Motorsport Australia Speed Read - November 2023 by Motorsport Australia

SPEED READ N O V E M B E R

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AUSSIE OFFICIALS SHINE ON WORLD STAGE “This has been an extraordinary opportunity for our senior medical officials to observe the Singapore medical team to develop ideas that we will bring back to Australia,”

HIGH ALTITUDE FINALE SET FOR SHANNONS SPEEDSERIES

GRAND PRIX OFFICIALS REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

TIGHE CLAIMS SECOND SUPERSPRINT TITLE IN DOMINANT FASHION

All eyes will be on Supercheap Auto Bathurst International this weekend as the 2023 Shannons SpeedSeries season comes to a thrilling conclusion.

Individuals eager to volunteer at next year’s Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix can now submit their applications.

Dean Tighe has secured backto-back Motorsport Australia Supersprint Championship titles after dominating last month’s event.

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

G OT ET ET A OD

PLUS WIN AN INDIAN FTR SPORT Shannons are giving motoring enthusiasts the chance to win a trip for two to the 2024 Monaco Historics, one of the world’s most nostalgic motorsport events. The 11-day trip includes premium economy airfares, luxury accommodation in Paris, Nice and Monaco, first class high speed train tickets to Nice, exclusive Monaco Historic Race hospitality tickets and $10,000 spending money for eligible Shannons Club Members.1 Plus, win an all-new Indian Motorcycle FTR Sport in White and Indy Red! Including up to 12 months Shannons Comprehensive Bike Insurance and Shannons Roadside Assist.2 You could win over $90,000 in prizes!

ENTRIES

Take out new Motor Insurance*

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ENTRIES

Take out new Home Insurance+

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MOTORBIKE

ENTRY Existing Shannons Customers. One entry for each Car, Bike or Home Insured^

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To view conditions and take out an eligible motor or home insurance go to shannons.com.au/monaco or call 13 46 46. Competition closes 13 December 2023.

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INSURANCE FOR MOTORING ENTHUSIASTS | CALL 13 46 46 FOR A QUOTE | SHANNONS.COM.AU Shannons Pty Limited ABN 91 099 692 636 (‘Shannons’) is an authorised representative of AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807, the product issuer. All benefits mentioned in this document are a summary only. Limits, conditions and exclusions apply. Read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement before buying this insurance. The Target Market Determination is also available. Call 13 46 46 or go to shannons.com.au for a copy. Advice has been prepared without taking into account your particular objectives, financial situations or needs, so you should consider whether it is appropriate for you before acting on it. Competition conducted by Shannons, Level 23, 80 Ann Street, Brisbane QLD 4000. Entry Period: 12.00am 1/8/23 to 11.59pm 13/12/23 (Melbourne time). Entry is only open to eligible Australian residents aged 18 years or older. CTP excluded. Eligible Entrants must be opted in to receive Shannons marketing communications and must not opt out during the Entry Period. Maximum cost of call will not exceed 55 cents + GST from an Australian land line. Higher rates may apply for mobile phones or pay phones. Total prize valued up to $90,802.94 incl GST. Prizes drawn at 12pm, 17/1/24 at Engage Interactive, 24 Washpool Crescent, Woongarrah, NSW 2259. The winner will be notified by phone and email by 19/1/24 and published in The Australian newspaper on 22/1/24 and on the competition website. ACT Permit TP 23/01097.1, SA Licence T23/854 & NSW Authority TP/00259. Images for illustrative purposes only. 1 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 AUD spending money (i.e. total spending money of $10,000 AUD). 2 Actual period may be less than 365 days depending on the winner’s location and delivery/pick up date, however, won’t be less than 11 months residual benefit. The issue of Shannons Insurance is subject to Shannons normal acceptance criteria. The inclusion of this component of the prize does not constitute financial product advice or a recommendation to acquire any Shannons Insurance product. Shannons Roadside Assist (Roadside) is an optional cover only available in conjunction with Shannons Comprehensive Motor Insurance. The issue of optional Roadside is subject to the winner being issued the comprehensive motorcycle insurance portion of the prize. Shannons Roadside starts 24 hours after the comprehensive policy starts. Terms, including the coverage, limitations and exclusions that apply are available at shannons.com.au. *Purchase a new Shannons Motor Insurance Policy or add a new risk to an existing Shannons Motor Insurance Policy (Motor Insurance) during the Entry Period, excluding CTP insurance and renewals. Must remain active and be fully paid at the Entry Period if paid annually or the instalments must be up to date at the end of the Entry Period. The issue of Shannons Insurance is subject to the product issuer’s normal underwriting criteria. +Purchase a new Shannons Home & Contents Insurance Policy (includes building only, contents only or building and contents cover) (Home Insurance) during the Entry Period. A combined building and contents policy constitutes one risk/policy for the purposes of this Competition. Must remain active and be fully paid at the Entry Period if paid annually or the instalments must be up to date at the end of the Entry Period. The issue of Shannons Insurance is subject to the product issuer’s normal underwriting criteria. ^Each existing risk (vehicle insured under a motor insurance policy excluding CTP or insured address under a home and contents insurance policy) must have a start date prior to the beginning of the Entry Period, remain active and be fully paid if paid annually at the end of the Entry Period or the instalments must be up to date at the end of the Entry Period. A combined building and contents policy constitutes one risk for the purposes of this Competition. Customers that do not wish to participate in the Competition can email enquiries@shannons.com.au. Full T&Cs at shannons.com.au/monaco. Call 13 46 46 to opt out and manage your marketing preferences (if you opt-out you will no longer be eligible to win this Competition).

CONTENTS 4

High altitude finale set for Shannons Speedseries

Available now: Motorsport Australia Scrutineers Tool Kit

Race Sydney provides thrilling international showdown

Perkins' great eight celebrated

Aussie officials shine in Singapore

Grand Prix officials registration now open

Successful women's program available for clubs

Shannons Trophy Series ends 2023 on high in South Australia

Amos claims Australian title after impressive hill climb win

Tighe claims second supersprint title in dominant fashion

We want you: Esports Championships and Cups looking for new promoter

Supercars enjoys bumper October

FIA release refresher on overalls safety

Lewis Bates and Anthony McLoughlin seal Toyota title in Adelaide

Welcome back, Calder Park

Thrilling ARC season finale awaits nation’s capital

Whitsunday Sporting Car Club put on a show

Sunil Vohra named next Motorsport Australia CEO

Huxley wins NSW Off Road season finale

Robinson and Pinto end titlewinning year with home victory

New and improved One Raceway to re-open in 2024

What's on in November

GT4 confirms stand-alone 2024 calendar

COVER

Motorsport Australia is proud to have supported a delegation of female Australian senior medical officials who were integrated into the medical team for this year’s Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix

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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All eyes will be on Supercheap Auto Bathurst International this weekend as the 2023 Shannons SpeedSeries season comes to a thrilling conclusion.

Six exciting national categories will come together in large numbers to participate in the event at the renowned Mount Panorama Circuit, which includes the second leg of Kumho TCR World Tour down under.

Less than a week after Race Sydney, the international category, alongside Australia’s own Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series will headline the event as a record 24 cars take on the famous circuit.

The round will have serious implications on both the international and local title races respectively, with only a single point separating Hungarian Norbert Michelisz and British former World Champion Rob Huff in their race to become the 2023 world champion. TCR Australia will see its seasonlong battle between HMO Customer Racing Hyundai teammates, Bailey Sweeny and Josh Buchan, as well as Garry Rogers Motorsport (GRM) entry Aaron Cameron go down to the wire. However, fans will also be treated to plenty of other exciting categories

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across the weekend, including the National Trans Am Series, Gulf Western Oil Touring Car Masters (TCM), Kumho V8 Touring Car Series, Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge Australia and Mobil 1 Australian Production Cars and Monochrome Australia Production Invited. The always-entertaining National Trans Am Series will see an intense title battle between teammates decided, with series leader James Moffat heading into the round as the favourite to take out the title ahead of GRM counterpart, Lochie Dalton. An intriguing showing of muscle cars from both sides of the Tasman Sea will feature across the weekend in TCM, with a fleet of seven drivers and cars from the well-renowned TCM New Zealand series to add to the already-stacked Australia field.

Photos: Daniel Kalisz Photographer

HIGH ALTITUDE FINALE SET FOR SHANNONS SPEEDSERIES

Photos: Daniel Kalisz Photographer

Meanwhile, 18-year-old Jude Bargwanna will be eager to claim the Kumho V8 Touring Car Series title in his rookie year, with the threeway battle between himself, Jamie Tilley and Jim Pollicina expected to go right down to the wire. Also concluding their 2023 seasons will be Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge Australia and Mobil 1 Australian Production Cars and Monochrome Australia Production Invited.

