020. Randle also secured third place in the 2021 Australian Drivers Championship, which paved the way for a move to Supercars where he had a first full-time season last year.
Gill on the other hand is about to embark on an international journey of his own.
Having progressed through motorkhanas, autocrosses and rallysprints before making a national rally debut in 2020, the teenager completed his first full season in the Motorsport Australia Rally Championship, which conclude with victory in the White Wolf Constructions ARC Production Cup.
Gill’s career highlight came in October though, where he won the FIA’s Rally Star Asia Pacific Final in India, securing a six international
rally deal in a M-Sport prepared Ford Fiesta Rally3 – a massive boost to his dreams of one day competing in the FIA World Rally Championship. A number of others were celebrated during the ceremony for their international achievements in 2022, including all eight members of Australia’s FIA Motorsport Games campaign, led by Gold Medallist Matt Campbell, and FIA 2022 Senior Official of the Year Christopher McMahon.
In addition to drivers and officials, members of the media were also acknowledged throughout the night. West Australian journalist Andrew van Leeuwen picked up two awards, the Motorsport Journalist of the Year and News Story of the Year, while rising star Jack Martin was named as the Photographer of the Year.
Canberran Peter Norton was awarded the Photo of the Year and popular motorsport news outlet V8 Sleuth was the winner of the Best Use of Digital Media for the third year in a row.
Click here to hear from the winners from the night.
Photo: Flash Studio
Life Membership
Ewan Cole
Roger Brown
Graeme Palmer
John Rosengrave
Ryan Story
Roland Dane
Laurence Svenson
Derek Pingel
Membership of Honour
Brad and Kim Jones
Australian Motorsport Official of the Year
Bob Hockley
Peter Brock Medal
Thomas Randle
Young Driver of the Year
Taylor Gill
Service Award (Media)
Chris Nixon
Motorsport Journalist of the Year
Andrew van Leeuwen
News Story of the Year
Andrew van Leeuwen
Best Use of Digital Media
V8 Sleuth
Motorsport Photograph of the Year
Peter Norton
Motorsport Photographer of the Year
Jack Martin
FIA
Senior Official of the Year
Christopher McMahon
Member
Aaron Cameron
Aiva Anagostiadis
Brenton Grove
Stephen Grove
Costa Toparis
Matt Campbell
Peter Bouzinelos
Philippa Boquida
Photo: Flash Studio Photo: Flash StudioThe Motorsport Australia State Awards, presented by Shannons Insurance, have wrapped up for another year.
Throughout February and March, six virtual presentations hosted by Cameron van den Dungen were broadcast via Motorsport Australia’s website, recognising hundreds of state champions for their stellar seasons in 2022.
In addition to the celebration of the champions, clubs, volunteer
officials and administrators also got their time in the spotlight as each presentation announced a number of awards dedicated to those individuals who contribute to the sport.
From the awards at every state such Service Awards, Service Stars and State Officials of the Year Awards, to those more unique to different states, such as the NSW/ACT’s Kevin Bartlett Award and the NT Motorsport Person of the Year. Although the state awards were once held virtually, a number of states held official watch parties, where a small event was held to watch the online presentation live and in the company of their fellow Motorsport Australia members and competition winners.
Western Australia was one of those states to hold a watch party, as all the winners and grinners of 2022, as well as those individuals winning special awards, were presented with their trophies.
To watch the replays of the virtual Motorsport Australia State Awards, presented by Shannons Insurance, click here.
Motorsport Australia has introduced a new development program for young people, First Gear. Designed to provide the first introduction to motorsport for girls and boys, the program includes time behind the wheel under supervised conditions and will be run at locations around Australia throughout 2023 and beyond.
Available to teenagers aged between 12 and 17, the program teaches the fundamentals of motorsport and outlines the steps required to begin competing more regularly.
First Gear will feature exercises designed for small groups to allow every child the opportunity to learn new skills from our expert instructors in a safe environment. After they have mastered the basics of car control, they will be ready to progress to participate in club level events.
Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca said the First Gear program provided an important pathway into the sport.
“It can be difficult to know where you want to start in motorsport, so First Gear provides a terrific pathway for those starting their motorsport journey to discover a potential pathway,” Arocca said.
“The First Gear brand is an exciting opportunity for Motorsport Australia to generate more interest and welcome more participants into the sport, particularly those younger motorsport fans. “Coupled with our other programs, like the hugely popular FIA Girls on Track program, this is another step in making sure the sport’s future remains bright.”
The program will also continue to grow in the years ahead, giving young people more opportunities to participate in their local car clubs across all disciplines, including rally and off road.
This brand is the next phase of the previous development program run under the Ricciardo’s Racers banner.
A full 2023 events calendar can be found at motorsport.org.au/ firstgear with bookings now open for events across the country. The first event will be held on 19 March in Sydney.
For more information and to secure your child’s place in this innovative program, click here.
“First Gear provides a terrific pathway for those starting their motorsport journey to discover a potential pathway”
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The 2023 FIA Formula 1 World Championship has officially begun with reigning champion Max Verstappen starting his title defence on a high thanks to a dominant victory in Bahrain.
Oscar Piastri had a disappointing initiation into the premier category of world motorsport, as his debut lasted just 14 laps of the Bahrain Grand Prix, while Fernando Alonso had a dream start to life at Aston Martin.
Piastri was not the only Aussie in Bahrain either, with Jack Doohan racing his second season of Formula 2 and Hugh Barter, Christian Mansell and Tommy Smith all racing in the FIA Formula 3 Championship.
Unfortunately, all four drivers didn’t get to enjoy the results they were hoping for as they succumbed to a mix of mechanical dramas,
challenging qualifying sessions and just plain bad luck.
However, all five will have to move on quickly and put that tough weekend behind them as they switch their focus to their next task at hand, which for Piastri and Doohan will be in Saudi Arabia and for the F3 trio, in Melbourne at the end of the month.
It’s unprecedented times (but in a good way) for not just the five Aussies, who will get a chance to compete in front of a home crowd, but for both the F2 and F3 Championship which have never raced in Australia in any previous form.
Of course, that is just one thing tolook out for at this year’s Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix, which takes place at the end of the month.
That fateful Friday in 2020 where the Australian Grand Prix was called
off and didn’t return until last year seems quite some time ago after how successful the event was last year.
In 2022, the Australian Grand Prix returned in spectacular fashion as record crowds of more than 400,000 people entered
Photo: Ferrari Media / FOTO COLOMBO IMAGESthrough the gates at Albert Park across the four-day weekend.