“It is very exciting to be able to conclude an incredible 2023 Shannons SpeedSeries season at such a well-renowned circuit and so many categories on offer,” Smith said. “It will be great to have TCR World Tour return for another round after a thrilling Race Sydney last weekend, where our Aussies showcased their immense talent on the international stage.

“This time, we have a host of exciting national categories adding to the excitement”

In addition to the competitive action, fans will be treated to six sessions of demonstrations of open-wheel machinery, old and new, including three decades of Australian open-wheel racing machinery and the Hot Wheels Stunt Team.

Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport & Commercial Operations Michael Smith looked forward to once again showcasing Australian talent on the international stage while concluding a thrilling 2023 season.

“This time, we have a host of exciting national categories adding to the excitement, where respective series winners will be crowned and no doubt put on a show in their usual fashion.”

Stan Sport and the Nine Network will again host all the action from the final round of the Shannons SpeedSeries’ 2023 season. Tickets are still available for purchase at motorsporttickets. com.au, with a three-day adult pass on offer for just $75.00.

Single-day tickets are available from $45, while weekend passes and camping are also available for the duration of the weekend. Concession prices apply and children 12 years of age and under will be admitted free. The final round of the 2023 Shannons SpeedSeries season will be Supercheap Auto Bathurst International and will take place on 10-12 November.

Find out more about the Supercheap Auto Bathurst International at speedseries.com.au

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 5

AVAILABLE NOW: MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SCRUTINEERS TOOL KIT A special Motorsport Australia Scrutineers Tool Kit is now available to purchase online thanks to the collaborative efforts of ToolPRO, Supercheap Auto and Motorsport Australia. Tailored for scrutineers around the country, the kit will allow individual car owners to keep their vehicles compliant with the latest rules and regulations by performing the checks required before an event. Making up the kit are a number of significant tools, including a ToolPRO 150mm Digital Vernier calliper, two stainless steel Supercheap Auto rulers‚ a Supercheap Auto spring divider & calliper set, an eight-metre ToolPRO tape measure and a ToolPRO level.

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The kit also comes with a ToolPRO toolbag, allowing the user to keep everything together for easy transport to and from an event. Volunteer scrutineers in the Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship and Shannons SpeedSeries have been lucky enough to receive a complimentary kit for their efforts helping previous events run. The Motorsport Australia Scrutineers Tool Kit can now be purchased online at a special rate of $99.99 when using the promo code: MOTORSPORT at checkout, with the offer to end on 31 December 2023.

KIT INCLUDES: •

ToolPRO Tool Bag Handy 300mm

•

ToolPRO 150mm Digital Vernier Caliper with Case

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ToolPRO Tape Measure (8m)

• •

SCA Ruler‚ Stainless Steel (150mm) SCA Ruler, Stainless Steel (300mm)

•

SCA Spring Divider & Caliper Set (3 Piece)

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ToolPRO Level (300mm)

Get your Motorsport Australia Scrutineers Tool Kit

New Officials’ Range 2 02 3 ’s M o to r s p o r t Au s t r a l i a O f f i c i a l s u n i fo r m h a s d ro p p e d . N ew g e a r av a i l a b l e a t :

motorsport.org.au/estore

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA OFFICIALS

The first of two Kumho TCR World Tour rounds down under saw great success, with plenty of highlights on and off the track at Race Sydney. An incredible 8,927 racing fans made the trip to Sydney Motorsport Park for a jam-packed two days of action under the lights, with four exciting categories putting on a show from start-to-finish. A drama filled Kumho TCR World Tour and Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series saw three action-packed races, with the Australian contingent proving they belong among some of the best drivers in the world.

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Photos: Daniel Kalisz Photographer / Race Project

RACE SYDNEY PROVIDES THRILLING INTERNATIONAL SHOWDOWN

Photos: Daniel Kalisz Photographer / Race Project

It was Ben Bargwanna who shined bright on Friday with a thrilling pole position in challenging conditions, before 2019 champion, Will Brown stole the show with an emphatic race one victory. Brown would go on to take victory again in the reverse grid race two, before Britain’s Rob Huff striked last on Saturday night. However, TCR wasn’t the only category to put on a show, with National Trans Am Series headlined by a weekend-long battle between series leader James Moffat and Nash Morris. The duo split the honours with two race wins each to their name, but it was Moffat who ultimately claimed the round, with an additional second-place finish behind Morris the difference in points.

It was a weekend to remember for 16-year-old Alex Gardner in Workhorse Radical Cup Australia after claiming the series title in his rookie year. It may not have been the dominance we are accustomed to seeing in 2023, but was an impressive outing nonetheless to pip Elliott Schutte, while a red-hot Cooper Cutts claimed the round win. Series X3 NSW added some local flavour to the international event, with spectators unable to take their eyes off all five entertaining races that saw side-by-side action from start to finish. However, in the end it was James Lodge who came out on top after entertaining battles with Blake Tracey, Toby Waghorn, Will Longmore and Cooper Barnes.

SUPERCHEAP AUTO TCR AUSTRALIA SERIES Race 1: Will Brown Race 2: Will Brown Race 3: Rob Huff

NATIONAL TRANS AM SERIES 1. 2. 3.

James Moffat Nash Morris Cody Gillis

WORKHORSE RADICAL CUP AUSTRALIA 1. 2. 3.

Cooper Cutts Alex Gardner Chris Perini

SERIES X3 NSW 1. 2. 3.

James Lodge Blake Tracey Toby Waghorn

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 9

PERKINS' GREAT EIGHT CELEBRATED Motorsport Australia volunteer official Nick Perkins has been selected as the Supercheap Auto Official Superstar for November 2023.

The Queenslander recently reached his eighth year of officiating across various levels of motorsport, and his valued contribution at the Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 event earned him the title of Official Superstar this month. Perkins’ experience at events goes deeper than Supercars. He has a long-lasting background in both communications and as a flaggie at national and state events, while also boasting significant timekeeping experience at a national level.

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Not only has Perkins’ enjoyed a variety of roles at the top level, but he has also contributed vastly at grassroots motorsport, having volunteered at a range of hill climbs, supersprints and autocross events.

This is not the first time Perkins has been acknowledged for his efforts. He has also been nominated by two separate Chief Timekeepers for awards, making him a deserving winner of this month’s Supercheap Auto Official Superstar. Perkins will also receive a $100 Supercheap Auto gift card, commemorative pin and certificate to reward him for his outstanding contribution to the sport.

NICK PERKINS Do you know someone like Nick; a Motorsport Australia official who deserves to be recognised for going above and beyond their duty? Nominate now and your friend could win a $100 Supercheap Auto gift card, commemorative pin, and certificate — with their story shared in Speed Read.

Submit your nomination to Speed Read

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Dick Johnson on the Bathurst podium in 1981

AUSSIE OFFICIALS SHINE IN SINGAPORE Motorsport Australia is proud to have supported a delegation of female Australian senior medical officials who were integrated into the medical team for this year’s Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix.

The delegation consisted of five senior medical officials including Dr Jen Coleman and Dr Tamara Johnson, as well as nurses Natalie Borg, Phoebe Garrett and Jessica Gondek.

This initiative is a result of a collaboration between the Singapore GP Organising Committee, Motorsport Australia and the global FIA "Women in Motor Sport" campaign which is aimed at enhancing gender diversity in the sport.

Ahead of the 2023 Singapore Grand Prix, the women had a combined 26 years of Formula 1 medical team experience, with their venture to the popular event giving them the new experience of the Singaporean approach.

“Opportunities like this are so important to foster the relationships between medical teams”

One of the five women to get the unique opportunity of attending the Singapore Grand Prix, Dr Coleman, who is also the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, was highly complimentary of the initiative. “This has been an extraordinary opportunity for our senior medical 12 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

officials to observe the Singapore medical team and be able to develop ideas and programs that we will bring back to Australia,” Dr Coleman said. “Opportunities like this are so important to foster the relationships between medical teams, where we are already seeing a greater percentage of women participating, but also to promote Motorsport medicine in general.

“By increasing our exposure to different race environments, we can target research to make the sport safer, from grassroots to the elite Formula 1 level." Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations Michael Smith was pleased to see the five women excel in the initiative that promotes women in motorsport and identifies

potential future career opportunities for role models and ambassadors. “Motorsport Australia is committed to seeing more people enjoying more motorsport more often – and that includes our dedicated medical crews who are a vital part of delivering our sport,” Smith said. “Through terrific programs like this, we are able to make sure that those involved in all aspects of motorsport have an opportunity to develop their skills, learn world’s best practice and experience world-class events.

motorsport events, right through from the grassroots level to our national and international events.” Having also been in attendance in Singapore, Formula 1 Australian

own systems within the medical team and I am told we will be considering the addition of a karaoke machine to morning briefings. “We appreciate the support of Singapore GP Chief Medical Officer, Dr Lim Kay Kiat, and his whole medical team as well as Janette Tan, Director of Race Operations for the Singapore GP"

“We are able to make sure that those involved in FIA Women in Motor Sport all aspects of motorsport The Commission is committed to promoting the participation have an opportunity of women at all levels within motorsport and aims to alter pre-existing stereotypes and to develop their skills”

“The opportunity to collaborate with the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix and its world-class medical team provides Australian medical crews even more opportunities to grow and bring back their learnings to implement at Australian

Grand Prix Chief Medical Officer Dr Brent May echoed Smith’s comments. "The dedication and enthusiasm of these amazing senior medical officials is so impressive,” Dr May said. “They will no doubt use this experience to further enhance our

encourage more women to consider careers in the industry, both on and off the track.

The medical team has been proudly leading the way in the last few years with women making up 43 per cent of the 2023 Australian F1 medical team, and 53 per cent of the Singaporean medical team. MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 13

Photos: Revved Photography

GRAND PRIX OFFICIALS REGISTRATION NOW OPEN Individuals eager to volunteer at next year’s Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix can now submit their applications. More than 900 Motorsport Australia volunteer officials were part of this year’s record-breaking event - from first-year flag and track marshals to highly experienced sector and fire marshals, there will be plenty of passionate individuals to help the event run smoothly. Interested applicants have until Friday, 8 December to register as an official for the 2024 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix.

Antonino Inferrera, who had been a long-time fan of the sport but didn’t sign up as an official until this year, was excited to have finally done so.

“I am still be in motorsport when There are many perks to I was younger but had being a volunteer official a lot going on and pinching – including having the money was always a best seat in the house to problem even when I watch the racing action myself about was karting,” Inferrera unfold, as well as the said during this year’s camaraderie within the being here” Australian Grand Prix. Motorsport Australia volunteer official team.

“I've always wanted to

“It wasn't until I was older that I found out about being an official and I am kicking myself that I found it later in life. I started a year ago and I have been finding it very good. “Everyone's friendly and it's nice to see people. It's a good life. This will be my 20th Australian Grand Prix, but my first as an official and I am still pinching myself about being here.”

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All applicants must have a current Motorsport Australia Officials Licence at the time of application to be considered. The 2024 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix will take place in Albert Park in Melbourne on 21-24 March.

Become a Motorsport Australia Official via the Motorsport Australia Member Portal.

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Photos: Chantel Collins

SUCCESSFUL WOMEN'S PROGRAM AVAILABLE FOR CLUBS CLUB

A program hoping to break down the perceived barriers for women and increase participation in motorsport has been making strides in 2023.

The Women’s Introduction to Motorsport Program enjoyed an impressive debut with successful pilot events taking place across three states over the past year and resulting in an influx of new Motorsport Australia licence holders. Specifically aimed towards women who have never participated in motorsport, the program educates women on how to break into motorsport at the grassroots level, as well as arming them with basic motorsport skills in their road registered car.

The program’s buddy-style format brings a significant focus on social inclusion which has been a key in encouraging these women to join the sport through entrylevel disciplines and events.

Due to the success of the three pilot events, Motorsport Australia now presents the program for clubs to utilise as a tool to increase female participation and boost membership numbers within their club. Motorsport Australia will provide clubs with a range of resources and assistance to run the event including, program templates, resources and marketing material, a dedicated staff member for support for the duration of the project, as well as discounted permit fees. There is also the opportunity to apply for funding through a dedicated funding in the Supercheap Auto Club

GUIDE

Women’s Introduction to Motorsport program M O T O R S P O R T . O R G

. A U

Development Fund when Round 1 of funding opens in early 2024. Interested clubs can contact development@motorsport.org.au to request a copy of the Women’s Introduction to Motorsport Program Club Guide and for more information. More than one club may come together to collaborate on the program delivery. The Club Resource Centre also has a range of guides and resources to support female participation in grassroots motorsport.

Express your interest in the Introduction to Motorsport Program

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Photos: Bob Taylor

SHANNONS TROPHY SERIES ENDS 2023 ON HIGH IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA The 2023 Shannons Trophy Series held its season finale at Shell-V Motorsport Park last month with seven categories enjoying more than 20 hours of racing across three days. Making up the final round of the 2023 season was the Workhorse Radical Cup Australia Series, Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge Australia, Australian Formula Ford, MARC Cars Australia, Burson Auto Parts Hyundai Excels SA, the Australian Prototype Series, and the combined Mobil 1 Australian Production Cars and Monochrome Australia Production Invited.

The final round of the season did not disappoint either, with each category putting on a show for fans both in attendance and those tuning in via the 7plus broadcast. One of the most inspiring stories of the weekend came in the one-make Porsche series as 17-year-old Oscar Targett picked up his first victory for the season in the category’s opening race before backing it up with a second straight win in race two. Targett couldn’t complete the clean sweep though, as Aron Shields

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won a chaotic final race that had everything. Crossing the finish line in third place, Shields was then elevated to top spot post-race after provisional winner Lachlan Bloxsom and Targett both received penalties, dropping them off the podium. Top honours in the Australian Formula Ford Series was shared around across the weekend, with numerous drivers showing they had what it took to contend, however it was Jake Santalucia who came away with the win.

Photos: Bob Taylor

Santalucia got off to a great start with an opening race victory, beating champion-elect Matt Hillyer and Conor Somers. Hillyer struck back with a victory in the category’s second race before Santalucia ended the weekend with his second win – securing the round.

In the Mobil 1 Australian Production Cars and Monochrome Australia Production Invited category, Shane Smollen and Ricky Capo were dominant across the enduro races, taking three out of four races and only dropping one to Jacob Lawrence and John Bowe.

John Goodacre ran away as the round winner in a hectic weekend for the MARC Cars Australia category, which began with a race win in the opening outing, before a second place in race three sealed the deal.

In Production Cars, it was Coleby Cowham and Lindsay Kerns who took out race one before a gallant comeback from Grant Sherrin saw him take race two - the rivals then split races three and four in the same order once again.

Stepping in for Daniel Stutterd for race two, Max Vidau went on to dominate race two, but a spin for Stutterd early on ruined any chance of a round victory.

There were also several drivers who just could not be stopped across the weekend’s proceedings. In the Workhorse Radical Cup, Alex Gardner continued with his rich run of form in his debut season, converting two pole positions into victories, as well as taking out three wins in the Radical class for the Australian Prototype Series. Gardner wasn’t the only driver to produce a clean sweep within the Australian Prototype Series, with 2017 champion Mark Laucke making it an impressive three outright victories from three.

Conor Nash was another who showed ascendency in Adelaide, competing his perfect weekend in the Burson Auto Parts Hyundai Excels SA category with three convincing victories.

Watch The Shannons Trophy Series’ Sunday action on 7plus

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 19

AMOS CLAIMS AUSTRALIAN TITLE AFTER IMPRESSIVE HILL CLIMB WIN Dean Amos is the new hill climb champion of Australia after winning last month’s Motorsport Australia Hill Climb Championship, courtesy of a record-breaking run. A strong field of more than 100 competitors made their way out to Ringwood Park for the final National Speed and Auto Test event for the year, but it was Amos who took out the MG Car Club of Newcastle-run event with a scintillating time of 32.66 seconds.

With every driver getting seven attempts up the course, Amos went fastest overall on six of the seven runs, with the only exception being his fifth when he received a penalty. Outside of that minor blip, Amos was a standout driver throughout the day – his second and third runs of 33.20 and 33.24 seconds were also good enough to win the event.

Coming on his fourth attempt, the event-winning time also saw him break Malcolm Oastler’s record of 32.86 seconds set in 2014. While there were quite a few individuals capable of claiming this year’s title, Amos’ victory proved dominant as 2022 champion Dean Tighe picked up second place after his best time was eight-tenths slower.

As for Tighe, it was a bit of a struggle for the Queenslander, with only three of his seven runs being under 34 seconds, including his best time of 33.40, which came on his fifth attempt. Frustratingly for the 2023 Motorsport Australia Supersprint Champion, he was unable to improve on that time and was forced to settle for second – beating the third-placed Greg Ackland by more than half a second. Rounding out the podium, Ackland’s best time of 34.03 seconds came on his sixth run as he comfortably sealed third place. Making up the rest of the top 10 was a collection of Formula Libres, with just three-tenths separating

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Photos: Gears and Wheels Photography

Warwick Hutchinson, Brett Bull, Alan Foley in the battle for fourth. South Australian title contender David Mahon finished the event in seventh place, while Neil Lewis, Miles Hoare and Dave Morrow rounded out the top 10. With Formula Libres unsurprisingly dominating the event, Peter Brown was the highest placed driver outside of the class - the Pro Sport Mulsanne Supersports driver going 11th fastest overall with his time of 37.58 seconds just two tenths short of Morrow in 10th. Just three places below Brown was the fastest tin top driver in Matthew Brown, who guided his Audi RS4 to 14th overall with an impressive time of 39.08 seconds. Other notable results included Pauline Graham, whose time of 41.75 seconds saw her as the fastest woman, while Travis McGeorge was the best-placed junior with a time of 45.68 seconds.