Crowd numbers are expected to surpass that figure this year, which is fitting considering it’s the 70th anniversary of the famous event and there are many narratives to keep track of.
No doubt, Piastri will be the headline story and hopefully the 21-yearold Victorian will be able to find some pace out of the McLaren in Jeddah before performing in front of his home crowd.
Ferrari and Mercedes will also have to dig deep and try to improve
ahead of their return to a track that each team have favourable records at to make sure they don’t fall too far behind their bullish rivals.
Bumper grids also make Formula 2 and Formula 3 highly appealing for fans with some of the best young talents around the world.
In addition to three international open-wheel categories, the Repco Supercars Championship and Porsche Paynter Dixon Carrera Cup Australia Championship will round out what is one of the most exciting support cards at the Australian Grand Prix in recent years.
A busy schedule both on track and off track awaits fans planning to attend with the main event, the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, taking place at 3pm AEST.
Tickets for the event are still available, while the full event will be broadcast
Hear from leading international and Australian members of the LGBITQ+ community in motorsport at the free Pride In Motorsport panel discussion, taking place at 6pm – 8pm AEDT at the Victorian Pride Centre Theatrette on Wednesday, 29 March.
Ten pit walk passes at the Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix for 30 March are also on offer for those who attend.
via Fox Sports and Kayo live and ad-free. Network Ten will show coverage of the Australian Grand Prix across channels 10 and 10Play.
The Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix takes place at Albert Park on 30 March – 2 April.
Thursday, 30 March - 09:30am AEDT
Friday, 31 March - 08:30 AEDT
Saturday, 1 April - 09:00 AEDT
Sunday, 2 April - 08:30 AEST
Practice 1: Friday 12:30pm – 1:30pm
Practice 2: Friday 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Practice 3: Saturday 12:30pm – 1:30pm
Qualifying: Saturday 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Driver Parade: Sunday 1:00pm – 1:30pm
Race: Sunday 3:00pm
To be eligible for this prize draw, you must register and be in attendance of the panel discussion. Racing Pride members will also have access to a reserved allocation of tickets.
Click here to register for the Pride In Motorsport panel discussion.
Photo: McLaren Racing Media / Andy Hone Photo: Edge Photographics Photo: Edge PhotographicsThis month’s Supercheap Auto Official Superstar goes to Tony Mole, who is an active Motorsport Australia official from Tasmania.
Based 10 minutes from Symmons Plains Raceway, Tony is an integral cog within the Tasmanian motorsport community and has been a Motorsport Australia official since 2011.
Tony goes above and beyond at every Motorsport Australia event he volunteers at, including the Shannons SpeedSeries’ AWC Race Tasmania at Symmons Plains, where he was setting up trackside before anyone else arrived for the event, as well as the last to leave.
He is great at communicating, is a people person and is more than
willing to get in and help others out, which makes him more than worthy to be our Supercheap Auto Official Superstar for March.
Having the initiative to go out and do something without being asked is something his peers value highly, and he helps others by going beyond of what his own role requires.
Tony will be seen at events doing radio supply for officials, works in fire and rescue recovery and does roles that no-one else puts their hand up for.
To thank Tony for his superstar efforts as a Motorsport Australia official, he will receive a $100 gift card to spend in-store at Supercheap Auto, a commemorative pin, and a certificate.
Do you know, or are you an official who has gone above and beyond at a Motorsport Australia event? Nominate now to be the Supercheap Auto Official Superstar for April:
Click here to submit your story.
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A new Parliamentary Friends of Motorsport group has been established, to help facilitate opportunities and discussions with members of Federal Parliament.
The group was celebrated and officially announced at a breakfast at Parliament House in Canberra on Tuesday morning with a number of high-profile guests in attendance, including the Minister for Sport Anika Wells and Australian Sports Commission CEO Kieren Perkins OAM.
Co-founders and federal parliamentarians Luke Gosling
OAM and Bert van Manen officially welcomed the formation of the group.
“Motorsports are a massive part of Australian life, and we’ve formed
this group to promote and grow this exciting sector,” Gosling said.
“Motorsports have played an intrinsic role in defining Australian culture for decades” van Manen said.
“As the motor racing landscape is set to change dramatically in the coming decade, I’m thrilled to be joined by my colleagues in supporting the development of the sport, particularly at a grassroots level.
“It’s exciting to see the parliament recognise the immense contribution
motorsport has made in the lives of so many Australians.”
The event was also attended and supported by five-time Australian Touring Car Champion Mark Skaife OAM, 2022 Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Champion Lewis Bates and Supercars driver Cameron Hill from Truck Assist Racing.
Members of the Australian Motorsport Council were also in attendance, which includes representatives from Motorsport Australia, Karting
Pictured above (L-R): Minister for Sport Anika Wells and co-founders of the Parliamentary Friends of Motorsport, Luke Gosling OAM and Bert van Manen.
Photos: Epic Sports Photography
“It’s exciting to see the parliament recognise the immense contribution motorsport has made in the lives of so many Australians.”
Australia, Motorcycling Australia, Australian National Drag Racing Association and Speedway Australia.
Motorsport Australia President Andrew Fraser said the group would provide significant opportunities for motorsport.
“On behalf of the Australian Motorsport Council the formation of the Parliamentary Friends of Motorsport is a special occasion for everyone who competes, officiates or enjoys motorsport,” Fraser said.
“This group will allow us the opportunity to discuss and raise important topics for consideration at the Federal Government level, including the importance of existing and new permanent motorsport facilities around Australia.
“Motorsport is such an important part of the Australian economy, with
the recent EY study highlighting the sport’s total gross output of $8.6 billion every year.
“This week also sees the Repco Supercars Championship begin an exciting new chapter in its history and another big crowd will be in Newcastle ready to cheer some of our best drivers going head-to-head.
“This year’s Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix will again set a record for the highest attended event in Australia – a shining example of the popularity of the sport that we can build on and use to grow all disciplines and events, particularly at club and state level.
“While those national events are important, every weekend there are thousands of competitors and volunteers taking part in motorsport. From a club hill climb to a state karting event, or perhaps it’s bikes doing laps on one of the many circuits around the country or a bustling drag racing meet or a well-attended Speedway event – the sport is thriving in 2023.
“We’re very grateful to all members of Federal Parliament for their ongoing support.”