View the full results from the 2023 Motorsport Australia Hill Climb Championship on the club's Facebook page

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TIGHE CLAIMS SECOND SUPERSPRINT TITLE IN DOMINANT FASHION Dean Tighe has secured backto-back Motorsport Australia Supersprint Championship titles after dominating last month’s event. Run by the Porsche Car Club of Queensland at Morgan Park Raceway, 34 entries from around the country made their way to Warwick to take part in the event, but none were able to match up with Tighe throughout their 11 allocated sessions. Finishing with a record-breaking time of 1:05.891, the next best competitor to Tighe was Steven Woodbridge, whose best lap was almost six and a half seconds off, while Slade Orsmond rounded out the podium a further three-tenths off. Going into the event as a heavy favourite, it didn’t take long for Tighe to assert his dominance 22 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

over the competition, as he went fastest in all seven of his competitive sessions after practice.

The Queenslander essentially won the event on his first attempt with a time of 1:07.160 before switching his target to the lap record, previously set by 2022 Porsche Paynter Dixon Carerra Cup Champion Harri Jones in a Formula 3 car. Woodbridge also set his fastest time of the weekend on his first attempt but was unable to able to improve, while Tighe improved his time on all seven of his flying laps before eventually breaking the record on his penultimate run. Despite the sweltering conditions, Tighe opted to have one last session in order to break the one-minute and six-second mark, which he

was able to do on his last attempt around the three-kilometre circuit. In what was a highly successful day for Tighe, the now two-time champion was pleased with his victory and to break the record. “Firstly, I must give a special congratulations to the Porsche Car Club of Queensland. They did

Photos: MTR Images/David Gallagher

a superb job all weekend and ran a really good event,” Tighe said. “It was a good feeling to win and go back-to-back in this championship. The car was perfect and even though I made no changes to it, we got quicker and quicker as the weekend went on. “I went into the event knowing that I would be in a good position to win, but to break the record was the sweetener. I felt like we kind of earned the title with the record because if any of the major players had shown up, they would have had to be on their A-game to beat me.

“The event was also actually really enjoyable and invigorating because it felt like we were doing a Supercars Shootout or in F1 Qualifying lap when we were going out and doing the flying lap.” With Tighe in a league of his own for the outright win, the battle for the minor podium positions was far more competitive with the event’s next fastest four drivers all within half a second of each other. Woodbridge ended up winning that battle with a comfortable threetenth buffer, while Orsmond’s fastest time was just four hundredths quicker than the fourth-placed Brad Gall and just over two-tenths quicker than Phil Sutcliffe. Not only did Orsmond enjoy a podium finish, but he also had a successful weekend in the racing side of the event, which started off with pole position. Slade then managed to win all three of the event’s races in comfortable

fashion, while Wayne Hennig finished second in two of the three races, including the final 33-lap enduro. In the other supersprint groups, Brad Rankin was fastest in Group 4 with a time of 1:21.789 which saw him finish 10th outright, and Group 4 winner John Adams was fastest with a best lap time of 1:27.390.

View the full results of the Motorsport Australia SuperSprint Championship at speedhive.com

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 23

WE WANT YOU ESPORTS CHAMPIONSHIPS AND CUPS LOOKING FOR NEW PROMOTER After a successful debut year of National Esports Championships and Cups, Motorsport Australia is now calling for expressions of interest (EOI) for next year’s set of competitions.

In 2023, there were five Motorsport Australia Esports National Championships and Cups, with Touring Cars, S5000, Formula 4, Formula Vee and GT3 all producing entertaining seasons.

With 2024 fast approaching, candidates interested in acting as an official and exclusive agent of Motorsport Australia in the organisation and promotion of a national Esports competition are encouraged to submit an EOI.

Get more information on the five national Motorsport Australia Esports National Championships and Cups.

Interested organisers have until 5pm on Friday 1 December 2023 to register a formal expression of interest.

24 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Should you have any questions regarding the Esports initiatives or need assistance with the above EOI application, please contact esports@motorsport.org.au.

More info on the five national Motorsport Australia Esports National Championships and Cups at esports.motorsport.org.au

DID YO OU KNO OW, YO OU CAN BYO O? Your car – your choice. If your mechanic doesn’t use Mobil™ oil, buy it at Supercheap Auto and bring your own. Just like taking your beer-of-choice to a mate’s BBQ, or favourite wine to a restaurant – you can also take your preferred Mobil™ oil to your mechanic or service centre. Get the absolute performance and outstanding protection of Mobil™ – even if you’re not doing your own oil change.

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SUPERCARS ENJOYS BUMPER OCTOBER

Photos: Edge Photographics

October proved a busy period for the Repco Supercars Championship, with two of the biggest events of the 2023 calendar taking place within the month. Starting off with the grand Repco Bathurst 1000 and finishing off with the ever-popular Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500, Supercars enjoyed two highly successful events. It all began at the famous Mount Panorama as the category celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Bathurst 1000, and it was Shane van Gisbergen and Kiwi co-driver Richie Stanaway who claimed the thrilling victory.

In what was a strong performance from both drivers, the Red Bull Ampol Racing duo started the great race from sixth, showing a solid race pace throughout the 161 laps to cross the line more than 20 seconds ahead of their nearest rivals. “What a feeling and Richie did just a stellar job all day,” van Gisbergen said post-race.

“It’s been incredible to be part of this team. Teaming up with Shane, I knew we had a good shot, but you never know at this place. The last 60 laps were the longest two hours of my life. I can’t describe the feeling right now, couldn’t be happier.”

“This is a perfect way to say goodbye for now”

“Thanks to Red Bull Ampol Racing and thanks to all these fans. I’m really going to miss it and I love this place – I’ll be back. “This is a perfect way to say goodbye for now.”

As van Gisbergen leaves the championship a Bathurst winner, Stanaway was equally as pleased to win the biggest event of the year ahead of his full-time return in 2024.

26 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

“It’s definitely at the top (of my list of achievements) for me. It’s an unbelievable feeling and a childhood dream of mine to win this race so I can’t believe it,” Stanaway said.

Crossing the line in second place was van Gisbergen’s main title rival in Brodie Kostecki and codriver David Russell, with the pair experiencing a mixed weekend. Blowing the field away in qualifying and the Top Ten Shootout, Kostecki started the race strong – but the Coca Cola Racing by Erebus Camaro also

Photos: Edge Photographics

had its steering dramas at the tail end of the race, leaving him unable to challenge van Gisbergen for the win.

"Unbelievable, it's been such a shocking year, to be honest," Waters said post-race.

Rounding out the podium was the fastest of the Ford Mustangs in third - Anton De Pasquale and co-driver Tony D’Alberto, who finished only 13 seconds behind Kostecki and Russell.

“The emotion on my team’s face says it all. So happy. Shane was coming for me, but there was no way I was gonna let a bloody GM beat me again.

Later on in the month, there was a Ford Mustang on the top step of a Supercars podium for the first time since the opening race of the season, as Cameron Waters managed to double his win tally.

"I had a bit of fuel-saving to do, and a bit of tyre-saving. I had a few kerb hops up my sleeve, so I made sure I was set for the last five laps. I gave it everything, he got to my rear bar, but he was never getting past me."

In a highly entertaining conclusion to the first outing on the Gold Coast, Waters was able to hold off a fast-charging van Gisbergen in the dying stages having led for a large portion of the race.

After grabbing his first podium since April’s Perth SuperSprint, Reynolds finally got to enjoy his first win of the year, beating championship leader Brodie Kostecki to the line, while Waters took out the final step of the podium.

Despite van Gisbergen throwing everything at the Tickford Racing star, Waters managed to hold on for the win. Crossing the line behind van Gisbergen was another Mustang, with David Reynolds taking out third place.

Just one event remains in the 2023 season with the highly anticipated VAILO Adelaide 500 on 23-26 November.