Photos: Epic Sports Photography“We’re very grateful to all members of Federal Parliament for their ongoing support.”
This year’s Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (ARC) will be proudly presented by Bosch Motorsport Australia as the new naming rights partner.
The 2023 Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship will begin with a bang this month, with the Buckby ŠKODA Rally Launceston to get the season underway.
Bosch Motorsport is a division of the global Bosch Group, a leading supplier of technology and services worldwide. From weekend enthusiasts to Formula 1, Bosch has been providing advanced electronics, components and service for motorsport and high-performance applications internationally since 1901.
Bosch is known for its historic innovations including the world’s first mass-produced electronic fuel injection control and more recent developments such as its award-winning Motorsport ABS system. Bosch Motorsport Australia also directly supports customers in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
This won’t be the first time the Bosch brand has taken on the naming rights partnership for the ARC, with the 2011 and 2012 Championships supported by Bosch.
Bosch Motorsport Australia’s Matt Turner said the new
partnership was an exciting prospect for everyone involved.
“We’ve all been watching the ARC very closely and have been excited with its growth, the number of competitors involved and the passion for rallying across the country,” Turner said.
“On behalf of everyone at Motorsport Australia, we extend our thanks to Matt and the Bosch Motorsport team for their support of the ARC this season,” Arocca said.
“To have a quality brand such as Bosch Motorsport partnering with our thriving, premier rally Championship is a great boost for the discipline.
“To be able to take on the naming rights to the 2023 Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship is a terrific opportunity for us to showcase our brand and connect with rally competitors, fans and volunteer officials alike.
“We’re proud to supply our products to a number of existing competitors in the ARC and I’m sure many more competitors will also be able to benefit from our extensive product offerings, including fuel pumps, injectors and ECUs specifically designed for the tough conditions found in rallying.”
Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca welcomed Bosch Motorsport Australia to the ARC family.
“Bosch Motorsport’s wide range of products and support are known across the industry and held in the highest regard. We can’t wait to get the 2023 season started as they again extend their support to rallying.
“I’d also like to thank RSEA Safety as the ARC’s previous naming rights partner from 2020 to 2022. RSEA stuck with the Championship through some difficult years during the pandemic and then of course were terrific partners during one of the biggest seasons in recent memory last year.”
The 2023 Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship season begins with the Buckby ŠKODA Rally Launceston on 24-26 March.
“We’ve all been watching the ARC very closely and have been excited with its growth... and the passion for rallying across the country”
From weekend racers to world championships, Bosch has been providing advanced electronics, components and service for motorsport and high performance applications internationally since 1901. Worldwide experience and race proven technology backed by local support is in your race car when you use Bosch Motorsport components.
Dan Day takes the SJ1000 to a new outright record and 7th victory at Legend of the Lakes Hillclimb.
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The brand new Motorsport Australia Trophy Series has been handed a major boost with Shannons Insurance to join as naming rights partner in 2023.
The inaugural Shannons Trophy Series will be made up of three rounds and take place at major circuits around the country, with a number of popular national categories to feature.
Motorsport Australia has also released the logo for the Shannons Trophy Series that will be used at events throughout 2023.
As Australia's leading insurance provider for motoring enthusiasts, Shannons has long been a supporter of Australian motorsport and has sponsored a number of major events and championships over the years.
Some of its most recent notable partnerships include its long-term affiliation with the Shannons SpeedSeries, previously known for many years as the Shannons Nationals.
Shannons Insurance’s Simon Jreige was pleased to get behind the Shannons Trophy Series.
“We are excited to be a part of the new Shannons Trophy Series which further grows our continued partnership with Motorsport Australia,” Jreige said.
“Motorsport in Australia is a key part of many motoring enthusiasts interests and we at Shannons are just as passionate about it. We look forward in continuing working with Motorsport Australia in providing another platform for many motoring and motorsport enthusiasts across a variety of categories.”
Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations, Michael Smith echoed Simon’s comments and was excited to have Shannons
“Shannons has already given so much to Australian motorsport over the years and we are thrilled it has chosen to expand its support to the Trophy Series,” Smith said.
“These are very exciting times for Australian motorsport and I’d like to thank Shannons for its decision to sponsor the series, which further showcases its unwavering commitment to the sport.
“I have no doubt the Shannons Trophy Series will provide fans around the country with great racing and plenty of spectacular entertainment.
“We have some really impressive categories and some great tracks as part of the series so we’re looking forward to a big year.”
Starting off at Sydney Motorsport Park in June, the Shannons Trophy Series will head north to Queensland Raceway in August, before finishing up at The Bend Motorsport Park in October.
Categories to feature throughout the three-event series include the Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge Australia Series, Radical Australia Cup, GC Marine Australian Prototypes Series, TGRA Scholarship Series, Australian Production Cars and the brand-new Australian Formula Open.
Further details about each round and the free broadcasts will be released in the coming weeks.
The Shannons Trophy Series begins at Sydney Motorsport Park on 16-18 June.
Click here for category line ups, schedules and spectator information.
Photo: Speed Shots Photography“We have some really impressive categories and some great tracks as part of the series”
The Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC) is pleased to welcome Polaris Australia as its naming rights partner for the 2023 season.
To be known as the Polaris Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship, the championship gets underway later this month with the brand new Markwell Group Gold City 450 in Charters Towers.
A world leader in off-road innovation, Polaris is an international manufacturer considered the number one selling brand of SXS buggies in both Australia and New Zealand.
Engineered to handle the roughest terrain, Polaris’ industry-led products range from powersport buggies to commercial purpose-built transport vehicles to off-road utility buggies used by farmers, hunters and corporations across the globe.
Polaris has had a large presence in the Australian off road motorsport scene in recent years, having been the inaugural founding sponsor of the SXS Motorsport Australia Championship in 2015. In light of the SXS Championship’s
integration into the AORC last year, Polaris also joined the national championship as a partner. Now, the popular off road performance brand will become AORC’s major sponsor for the five-round season and Polaris Australia & New Zealand Marketing Manager Kris Matich was pleased to strengthen the partnership.
“Polaris is Australia’s number one selling off road vehicle brand and as such there is a logical connection to align with the Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship,” Matich said.
“As the premier off road racing championship in Australia, we are pleased and proud to be associated with the AORC.
“We have watched the Championship evolve and grow in stature over recent years and we look forward to working with Motorsport Australia and the various event promoters to help make the 2023 season the best ever.
“We wish all competitors the very best for what should be a wonderful season ahead.”
Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations Michael Smith was
thrilled to have Polaris sign up as a major partner.
“To have Polaris not only continue its support of the AORC, but to increase its presence and commit as a major partner for the 2023 season is a boost for the Championship,” Smith said.
“On behalf of Motorsport Australia, I’d like to thank Kris and the whole Polaris Australia and New Zealand team for their continued support of the AORC.
“We highly value this partnership and look forward to seeing more Polaris vehicles in the biggest off road championship around the country.”
The 2023 Polaris Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship begins with the Markwell Group Gold City 450 on 10-12 March.
To learn more about Polaris and its range of vehicles, click here.
Photo: Bob Taylor“We look forward to seeing more Polaris vehicles in the biggest off road championship around the country”
The FIA Girls on Track Australia program is officially underway for 2023 with the first event for the year taking place during last month’s AWC Race Tasmania.
A huge turnout of 60 schoolgirls attended Symmons Plains for the initiative’s Inspire and Pathways program, which gave them a special insight into the world of motorsport.
With FIA Girls on Track ambassadors
Nadine Armstrong and Emma Notarfrancesco on hand to help run the day, the girls completed a number of activities throughout the day, such as a pit stop challenges and STEM and Media workshops.
In addition to the regular FIA Girls on Track activities, all participants were treated to a special walk down the pit lane, and met some of the drivers around the Race Tasmania paddock, including motorsport veteran Steven Johnson and Tabitha Ambrose, who made her racing debut in Tasmania.
The girls were also treated to a special presentation from Shannons SpeedSeries’ TV Host and Extreme E Series competitor, Molly Taylor, who spoke about her career.
The next FIA Girls on Track event will be in Canberra on 16-17 March, with leading Canberra-based IT support and service provider, Netier, to support the two-day event once again.
The FIA has released information around Frontal Head Restraint (FHR) systems and helmet compatibility.
Motorsport Australia recommends members check the Motorsport Australia National Regulations (Technical Appendix - Schedule D) for the applicable Helmet Standards for Motorsport Australia National Competitions.
FIA-approved FHR systems (Technical List no. 29) must be worn by drivers and co-drivers competing in competitions registered on the FIA Calendar as defined in Article 3 “Frontal Head Restraint (FHR)” of Chapter III “Drivers’ Equipment” to the International Sporting Code (ISC).
In order for the FHR to work effectively, it is important that it is installed in accordance with the “Guide and installation specification for HANS®, Hybrid and Hybrid Pro devices in racing competition”.
ASN Safety Bulletins Nos 14 and 15 provide the best practices for selecting and installing the devices.
In addition, it is fundamental that the FHR, FHR tether, helmet and Helmet-M6-Terminal are FIA approved. As there are different standards for helmets, Helmet-M6-Terminals, FHR tethers and FHR devices, it is important to ensure that the compatibility amongst these parts respect Article 3.3 “Compatibility and permitted use of items approved to the FIA 8858-2002, 8858-2010, 8859-2015, 8860-2010 and 88602018 standards” of Chapter III “Drivers’ Equipment” to the ISC.
Compatibility and permitted use of items approved under FIA Standards 8858-2002, 8858-2010, 8859-2015, 8860-2010 and 8860-2018.
Photo: PropixoMotorsport Australia is providing further information regarding the 2023 changes to window net requirements for closed vehicles in a circuit race event.
The primary function of a window net is to protect the driver from having any body part protrude through the window opening during an incident.
The requirements are in place to ensure that all closed vehicles competing in a circuit race event have a window net installed capable of performing its primary function.
The changes will apply across the circuit race discipline and many vehicles that had previously not required a window net will now be required to fit one.
For circuit racing, the fitment of the window net to the door frame of a production vehicle is no longer permitted and the window net must now be fitted to the safety cage structure.
Window nets must only be securely fixed to the safety cage structure. Window nets mounted to the driver’s door frame or other vehicle components are not permitted.
The load requirement of 500N now includes the method of fixing to the safety cage structure.
The window net when installed in the vehicle must be able to withstand this load when applied at any point.
The area of the driver’s window opening required to be covered by a window net has now been defined relative to the driver’s seat position, steering wheel position and safety cage structure.
A window net must cover the area within the following:
Forward from a vertical line drawn from the rear most point of the driver’s door window opening (i.e. original door frame) OR where the seat back is visible through the driver’s door window opening (i.e. the seat back can be seen through the window when the door is closed), this vertical line is to be drawn from the rear most point of the seat back. Rearward of a vertical line drawn through the centre of the steering wheel rim
Below a straight line drawn between the intersections of the two vertical lines, being the rearward line and the steering wheel line as described above, with the upper most longitudinal or lateral half roll bar members of the safety cage structure.
a racing net is not permitted and a window net must be fitted.
A Racing Net, often referred to as a seat or triangle net is installed in contact with the seat to provide additional lateral support to a driver during an impact. Racing nets will meet FIA Standard 8863-2013
Where permitted, racing nets must be installed in compliance with FIA Installation Specifications.
A racing net is only permitted for use on the driver’s side door window under the following circumstances.
• When permitted by category or classification standing regulations
• When competing in a vehicle which is compliant with Schedule I, Article 4.b
• Where the racing net provides the required window opening coverage as detailed in Schedule I, Article 4.a.i and will provide the same function of a window net
A Window Net is installed to cover the window opening, designed to protect the driver from having any body part protrude through the window opening in an incident. It must be mounted to the safety cage structure and be capable of withstanding a load of 500N at any point.
RACING NET – FIA 8863-2013
In most vehicles a triangular racing net will not provide the required driver’s window coverage to comply with the requirements of a window net, and in that case the use of only
A racing net is permitted to be installed on the passenger’s side of the driver’s seat in compliance with FIA regulations (refer Article 6.).
All other event requirements remain unchanged.
The Alfa Romeo Owner’s Club of Australia held its second sprint for the year last month with a solid turnout of 85 drivers participating in what was a busy day of motorsport.
Held at Sandown Raceway, competitors got a number of opportunities to jump on the iconic circuit as the club held 20 track sessions throughout the day.
With the MX5 Car Club running a mini competition within the event,
it was one of its own members who topped the overall time sheets with Brendan Beavis steering his Mazda MX5 to an unbeaten time of 1:17.3800.
Beavis’ time was far stronger than any of the other 85 competitors as the next time belonged to Toyota 86 pilot Nick Puccio, who was almost five seconds off in second place.