REPCO SUPERCARS CHAMPIONSHIP TOP 10 1. Brodie Kostecki - 2696 points 2. Shane van Gisbergen - 2565 3. Will Brown - 2201 4. Broc Feeney - 2192 5. Chaz Mostert - 2056 6. Andre Heimgartner - 1830 7. Cam Waters - 1829 8. Anton De Pasquale - 1680 9. Bryce Fullwood - 1623 10. Jack Le Brocq - 1616

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 27

FIA RELEASE REFRESHER ON OVERALLS SAFETY The FIA has released the following notice regarding overalls and how customisation of overalls should be approached within FIA regulations. The use and development of clothing materials in motorsport has evolved over time and continues to do so. The FIA aims to deliver standards that set design and safety performance requirements, with the goal of covering every category of the sport and protecting everyone, regardless of budget. As part of that mission, overalls approved according to FIA Standards 88562000 and 8856-2018 play a crucial role in protecting competitors.

(overlap at the neck), undergarments, gloves and socks, guarantee at least two layers of protective clothing.

Article 2 “Flame-resistant clothing” of Chapter III “Drivers’ Equipment” of Appendix L to the ISC, regulates the customization of clothing. The regulation has been written to ensure that customization does not reduce the safety performance of the clothing, and therefore it is important that competitors follow the customization regulation.

3. Addition of badges The backing material of badges and the thread used for affixing them to the garment must be flameproof. The stitching of badges can go through all layers, provided that the thread is flameproof and compliant with ISO 15025 (same regulation for 8856-2000 and 8856-2018 approved clothing).

Competitors have at their disposal three different ways to customise their clothing:

TECHNICAL LISTS FIA Standards 8856-2000 and 88562018 set out the specifications for protective clothing (overalls, balaclava, undergarments, socks, shoes and gloves) used in motorsport events, with the aim of enhancing safety and minimising the risk of seconddegree burns to competitors.

1. Printing and Transfer This process may only be undertaken by the clothing manufacturer. For FIAapproved 8856-2018 garments, any customization via printing or transfer must be supported by a certificate from the manufacturer. This certificate may be supplied in paper format, via email, or directly accessed via QR code or NFC on the equipment. Although there are no customization certificates for clothing approved in accordance with 8856-2000 standard, printing and/or transfer can only be done by the clothing manufacturer.

Protective clothing may be customised to suit the needs of a competitor with disabilities. However, these modifications must be carried out solely by the manufacturer. Once again, customised clothing approved in accordance with 88562018 standard must be accompanied with a customisation certificate showing these modifications.

These FIA Standards specify that all protective clothing must pass several tests in order to be approved by the FIA, including those for flame, heat transmission, and tensile strength. A full list of FIA approved clothing meeting FIA Standards 8856-2000 and 8856-2018 can be found in Technical Lists no. 27 and 74. The lists can be downloaded below. To assist with scrutineering activities, each product approved according to FIA Standard 8856-2018 has its own presentation form that can be downloaded via the technical list.

CORRECT USE AND CUSTOMISATION Competitors should always wear overalls that completely cover the body from the neck to the wrists and ankles and ensure that the overalls, when combined with the balaclava 28 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Finally, it is important to note that coloured dye is prohibited as it can change the properties of the materials and reduce the safety performance of the overalls.

Read Technical list #27 2. Embroidery Any embroidery sewn directly onto the garment must be stitched onto the outermost layer only to ensure better heat insulation (same regulation for 8856-2000 and 8856-2018 approved clothing).

Read Technical list #74

Read Appendix L to the ISC

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Photos: Oz Sport Photos

LEWIS BATES AND ANTHONY MCLOUGHLIN SEAL TOYOTA TITLE IN ADELAIDE The penultimate round of the 2023 Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (ARC) was run and won last month with a thrilling 25 stages making up the event. Set across the picturesque Adelaide Hills and Shell-V Power Motorsport Park, the PowerPlay Adelaide Hills Rally did not disappoint as 40 crews battled over three days, in what was the final Sprint event of the year.

impressive ARC season behind the wheel of their new Skoda Fabia R5.

Not only did the Bates brothers secure a one-two finish for Toyota, ultimately setting up a mouth-watering season finale in Canberra, but they also helped the manufacturer clinch the ARC Manufacturers Championship, going out to a 55-point unassailable lead in front of the trailing Skoda in second.

“We were always confident that the GR Yaris AP4 was a championshipwinning car”

In the end though, it was a weekend dominated by Toyota as reigning ARC Champions Lewis Bates and Anthony McLoughlin took out the event over their Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia teammates Harry Bates and Coral Taylor.

Taking out third place for the event were Tasmanians Eddie Maguire and Zak Brakey, who continue to enjoy an 30 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

“I’d like to thank and congratulate the whole team – and especially Lewis, Harry, Anthony and Coral – on delivering results, round after round.

Toyota Australia Chief Marketing Officer Vin Naidoo praised the whole Neal Bates Motorsport team and proudly sung the praises of his two drivers and codrivers, who were again dominant.

“Just like last year, I’m looking forward to a thrilling battle between the two drivers and co-drivers in Canberra to see who takes out the championship.”

“We were always confident that the GR Yaris AP4 was a championship-winning car and much of that credit goes to Neal Bates and his team,” Naidoo said.

Although the duo did experience a minor setback on the fourth stage, hitting a corner too hard and falling to third outright, they bounced back beautifully to win

With the event split into two Heats, it was Harry and Taylor who were dominant in the first, as they put together a collection of stage wins during the opening two days.

the Heat by 16 seconds over Lewis and McLoughlin after taking out eight of the final day's 10 stages. “I think our little moment on stage four where we had a little overshoot probably helped us,” Harry said. “We were struggling to get a feeling for the brakes and there’s so many high-speed sections where you have to brake really heavily into a tight corner, so to go over the limit actually helped us find the limit and then settle into a rhythm from there. “I enjoyed it. I enjoyed the changes in rhythm as it created an extra challenge. I think it’s difficult for a driver and co-driver to deal with, but it’s a nice challenge and it’s something different.” Harry and Taylor then picked up where they left off on Sunday, taking out the morning’s stages before a penalty and a spin over two stages undid their good work – preventing them from back-to-back Heats after they fell to fifth for the day.

As a result, Lewis and McLoughlin ended up with the Heat win, and ultimately the round win, while Maguire and Brakey outlasted a brave challenge from IntelliSpatial Fleetcare Racing pair Alex Rullo and Steve Glenney, who rounded out the Heat’s top three.

In the ARC Cups, Molly Taylor enjoyed a memorable return to the ARC after taking out the White Wolf Constructions ARC Production Cup alongside Andy Sarandis over Steve Maguire and Ben Searcy, while Cup leader Bodie Reading crashed out midway through Sunday.

Following the EROAD Power Stage, Lewis showed gratitude towards his team and his competitors.

Tom Clarke and Ryan Preston won the ARC Classic Cup after dominating the round, as did Ben and Cathy Hayes in the ARC 2WD Cup, while Mitch Garrad and Lucas Zinsstag took out the Shamrock Haulage ARC Junior Cup.

“Thank you to the whole team – they have worked so hard all weekend, and I’m glad we bought home the results for them,” Lewis said. “We probably didn’t have the tidiest run in the EROAD Power Stage, so I’m not surprised that Harry got us back – we had a fair crack so hats off to him. “It hasn’t been the easiest weekend, but we never gave up. We kept fighting the whole way and put ourselves in a good position at the end, so we’re absolutely over the moon.”

The final round of the 2023 Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship will be the Subaru Canberra Rally of Canberra, in and around the forests of the nation’s capital on 18-19 November.

View the full results from the PowerPlay Adelaide Hills Rally via the Subaru Results Hub

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 31

WELCOME BACK, CALDER PARK

It had been many years since a Motorsport Australia event was last held there, but circuit racing finally returned to Victoria’s Calder Park Raceway last month.

Hosting a special round of the Motorsport Australia Victorian State Circuit Racing Championships, almost 100 competitors made their way to the special ‘Thunderdome’ to take part in a memorable weekend. Formula Vee was just four points as Reef McCartney’s victory in the final race ended eventual round winner Lee Partridge’s perfect weekend. Jesse Bryan suffered a similar fate to Partridge in the combined E30 Racing and Hyundai Excel category, with a P2 in the second race ruining any hope he had of getting a clean sweep – although he still enjoyed taking out top honours in convincing fashion. Photos: Revved Photography

Many of the Victorian State Circuit Racing Championships' regular categories featured in the historic weekend, including Porsche 944, Formula Vee, Improved Production and Saloon cars. The race meeting ran in the same traditional format of state racing, with each category starting with qualifying before enjoying three races. In keeping with the special occasion, many of the categories put on an entertaining display of racing, with not one driver enjoying a clean sweep of victories. The closest competition came in the Porsche 944s as Mark Verdino just edged out Chris LewisWilliams by two points, while the difference in

32 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Two wins for one of the only nonVictorians at the event in Jesse Bryan was enough for the Queenslander to win the combined E30 Racing and Hyundai Excel category. Although Bryan didn’t win the weekend’s middle race, a second place behind race two winner Royce Lyne was enough to comfortably secure top honours over Brian Bourke.

Ian McLennan also enjoyed a comfortable weekend in the Improved Production cars, as one win and two-second places proved too good for the rest of the 23-car field. Another interstater enjoyed the round win in the MG and Invited British category, with Trevor Lindsay taking out top spot, despite not winning a race. The South Australian ended the weekend with three podiums as a DNF to race two and three winner Philip Chester in the opening outing ruined any hope of a victory at the famous circuit.

While the racing was the main part of Calder Park’s grand return to Motorsport Australia, there was also a special celebration of the circuit’s longstanding Chapel. With the chapel hosting Official’s briefing on the Sunday morning, Arther Bartlett attended the event as a special guest, giving volunteer officials a detailed history of the Chapel at Calder Park.

Unless you have four feet...

DIAL IN YOUR BRAKING. Learn more at bosch-motorsport-shop.com.au/ABS

Photos: Epic Sport Photography

THRILLING ARC SEASON FINALE AWAITS NATION’S CAPITAL The highly anticipated season finale for the Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (ARC) gets underway this month, with the ever-challenging Subaru Canberra Rally of Canberra having the honour of wrapping up the 2023 season. Taking place in and around the forests of Canberra, the final endurance event of the season will see crews tackle 181 competitive kilometres over 12 special stages. Six stages will take place on Saturday before the remaining six run on Sunday, including the final EROAD Power stage. A field of 34 ARC crews will contest the season finale in the nation’s capital, with all eyes on the mouthwatering title fight between reigning champions Lewis Bates and Anthony McLoughlin and their teammates 34 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Harry Bates and Coral Taylor in a battle which could come down to the EROAD Power Stage result. While the two Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia crews enter the event as the only outright contenders for the 2023 Championship win, there are plenty of names on the entry list for fans to get excited about, with many high-profile crews making their return to the ARC. Shamrock Haulage’s Richie Dalton is one of few returnees who will make his first appearance for the year, as he reunites with Dale Moscatt. The duo will be behind the wheel of a Toyota GR Yaris AP4 – the same one they steered to four outright podiums last year. There are also quite a few names of note in the 15-car White Wolf Constructions Production Cup field, with Taylor Gill and Daniel

Brkic’s return of their overseas venture the highlight. Gill took out the title in 2022 after a breakout season, but the 20-year-old is likely to have an impact in this year’s title fight between Tasmanian stars Steve Maguire and Bodie Reading. “Doing Canberra was hard to turn down because it’s going to be cool to come back home and get behind the

Photo: Epic Sport Photography

wheel of the Subaru at an event we did quite well at last year," Gill said. “I also truly believe that I am 100 per cent a better driver this time around. Watching Canberra in-car from last year, I honestly cringe when I watch - mainly because of how painfully slow and under-committed I was. “Now with this extra experience, every aspect of myself as a rally driver is better than it was 18 months ago."

“The committee was pleased with both the quantity and quality of entries – to have just 50 crews may not have been our original goal, but we are stoked with the turnout," Dudok said. “The ARC especially is impressive – from interstaters to the locals, it’s a particularly strong field across the whole entry list and I am sure the title fight will add to the drama.

“Every aspect of myself as a rally “I am also pleased driver is better with the NSW and ACT component, it’s than it was 18 considering the final round the season, we months ago” ofweren’t expecting

With the event also hosting round of the Motorsport Australia NSW Rally Championship and Chris Higgs and Steve Fisher lead a strong local contingent cross-entered in both, which includes the likes of Riley Walters Andrew Crowley and Tim Wilkins and Jim Gleeson, while Tony Sullens and Kaylie Newell lead the way for the crews entered solely in the NSWRC.

Subaru Canberra Rally of Canberra Clerk of Course Adrian Dudok was thrilled with the entry list.

such a strong turnout, so that’s a bonus.

As for the title fight, Lewis and McLoughlin sit just 23 points ahead of Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia teammates Harry and Taylor, and with the Subaru Canberra Rally of Canberra being an endurance event, which sees the result based on an accumulation of all 12 stages, the title fight between the two could well and truly go down to the final stage.

Fans will get multiple opportunities to see the action unfold over the weekend, with four spectator points on eight stages available - two on Saturday and another two of Sunday. The EROAD Power Stage will also be once again broadcast live and free via 7plus, with the stage to run at 2:30pm AEDT. The Subaru Canberra Rally of Canberra takes place in the nation’s capital on 18-19 November.

Get all the information on the Subaru Canberra Rally of Canberra via rally.com.au

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 35

WHITSUNDAY SPORTING CAR CLUB PUT ON A SHOW

The Whitsunday Sporting Car Club enjoyed a very successful event for its Khanacross Race Weekend in Queensland.

“A massive congratulations to everyone at the Whitsunday Sporting Car Club for putting on an impressive event across the weekend,” Vohra said.

Across Saturday and Sunday, club members enjoyed a big weekend of motorsport, along with some special visitors joining the club to enjoy some epic racing at the Queensland event.

“I was very pleased to attend the event and meet some of our passionate members who love what they do. With new participants taking the chance to run their cars in this exciting format, it was great to see the club sign up several new members on the day.

Newly appointed Motorsport Australia CEO Sunil Vohra and Motorsport Australia President Andrew Fraser attended the club on the Sunday, getting a chance to meet the members and lend their support to those taking part.

“Once again we saw the passion and commitment on display from our loyal officials at what was a massive weekend of racing”

Both Vohra and Fraser joined in the action, both sitting in as passengers in several runs of the khanacross course. Vohra himself also took to the course as a driver, sampling the club level event for himself ahead of officially starting as CEO in November.

36 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

the Motorsport Australia officials who made the event possible. “Once again we saw the passion and commitment on display from our loyal officials at what was a massive weekend of racing across the Gold Coast street circuit,” Fraser said. “Queenslanders certainly know how to put on a show and it was terrific to see such large numbers of motorsport fans enjoying a brilliant weekend of racing in both the Supercars, as well as the support categories who were on track.”

“These sorts of events are what keeps our sport growing across the country. Our clubs are the lifeblood of the sport and I am looking forward to attending more events in the future as I take on this new role as CEO in the coming weeks.”

Vohra will join Motorsport Australia for his first official day at the organisation’s Melbourne headquarters on 6 November, working closely with current CEO Eugene Arocca during a short transition period.

Earlier in the weekend, Fraser and Vohra joined more than 200,000 Supercars fans at the Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 – enjoying an opportunity to meet with many of

Motorsport Australia will recognise Arocca’s significant contribution to the sport throughout the coming weeks.

Arocca resigned from his role earlier this year after 11 years in the top job and a large number of achievements throughout his time as CEO.

SUNIL VOHRA NAMED NEXT MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA CEO Motorsport Australia announced Sunil Vohra as its new Chief Executive Officer last month.

of the CGU business at Insurance Australia Group and spent over a decade working in the UK.

Vohra, who has extensive executive experience across a range of industries around the world, began his new role at Motorsport Australia in November.

Most recently, Vohra was the founder and Managing Partner of The Workability Index & TWI Advisory, where he worked with a number of highprofile commercial and NFP clients, including the Australian Medical Association.

With 15 years of expertise in leadership roles in ASX and NFP organisations, Vohra combines an extensive international business background with motorsport experience as a competitor. Vohra’s career spans ASX200 C-Suite appointments alongside Managing Partner consulting experience, as well as co-founding a digital indexing platform supporting environment, social and governance standards. His ASX200 expertise includes six years as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Executive of Risk Services within the $2 billion insurance services business, AUB Group Ltd. Prior to that he led transformation

38 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

“Sunil has an extensive history in commercial and risk management settings, with his expertise developed across both complex ASX enterprises as well as not-for-profit organisations,” Fraser said.

“His knowledge and networks within motorsport, insurance and risk will also be key to his, and our, success”

Melbourne born, he is also a long-time motorsport competitor and enthusiast, describing the sport as his “lifelong passion”. He is a Motorsport Australia licence holder and current racer – most recently competing at state level in his Porsche 997.2 Cup car. Motorsport Australia President Andrew Fraser congratulated Vohra on his appointment to the CEO role.

“We were looking for someone with strong leadership credentials, a proven record of achievement and execution and Sunil brings that alongside a passion for our sport.

“His experience in leading digital transformation, and in insurance, risk and governance will also greatly benefit Motorsport Australia as an organisation, as well as the sport more broadly. His knowledge and networks within motorsport, insurance and risk will also be key to his, and our, success.