Far less time separated Puccio with the next best driver as Royce Lyne steered his BMW E36 M3 to a time of one tenth slower, while another BMW driver in Chris Gaetjens was one and half seconds off in fourth place.
Rounding out the top five was the highest placed Alfa Romeo, as Dean Strickland edged out fellow Alfa Romeo 4C driver Justin Gioffre by just over one tenth.
Following on from the event, Steward Colin Edwards was pleased with how it turned out.
“Overall, it was a good day for the club, so a big thanks to the officials for doing a great job,” Edwards said.
“We had good numbers even though it was just a bit below average than what we had about a month ago. It was an excellent event and we only
had one or two minor incidents, so everybody went away pretty happy.
“It was great to get through 20 sessions as we moved through it all pretty quickly. Honestly, we reckon it’s pretty good value for money as there is lots of time on the track.
“We are an active club and we typically have up to 10 sprints a year, including our 24-Hour relay at Winton, so we encourage people to get involved and take part in the event.”
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The Wollongong Sporting Car Club held its first event at the Huntley Hillclimb for the year last month in what was a highly successful day for the club.
A strong field of 29 competitors contested the hill climb as they were allowed six runs up the historic course throughout the day, however eventual winner Greg Boyle needed
just one as his first official timed lap remained unbeaten all day.
Fresh from competing at the Liqui Moly Bathurst 12 Hour in his Nissan GTR Skyline, Boyle’s opening time of 23.47 seconds proved too strong for any other competitor as he also came within three tenths of Phil Heafey’s record set in 2012.
Although the winner missed out on a record, the same couldn’t be said for the event’s runner-up in Wayne Penrose, who broke his class record by eight hundredths of a second.
Penrose’s best time came on his second run of the day, as the VW Superbug driver fell short of Boyle by four tenths of a second.
Rounding out the top three was Jason Hickey, who finished just over a tenth behind Penrose, while Riley MacQueen and David Hussey made up the top five.
MacQueen was the only other driver to leave the event as a recordholder as he trumped his own record set in November last year.
A number of juniors were also entered in the event and it was Jett Slater in
his BMW E36 who was the fastest of the lot – beating Type 1&2 0-1600 class winner Mitchell Brown by eight tenths.
Michelle Johnston, who finished third in class, was pleased with how the day went and thanked all those who helped get the season underway.
“Overall, it was a great day had by all,” Johnston said.
“As always, many thanks to all those officials, volunteers, club members, working bee attendees and behind the scenes workers who contributed to another successful run day.
“No one person makes or breaks an event like this. It is truly a team effort.
“A very special thanks to our canteen organisers, Anna and Michelle, for always keeping us well hydrated and fed.”
The next event at the Huntley Hillclimb will be on 1-2 April and will also serve as the third round of the Motorsport Australia NSW Hillclimb Championship.
Click here to view the full results.
“No one person makes or breaks an event like this. It is truly a team effort.”Photo: Grahame Logg Photo: Grahame Logg
Eric Hilditch has enjoyed a solid start to the Far North Queensland Motor Sport Club’s (FNQMSC) Bitumen Khanacross Series last month as he comfortably won the opening round of the season.
With challenging conditions limiting the entry list to 15, Hilditch proved too strong throughout the event, which was held at Springmount Raceway in Mareeba. Behind the wheel of a Lancer Evolution 7, Hilditch took out a 30 second victory over Drew Dundas, despite having received a DNF penalty.
While there was a significant gap between Hilditch and Dundas for the win, there was a far smaller gap between the runner-up and the third placed Anthony Villella.
At the end of the eight tests, just over one second separated the Lotus Elise of Dundas and VW Golf of Villella with the former’s one minute and 48 second penalty almost costing him the place.
Although Dundas didn’t lose a place due to his position, the same couldn’t be said for fellow Lotus driver Justin Brittan, whose
two DNF penalties ultimately cost him the outright victory.
Finishing fourth overall, Brittan ended up 35 seconds off Hilditch, while Tom Rowan just missed out on fourth place by only half a second.
Event organiser Shane Buchanan was pleased with the event despite having a smaller entry list than usual.
“We had 15 competitors lining up with vehicles ranging from a VE Commodore wagon to an Amaroo,” Buchanan said.
“We would have liked a few more competitors, but the current environment and it being a bit earlier in the year probably meant it was hard for a few people to get there.
“Nevertheless, it was still a great day and everyone enjoyed themselves and a big thanks to all those who helped run it.”
The next instalment of the sixround series will be at Springmount Raceway on 12 March.
“Everyone enjoyed themselves and a big thanks to all those who helped run it.”
The Shannons SpeedSeries kicked into gear last month with the first of eight events this year proving a massive success for teams, drivers and race fans. With the 2023 season starting off with the AWC Race Tasmania at Symmons Plains, six categories were in action throughout the weekend, four of which are regular Shannons SpeedSeries categories.
As an impressive crowd of 11,676 flocked the event over the three days, the likes of the Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series, the National Trans Am Series, the Gulf Western Oils Touring Cars Masters and the S5000 Australian Drivers' Championship put on a stellar show.
State-level categories, the Tassie Tin Tops and the Hyundai Excels Series were also in attendance, adding plenty of diversity to the event.
From a results point of view, there was a mix of dominant drivers showcasing their quality, to categories that went right down to the wire.
Joey Mawson (S5000) and James Moffat (Trans Am) secured clean sweeps of their respective categories, while Bailey Sweeny (TCR) and
Steven Johnson (TCM) picked up two wins from three races.
There was also a fair share of drama amongst the categories throughout, which included a huge crash in race two of the Trans Ams between
For the fans unable to attend the Shannons SpeedSeries season opener, they were entertained by the Stan Sport coverage, which covered most of Saturday and Sunday’s action, while 9Gem broadcast Saturday’s late afternoon action.
International viewers also got a chance to see the action around the world, with the broadcast live streamed via the website and Speedcafe.com.
Michael Smith was thrilled with how the new-look Shannons SpeedSeries started the year.
“I believe the first SpeedSeries event for the year was a huge success and I think there is plenty to get excited about if the events throughout the rest of the year are in a similar manner,” Smith said.
James Simpson and Ben Grice, while driveshaft issues for Will Brown undid his pole sitting TCR qualifying run that put him out for race one and three – a fate also suffered by fellow Audi pilot Zac Soutar.
“Fans were entertained all weekend with the six categories putting on quite the spectacle, and there wasn’t too much drama taking away from what was overall a fantastic event.”