“Throughout the recruitment process, Sunil stood out. Both the selection committee and the Board are confident that he will bring energy, fresh ideas and his significant industry networks to the table, benefitting all our stakeholders, and most certainly our competitors, clubs and officials.” Vohra said he was thrilled to take on his new role, highlighting his passion for the sport as well as the opportunity to use his industry experience to take the sport to the next level.

team, to lead an exciting new era in the organisation’s history. “Motorsport is a lifelong passion of mine. I fondly remember my early motorsport experiences like watching the TWR Jaguar win Bathurst in 1985, through to more recently standing on the grid at 5am at the iconic Mount Panorama for the start of the Bathurst 12 Hour earlier this year.

“This opportunity to be part of an organisation that plays such a vital role in the Australian sporting landscape is one that I am excited and honoured to take on”

“I am very proud to be joining Motorsport Australia and look forward to working closely with the Board, the wonderful staff and our many stakeholders to build on those relationships and meet the many people that help make this sport so great,” Vohra said. “This opportunity to be part of an organisation that plays such a vital role in the Australian sporting landscape is one that I am excited and honoured to take on. “I am eager to utilise my experience, insights and strategic ideas as part of the Motorsport Australia

“The sport is full of passionate people. I’ve been fortunate to enjoy the camaraderie of the grassroots motorsport community as a competitor in state level racing and I look forward to meeting more of the vast network of motorsport stakeholders in the months ahead. We all share a love of the sport and a commitment to see it grow. It’s a treat to be part of it.” Fraser also thanked those who had been part of the application process, noting the exceptional list of candidates that had applied for the position.

“We were very pleased with the strength and the quality of the applicants, all showcasing their own unique and impressive qualities,” Fraser added. “We’d like to thank all those who took the time to apply and for the effort they put in throughout the selection process.” Vohra’s appointment comes off the back of Eugene Arocca’s retirement announcement after an impressive 11 years in the CEO chair. Arocca will remain in the role until later this year, assisting in the formal handover with Vohra, along with the Board and Motorsport Australia staff. “It’s fair to say Motorsport Australia has come a long way in that time and Eugene has been the driving force in the organisation’s positive transformation over many years,” Fraser added. “Together with the Board and administration, we look forward to showing our gratitude for Eugene’s efforts as we celebrate his legacy in the weeks ahead and then look forward to the next chapter in Motorsport Australia’s mission to serve our sport and the members who rely on us to deliver motorsport across Australia.”

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 39

Photos: Gears and Wheels Photography

HUXLEY WINS NSW OFF ROAD SEASON FINALE Matt Huxley has won the seventh and final round of the 2023 Motorsport Australia NSW Off Road Championship season in comfortable fashion, beating Benjamin Scott by almost six minutes. With 31 crews entered in October’s Nabiac Off Road Challenge, Huxley and navigator Tobi Turnbull proved too strong across the two days, enjoying victories in all three of the event’s sections. Right from the get go, the pro buggy pilots were out in front, as they enjoyed a 40-second win over Benjamin and Jamie Scott in the short opening section, before extending their lead out to almost one minute at the end of the second section. With the two 16km sections out of the way, the event’s third and

final section was made up of 163 competitive kilometres, as Huxley and Turnbull continued to dominate – guiding their Rivmasta RPS to a win of four minutes and 46 seconds. Their performance was so dominant that the Scotts had no answers in the event’s final day – the runner-up crew still producing a stellar run behind the wheel as they finished almost five minutes ahead of the next best crew in David Chandler and Jonathon Ryan. As a result of the final section, the Scotts ended up with a sevenminute buffer over Chandler and Ryan by the end of the event, with Chandler making it a pro buggy podium lockout. In fourth place was the first non-pro buggy car, with rising star Lachlan Campbell grabbing the SXS Pro win alongside navigator Luke Stanley.

40 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

While there may have been a big margin separating Huxley and Scott from Chandler, there was very little difference between Chandler and the Can Am of Campbell and Stanley – with just over a minute between the two. Even less time separated Campbell from the Can Am of Joshua Ward and Thomas Annett, as the latter crew’s faster section three wasn’t enough to bridge the gap and they ended up settling for fifth place by eight seconds. Other notable class results included Ian and Kelvin Hill, were finished seventh overall and was the fastest Sportslite winner, and the ninthplaced Todd Wilson, who alongside Ashley Wilson, beat Warren and Bradley Barron by one position on the outright standings and in the Super 1650 class.

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Travis Robinson and Andrew Pinto capped off their Polaris Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC) titlewinning year with victory in last month’s Black Diamond Drilling Kalgoorlie Desert Race. With the event shortened to just two sections following the cancellation of Saturday’s racing, Robinson and Pinto ended up taking out their home round by one minute over Outer Bounds Racing teammates Beau Robinson and Shane Hutt. Rounding out the podium in his AORC return was Shane Elphinstone and navigator Mariah Baxter after the duo pipped fellow West Australians Troy Higgins and John Simmons on the final section.

Fortunately, the pole sitters were able to finish the section, and just two minutes off the 2023 AORC Champions.

“It was a good way to cap off the year and one-two with my brother”

Starting the race from the front of the field after winning Friday’s prologue, Beau and Hutt had a solid start to the day’s first of two 121km laps, but their Trophy Truck suffered gearbox issues midway through the section, causing them to fall behind Travis and Pinto at the halfway point of the section.

42 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

The section made winning the event a difficult task for Beau and Hutt, and although they bounced back nicely to win the second section, it wasn’t enough Travis and Pinto cruised to the victory after posting the third fastest time.

The victory was the perfect way to wrap up the season for Travis, who ended the year with one win, three podiums and a fourth place.

“It’s been a good year. We were just looking to get back into the sport and I had a bit of a crack today – it was good – looks like we’ve still got it,” Travis said. “It was a good way to cap off the year and one-two with my brother, I just wish my old man was here to see it. So, it’s good. “We just ran our own race. Beau was definitely the man to beat because he was amazing. We were pretty amazed at how quick he was going around that track because it is quite tight.” Finishing second on the outright AORC Driver Championship standings for 2023 was South

Photos: Dakar Press Team Australia

ROBINSON AND PINTO END TITLEWINNING YEAR WITH HOME VICTORY

Photos: Dakar Press Team Australia

While Cook missed out on a top-three outright finish, he and navigator Mitch Aucote did what they had to do to win the highly competitive SXS Motorsport Australia Championship title fight, courtesy of a perfect day with two SXS section wins. Having posted the fastest SXS time on Friday, Cook and Aucote picked up where they left off in the section and dominated both laps – with a threeminute section one victory setting up their round win and second SXS title.

Australian Mel Brandle, who ended the weekend in 10th place alongside navigator Emily Brandle.

“This season has been up and down for us. It’s been a rollercoaster. Obviously, winning the first event outright, then running out of fuel at Pooncarie, then winning Finke, then having mechanical issues in Loveday – then to come here and just get it done is sweet. “Honestly, we just wanted to look after the car this weekend and not have any issues. We wanted to come out with that number one plate and we did, so we are stoked.” Other notable results for the event included Stephen Ketteridge-Hall and Haylee Cowling winning the Prolite class over the Brandles, as well as finishing in seventh place, while the ninth-placed Nicholas Commins and Ryan Galvin grabbed second in the Extreme 2WD Class, which was enough to secure them the outright national class title.

The duo’s third top 10 finish for the year was enough for them to solidify the Australian number two plate, as well as claim the national Prolite class title, while Beau’s victory saw him leapfrog a collection of drivers to end the year in third place. Although Kalgoorlie was just Beau’s second event for the year, a podium at the Tatts Finke Desert Race, in addition to his home podium, saw him leapfrog Pooncarie Desert Dash winner Raana Horan, who finished Kalgoorlie fifth, and Gold City 450 winner James Cook.

all the mechanics, everyone – it’s a team effort and a great feeling.

“We couldn’t be happier. It’s just an amazing feeling coming here and getting it done. It’s a long way to come for the team,” Cook said. “I can’t take all the credit. My navigator Mitch (Aucote) makes my job so easy,

View full results from the Black Diamond Drilling Kalgoorlie Desert Race at My Race Result

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 43

NEW AND IMPROVED ONE RACEWAY TO RE-OPEN IN 2024 The owners of the newly rebranded One Raceway have confirmed the popular New South Wales-based circuit will re-open for business in 2024.

Since being forced to suspend operations, One Raceway, previously known as Wakefield Park, was purchased by Steve Shelley earlier this year and is undergoing an impressive transformation.

with motorsport thrills, including a comprehensive calendar of operations that ensures abundant opportunities for racing, practice, and training.

“Steve and the team have put in a tremendous amount of work to date and deserve congratulations for their efforts to date.”

“Our plan has been reviewed and officially approved by Goulburn Mulwaree Council, underscoring the collective commitment to the project.”

Some of the more notable upgrades to the circuit include the 10-metrehigh noise walls being constructed at both the northern and southern ends of the circuit, with the walls to also double as viewing platforms for fans. Other upgrades include, but are not limited to, the resurfacing of the paddock area.