In addition to the on track action, the Tasmanian event also saw the introduction of the new Shannons SpeedSeries initiative – the Shannons Volunteer of the Round.
“Fans were entertained all weekend with the six categories putting on quite the spectacle.”
Recognising the hard working officials who help run every event, inaugural winner was 16-yearold Scrutineer, Sophie Nichols.
“I was so shocked to find out that I have won the award. I never expected to win anything like this,” Sophie said.
Tickets for the event are available from motorsporttickets.com.au, with the event to be screened on Stan Sport on Saturday and Sunday, while Saturday afternoon’s
coverage will be screened on 9Gem around Australia.
Click here to purchase tickets for the Bathurst 6 Hour.
1. Steve Johnson
2. Ryan Hansford
3. Danny Buzadzic
1. Eddie Maguire
“I am so proud to be able to achieve something like this. It inspires me to keep doing more officiating.
“A big thanks to my dad for always pushing me to come out – If it wasn’t for him, I would have no clue what motorsport is.”
The Motorsport Australia WA Speed Event Series kicked off for the 2023 season last month with a bumper field of 91 competitors entered in the event. With perfect conditions greeting the field at CARCO.com.au Raceway, it was a familiar face in John Webb who claimed an emphatic victory behind the wheel of his new Radical SR8.
The defending champion’s new car performed faultlessly throughout the season opener, as his best time of the day was more than one second faster than eventual runner-up Laine Brandis in a Nissan Skyline. Brandis himself just snuck into second place overall as he edged out nine-time champion Peter Morley by four hundredths of a
second – however Morley was ruled out early after a small engine fire forced him to retire early.
Up until the fire, Morley had actually been Webb’s biggest challenger as the duo were significantly close, however once Morley’s OMS CF 10 became undriveable, Webb seemed quite comfortable for the rest of the race.
“The New Radical SR8 Rx performed faultlessly to set the fastest time and secure outright for this event, banking 25 points,” Webb said post-event via social media.
“I beat my previous PB (in the SR3RSX) by 1.4 seconds (and gained) a new PB of 56.13 seconds, so super happy with the results.
“Thanks to all the race officials and fellow competitors. A special thanks to Scott Carr for his help getting me locked in the car safely.”
Only one more driver was able to go under one minute with Campbell Nunn steering his Porsche 997.2 GT3 Cup car to a 59.7241 second lap.
The Motorsport Australia WA Speed Event Series continues early next month with a double round to take place at Collie Motorplex on 1-2 April.
Click here to view the results.
Rounding out the top five was Bradley Scrivener in the GoGear Mazda RX-7.
Photos: BAGRPhotography / Jonathan Gladstone
“Thanks to all the race officials and fellow competitors.”
9 March: Whiteline Tarmac Rallysprint Series 2022/2023 - Round 5
10-12 March: Thrifty Newcastle 500
11 March: Club Motorkhana - Round 1
12 March: 2023 NSW Supersprint
Championship Round 1
12 March: PCNSW Tony McKnight
Championship 2023 Motorkhana Round 1
12 March: 2023 Coffs Coast
Khanacross Round 1
12 March: Showgrounds Gravel Motorkhana
12 March: Kingy's Khanacross
18 March: 2023 Blue Range Rallysprint
18 March: Round 2 Porsche Club NSW Inc Supersprint Championship
18 March: RTDC Twilight Motorkhana Round 1 & Come and Try
18 March: Triumph 100 Year Centenary
19 March: March Come and Try Motorkhana
24-26 March: Nabiac Airport Challenge
25-26 March: CMHAC Mt Gladstone Hillclimb
31 March - 2 April: Condo 750
10-12 March: Gold City 450
11 March: FNQMSC Bitumen - Round 1
12 March: GCTMC Tamborine Khanacross
17-19 March: 2023 Queensland Circuit
Racing State Championships - Round 1
25 March: Roo Systems
Australia Manumbar Rally
25-26 March: Mt Cotton
Hillclimb Series Round 2
26 March: Mount Stuart
Hillclimb Series Round 1
NSW: 9 March - Whiteline Tarmac Rallysprint Series
2022/2023 - Round 5
The final round of what has been an exciting season takes place this month - Can tworound winner Josh Redhead make it three?
QLD: 25 March - Roo Systems Australia Manumbar Rally
In what will be the first running of the Manumbar Rally since 2019, eight stages spread over two heats await crews as the Motorsport Australia QLD Rally Championship gets underway for 2023,
Photo: CH Images
11 March: Jaws Contracting
Enduro Round 1
12 March: MSCASA Supersprint - Round 1
12 March: KI Motor Club Sprint
18 March: Motorsport Australia Sporting
Car Club of SA Inc. 2023 State Motor
Racing Championship Round 1
18 - 19 March: SDCC 2023 Khanacross
Practice + Come N Try Khanacross
19 March: Motorsport Australia SA
Motorkhana Championship 2023 Round 1
24-26 March: 2023 Adelaide Motorsport Festival Victoria Park Sprint
18-19 March: 2023 Tasmanian Circuit Racing Championship Round 1
19 March: Motor Sports Club of Tasmania Motorkhana Series Round 1
24-26 March: 2023 Rally Launceston
26 March: CMI Baskerville
Hillclimb and Supersprints
9-12 March: 34th Phillip Island
Classic Festival of Motorsport
11 March: MGCC Khanacross & Motorkhana
17-19 March: Rob Roy Revival 2023
18 March: MSCA Super Sprint
18-19 March: Round 1
Shepparton Cup Challenge
19 March: Sandown 360 Regularity
19 March: RAAF Auto Club Sprint
25 March: The Kevyn Brown Memorial 38th Eddington Sprints
25 March: Send it Saturday's
26 March: Wilsons Prom Run
30 March - 2 April: Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix 2023
12 March: Red Mist Series 13 Event 1
16 March: Shannons Targa
Rallysprint Round 5
18 March: 2023 Targa South West
18 March: Make Smoking History
Targa South West 2023
19 March: WRX Club WA Jacks Hill Climb
22 March: Summer Autocross
Series Round 6
25-26 March: Collie Motorplex Icebreaker
Race & Time Challenge/Regularity
Photo: Revved Photography VIC: 9-12 March - 34th Phillip Island Classic Festival of MotorsportThe new-look Polaris Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC) will begin its latest chapter this month, with the Markwell Group Gold City 450 to get the season underway.
A huge field of 56 crews are entered in the inaugural event in Charters Towers, with the course proving extremely new for almost all the field. Crews will be battling it out over nine laps of the 50-kilometre course made up of a variety of terrain, with the event to be divided into three sections.
The star-studded entry list features a number of high-profile crews
looking to start their seasons on a high – including defending champions Ryan Taylor and Kye Floyd.
“We are pretty keen to get back behind the wheel in Charters Towers and begin our title defence,” Taylor said.
“As for us, we plan to throw everything at it because back-to-back titles would be amazing, and it would prove that last year wasn’t a fluke.
“I think it will have benefits and being the first round, we want to get into the groove of things and have a good start to our title defence.”
The Queenslanders headline a massive 18-car Pro-Buggy class, with
plenty of intriguing entries likely to challenge them in Charters Towers. Some of those regular contenders include Taylor’s title rival Jake Swinglehurst, Jake’s brother Tom and South Australian Garry Turnbull, who will be hoping to build on his two podiums last year.
“I believe it’s reasonably tight, which doesn’t necessarily suit me and my driving style, but it should be fun nonetheless,” Turnbull said.
“I think the most exciting aspect about this event is that with very few drivers having competed there, it makes for a level playing field and anyone can win.
“I know it’s a bit far for some people, including me, but I don’t mind the drive and I know the area is quite a scenic place, so people should enjoy it.”
Also likely to contend are the returning Travis Robinson and Josh Howells – the latter of which is hoping to reclaim the form that saw him as one of the strongest competitors in the country,
“I am actually really looking forward to heading up to Charters Towers because it’s been quite a while since I was able to race and I think an event like this is perfect for my return,” Howells explained.
“It’s an event that not many have done, which makes it a level playing field and I like that aspect.
“The organising club (North Queensland Off Road Racing Association) have been doing a
lot of work to get the track ready and the course looks like it’s tight between trees, which I love.”
Boasting the largest field in the entry-list are the SXS Pros with 22 crews entered and led by reigning champion James Cook, while fellow contenders Greg Campbell, Glenn Brinkman and Glen Ackroyd will once again act as Cook’s biggest challengers.
With the event seeing its highest ever field, compared to its previous status as a state round, North Queensland Off Road Racing Association secretary Don Young was thrilled with the entry list.
“We are absolutely over the moon with the amount of crews who have entered the event and we’re excited to put on a good show for all those who will be making the journey,” Young said.
“The club has been working extremely hard in hot steamy conditions to get this complex up to a level beyond expectation as this is the biggest field we’ve had here, so we’re confident crews will enjoy the event.”
The competition will commence with Prologue on the Saturday morning, before the first and only section begins not long after, while the remaining two sections will run on Sunday.
The 2023 Polaris Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship season begins with the Markwell Group Gold City 450 in Charters Towers on 10-12 March. Click
“It’s an event that not many have done, which makes it a level playing field.”
Australian motorsport enthusiasts can now re-visit some of the country’s most historic race circuits via Bill Pearson’s Birthplaces of Australian Motor Racing.
The 428-page book gives the reader a detailed insight into the history of now defunct car racing venues around the country, answering the questions as to how many have closed and why they have closed.
From the Albany Around the Houses circuit, that closed up 1950 and the
Sharon Speedway in Bundaberg, which was operational from the mid 1970s to 2003 to the Lobethal Street Circuit in SA, which hosted the 1939 Australian Grand Prix and was often referred to as Australia’s Nürburgring, the book covers a variety of tracks used for four-wheel racing. Available online to purchase, this entertaining book will offer a trip down memory lane for any race fans – and one the preserves the history of Australian motorsport.
Click here for more information on Bill Pearson’s Birthplaces of Australian Motor Racing
The Repco Supercars Championship roars into life this month with the Thrifty Newcastle 500 to introduce the Australian motorsport community to a brand new era for this famous category.
The picturesque yet chaotic streets of the Newcastle circuit have always been an attractive proposition for drivers and fans alike – with this month to mark the grand return of the event that has been off the calendar for the past three years.
For that, it seems fitting that Newcastle is the location for where Supercars unleash the exciting new Gen3 cars.
The Ford Mustang against the Chevrolet Camaro may not have the historical relevance on Australian shores as Holden vs Ford, but its significance on an international scale has been around for a long time.
Late last month, Supercars had its season launch in a glamorous affair as these slick new cars left attendees and media in awe and excited for what this upcoming generation has in store for years to come.
Of the 25 entries, 14 will be behind the wheel of this year's Camaro, while 11 will run in the Ford Mustang, which was introduced ahead of the 2019 season.
This weekend will be the first of 12 events around the country, with 28 races to be spread throughout.
Each race weekend format will vary between one, two, three and four races, with the Newcastle 500 featuring two 250km races, one on Saturday, one on Sunday.
The support bill for the season opener will certainly add to the spectacle of the round, with the Gulf Western Oils Touring Car Masters, Battery World Aussie Racing Cars Super Series and the Dunlop Super2 Series to enjoy a number of opportunities in the spotlight.
As for the entry list, there are a number of differences compared to the 2022 season, with the biggest being Walkinshaw Andretti United’s shock switch from Holden to Ford.
Personnel wise, a number of Super2 graduates will begin their Supercars careers this weekend, including Cameron Hill (Matt Stone Racing), Matthew Payne (Grove Racing) and Declan Fraser (Tickford Racing).
South Australian Todd Hazelwood will begin his new life with Tim Blanchard Racing after Tim Slade left to join PremiAir Racing at the expense of Chris Pither.
Shortly after the season opener, all attention will turn to the Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix at the end of the month, where Supercars will once again form part of a massive support bill.
As usual, the Beaurepaires Melbourne SuperSprint will see the Supercars field contest four races of the Albert Park circuit.
The Thrifty Newcastle 500 takes place on the streets of Newcastle on 10-12 March, while the Beaurepaires
Melbourne SuperSprint will be held at Albert Park on 30 March – 2 April. Photo: Daniel Kalisz Photographer Photo: Edge Photographics Photo: Edge Photographics Click here to view the class of 2023.The MG Car Club of Geelong (MGCCG) held its first motorkhana for the year last month as a solid field turned out to the club event.
Taking place at the Geelong Traffic Safety Centre in Geelong, 18 competitors were entered in the event as they tackled three runs of three different layouts over what was a busy afternoon.
Claiming the victory was Graeme Ruby, who produced a remarkable performance behind the wheel of his MGB, beating a highly impressive Nick Wood in the nine-test event.
Rounding out the podium for the event was Don Woods, who put on a gallant effort but was unable to get the better of the top two drivers.
In fourth place was the highestranked woman for the event in current Ladies champion Shirley Reynolds. Reynolds ended up doing enough throughout the day to beat her husband Gordon Reynolds inside the top five.
While a number of competitors were using the event as a practice run for the MG Car Club National Meeting in Adelaide at Easter, many others were gunning for outright honours in what turned out to be a thrilling event.
The 2023 MG National Meeting will take place in Adelaide in April, while the MGCCG will run a combined motorkhana and khanacross in conjunction with the MGCC Victoria on 11 March.
The Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (ARC) returns with a bang this month as a huge field of Australia’s best crews are expected to tackle the Buckby ŠKODA Rally Launceston.
Considered some of the best rally roads in Australia, the rally will have an almost identical schedule
to the 2022 edition, with 207 competitive kilometres across 12 stages making up the itinerary.
Split over two heats, crews will complete 119 competitive kilometres over six stages on the Saturday, before taking on the remaining 89 kilometres on the Sunday for Heat Two.
In what is one of the most anticipated seasons to date, the entry list for this year’s season opener is likely to be stacked with plenty of big names and crews eager to claim the title.
Headlining the list of crews already confirmed are the two Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia entries
led by Harry and Lewis Bates –both of who enter this year a bit different to the 2022 season.
Harry welcomes new fulltime co-driver Coral Taylor to the fold, while Lewis enters as the reigning champion.
Joining them as contenders for the event are a number of returning high-profile names –each having a point to prove.
ARC champions Nathan Quinn in his Hyundai i20 G4 and Scott Pedder in his Renault Clio R3 will be a big threat to both Bates brothers, as will the returning Tom Clarke, whose last event was Rally Launceston last year before a big crash ended his 2022 campaign.
With Clarke back in the Fiesta for the season, the New South Welshman was keen to get going.
“Thankfully I don’t get frazzled by big accidents and I can get back in the car the next day, so that was never a problem, it was more getting the car back,” Clarke said.
and Troy Dowell, as both gained more experience behind the wheel last year with some solid results – the latter picking up a maiden ARC podium in the process.
Of course, the likes of Peter and Alex Rullo in their Hyundai i20 Rally R5s will be ones to watch, as will Jamie Luff and James Dimmock who have upgraded to Toyota Yaris AP4s.
Fans lucky enough to attend the event will have multiple chances to see crews in action with two spectator points available, giving fans four opportunities to see the cars go by.
“I am very excited to get back later this month. I honestly think we can challenge ourselves and I am really looking forward to it.”
In addition to the trio, other contenders include Daniel Gonzalez
There will also be more opportunities for the public to see the cars throughout the round, most notably via the Rally Show, which runs on the Friday night at The Avenues on Brisbane Street in Launceston, and at the ARC Service Park during each service break.
The Buckby ŠKODA Rally Launceston takes place in Launceston on 24-26 March.
Photos: Angryman Photography“So, I am very excited to get back later this month. I honestly think we can challenge ourselves and I am really looking forward to it”
A ‘hard reset’ of Targa style tarmac rallies in Australia will take place in the coming months, following the release of the Targa Review Panel Report.
The Motorsport Australia Board has now reviewed and considered the Report, with the Board agreeing to accept all recommendations and begin their implementation immediately.
Motorsport Australia released the report in full last month, allowing members of the tarmac rally community and the motorsport community more broadly the opportunity to understand the reasons behind the recommendations.
A total of 94 recommendations will be implemented across the discipline to allow events to resume.
In order to implement these recommendations, no Targa style tarmac rallies will be permitted before 1 July 2023 as work gets underway. Tours may continue to run on closed roads, with a maximum speed of 110km/h, with more monitoring of competitors at any tour events.
The 94 recommendations cover various components of tarmac rallying, including course design, vehicle eligibility, licencing, the role of the competition checker and the training and preparation of both drivers and co-drivers.
Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca thanked the Targa Review Panel for their hard work, along with all those who provided input.
“Firstly, we again offer our condolences to Anthony Seymour’s family, friends and the wider Targa community who all suffered a
terrible loss at last year’s Targa Tasmania event,” Arocca said.
“No family should expect their loved one not to return home after an event, so it’s important we acknowledge the long-lasting impacts incidents like these have on various communities.”
Arocca noted the importance of the release of the finalised report.
“I’d like to thank the members of the Targa Review Panel – Garry Connelly, Matt Selley and Neal Bates – for their hard work and dedication in researching, preparing and ultimately delivering this report,” Arocca added.
“Today’s release of the Targa Review Panel’s report is the first step in the return of Targa style tarmac rallies in Australia. Motorsport Australia is committed to seeing these events return later this year, with 1 July 2023 being the initial date set to allow for the recommendations to be implemented.
“The 94 recommendations cover many facets of the discipline and will aim to improve the overall safety of Targa style tarmac rallies.
“Ultimately, it is now time for a hard reset of tarmac rallying in Australia to improve safety standards across various parts of the discipline.
“Having the right vehicles being driven by appropriately licenced drivers will be a key part of these recommendations being implemented, along with appropriate course selection by event organisers in conjunction with Motorsport Australia.
“If we don’t implement these changes, there would be a significant cost to the motorsport community, particularly through the risk of further fatalities or serious incidents and also through increased insurance
premiums which would impact every competitor in motorsport, not just those in tarmac rallies.
“We’ve worked closely with the key event organisers of tarmac rallying in Australia, including TARGA Australia, and they have all been consulted throughout the process. Indeed, they have told us they agree with many of the recommendations.
“All members of the motorsport community were also invited to submit their feedback and ideas to improve the discipline. The Panel received almost 100 written submissions, all of which were carefully examined and considered by the Panel and many of the recommendations have come directly from those submissions. This included feedback from various competitor groups and committees who are passionate about the sport returning in a safe manner.
“Our administration will now work closely with the Australian Rally Commission (ARCom) to implement these recommendations and see the return of Targa style tarmac rallies in the second half of 2023.”
Motorsport Australia will continue to provide regular updates and communicate how recommendations will be implemented over the coming weeks and months.
The full Targa Review Panel Report will remain available on motorsport.org.au.
Click here to read the full report (please note, the report contains imagery from the scene of the incident)
The Motorsport Australia member hotline is open from 9am to 5pm AEST
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