“This roadmap Motorsport Australia harmonises has also been working closely with Shelley community and his team. sensibilities with “Motorsport Australia pleased to be motorsport thrills” isworking with Steve

That includes significant track maintenance and renovations and a rebranding that will see the circuit operate under its new name – One Raceway.

Shelley has been working closely with Motorsport Australia, Motorcycling Australia, local government and the community itself to bring the circuit back to life. “Every step of our endeavour is informed by our interactions with our neighbours, insights from the Goulburn Mulwaree community, and invaluable feedback from the motorsport fraternity,” Shelley said. “With the ongoing and open dialogue with the Goulburn Mulwaree Council, we've charted a roadmap to rejuvenate and upgrade the raceway. This roadmap harmonises community sensibilities 44 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Shelley and the One Raceway team as the Goulburn venue gets ready to return to action,” CEO Eugene Arocca added.

“The news is exciting for all motorsport fans, particularly those in New South Wales and the Goulburn region who are crying out for more motorsport facilities. These extensive works will give the venue the best opportunity to showcase and grow our sport in New South Wales. “As the works progress, our team will continue working closely with One Raceway’s management to facilitate the process of obtaining a Motorsport Australia track licence for the circuit and to allow the venue to host many more motorsport events for years to come.

Currently undergoing extensive repair works, One Raceway is expected to open to the public in mid-2024.

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WHAT'S ON IN

NOVEMBER NEW SOUTH WALES AND ACT 8-12 November: 2023 Supercheap Auto Bathurst International, Mount Panorama [Australian Racing Group]

11 November: CACA Dirt Motorkhana, Sydney Motorsport Park [Christian Autosports Club Of Australia] 11 November: First Gear, Mount Panorama [Motorsport Australia] 11 November: Mazda MX-5 Club Motorkhana - Round 3, Sydney Motorsport Park [Mazda MX-5 Club Of NSW] 11 November: Round 6 NSW Supersprint Championship 2023, Sydney Motorsport Park [NSW Road Racing Club] 11 November: The Movember Motorkhana, Nabiac Motorsport Complex [Central North Coast Sporting Car Club] 11-12 November: 2023 Motorsport Australia Rallycross Championship, Raleigh Raceway [Raleigh Motorsports Association] 11-12 November: Rides n Coffee, Mount Panorama [Australian Muscle Car Owners Association] 12 November: Bitumen Khanacross Series - Round 6, Springmount Raceway [FNQ Motorsports Club] 12 November: First Gear Challenge, Mount Panorama [Motorsport Australia]

19 November: DSCC 2023 Autocross Round 8, Deniliquin Autocross Track [Deniliquin Sporting Car Club] 19 November: November Khanacross, Yvonne Martin Memorial Motorsport Park [Lithgow District Car Club] 19 November: November State Khanacross, Awaba [Westlakes Automobile Club] 19 November: Rd 4 (final) Visual Navigation Trials Series, Bathurst [Bathurst Light Car Club] 23-26 November: 2023 Challenge Bathurst, Mount Panorama [Accelerate Events] 25 November: (ACT) LCCC 60th Birthday Social Drive and Lunch, Canberra [Light Car Club Of Canberra] 25 November: Cudal Twilight Markets, Orange [Gnoo Blas Classic Car Club] 25 November: Goulburn Car show, Orange [Gnoo Blas Classic Car Club] 25-26 November: HERTZ Mt Gladstone Hillclimb, Mt Gladstone Cooma [Cooma Monaro Historical Automobile Club ] 25-26 November: HSRCA 2023 Summer `Festival, Sydney Motorsport Park [Historic Sports And Racing Car Association NSW] 26 November: Concours/Car Appreciation Day, Birmingham Gardens [MG Car Club (Newcastle)] 26 November: Flooded Gums Shootout Sprint, Bucca [Coffs Harbour And District Sporting Car Club]

27-28 November: Bathurst Fastrack Experience, Mount Panorama [Experience Central] 29-30 November: Driving Solutions Track Days, Mount Panorama [Driving Solutions International]

QUEENSLAND

10-12 November: 2023 Queensland Super Sprint State Championships, Morgan Park Raceway [Warwick District Sporting Car Club] 11-12 November: Round 6 HBMSA Khanacross 2023, Tinana [Hervey Bay Motor Sports Association] 12 November: 2023 Lockyer Off Road Enduro, Thornton [Cord Owners and Gatherers Society] 12 November: GCTMC Khanacross, Tamborine [Gold Coast Tweed Motorsporting Club] 17-19 November: Qld State Circuit Racing Championship Round 5 & 2023 HQ Holden Nationals, Morgan Park Raceway [Cord Owners and Gatherers Society] 18 November: 70th Anniversary Celebration, Broncos League Club [Brisbane Sporting Car Club] 19 November: Open Sprint Round 5, Willowbank Motorsport Park [Ipswich West Moreton Auto Club] 19 November: Round 10 2023 Club Championship, Reef and Rainforest Track [Douglas Shire Motor Sport Association]

12 November: Impreza WRX Club (NSW) - Motorkhana Series Round 6, Sydney Motorsport Park [Impreza WRX Club] 12 November: MGCCN MK6 Dirt Motorkhana, Ringwood Park Motorsport Complex [MG Car Club (Newcastle)] 12 November: November Huntley Hillclimb, Huntley Hillclimb [Wollongong Sporting Car Club] 12 November: November Khanacross, John Windsor Motorsport Park [Bathurst Light Car Club] 12 November: Round 7 Porsche Club NSW Inc Supersprint Championship, Sydney Motorsport Park [Porsche Club NSW] 12 November: The Movember S1 Rallysprint, Nabiac Motorsport Complex [Central North Coast Sporting Car Club] 16 November: SMSP Night Sprints, Sydney Motorsport Park [Driving Solutions International ] 16 November: Whiteline Tarmac Rallysprint Series 2023/24 - Round 2, Sydney International Dragway [North Shore Sporting Car Club] 16-19 November: (ACT) Subaru Canberra Rally of Canberra, ACT Forests [Brindabella Motor Sports Club] 18-19 November: Albert Weekend, Orange [Gnoo Blas Classic Car Club] 18-19 November: TSCC Club Lap Dash, Oakburn Park [Tamworth Sporting Car Club] 19 November: (ACT) SDMA Club Hillclimb, Fairbairn Park Hillclimb [Southern District Motorsports Association] 19 November: Coffs Coast Festival of Motorsport Hillclimb Round 2, Raleigh Motorsports Complex [Coffs Harbour And District Sporting Car Club]

46 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Photo: Challenge Bathurst

NSW: 23-26 November – Challenge Bathurst At Mount Panorama, hosted by Accelerate Events

19 November: Round 4 CQMSC Khanacross, Rosel Park [Central Queensland Motor Sporting Club] 25 November: Kingy's Cup, Tepon Raceway [FNQ Motorsports Club] 25-26 November: Mt Cotton Hillclimb Series Round 6, Mt Cotton [MG Car Club of Qld] 26 November: Coffs Festival of Motorsport Round 3, Mountain View Motorsport Complex [Grafton Sporting Car Club] 26 November: Drivers Challenge, Willowbank Motorsport Park [Ipswich West Moreton Auto Club]

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

10-12 November: Legends of the Lake Hillclimb, Mount Gambier [South Eastern Automobile Club Of SA] 11-12 November: SA Motorsport Series Enduro, The Bend Motorsport Park [The Bend Motorsport Park] 12 November: SCCSA 2023 Collingrove Season Finale, Collingrove Hillclimb [Sporting Car Club Of SA] Photo: Shannons Adelaide Rally

16-19 November: 2023 Shannons Adelaide Rally, Adelaide [Massive Events Corp] 21-26 November: VAILO Adelaide 500, Adelaide Street Circuit [South Australian Motor Sport Board] 22 November: Driving Solutions Track Day at the VAILO Adelaide 500, Adelaide Street Circuit [Driving Solutions International] 23 November: Girls on Track - Inspire and Pathways, Adelaide [Motorsport Australia]

TASMANIA

11-12 November: 2023 Tasmanian Circuit Racing Championship Round 6, Pepsi Max Baskerville Raceway [Hobart Sporting Car Club] 12-19 November: Tassie Tour of '23, Devonport [Mazda MX-5 Club Of Victoria and Tasmania] 18-19 November: Khanacross Summer Series Round 1, Baskerville Raceway [500 Car Club of Tasmania] 25 November: BJR Engineering Super Sprint, Symmons Plains Raceway [North West Car Club] 26 November: CMI Domain Hillclimb 2023, Upper Queens Domain [Club Motori Italia]

SA: 16-19 November – Shannons Adelaide Rally In Adelaide and surrounds, hosted by Massive Events Corp

VICTORIA

10-12 November: Historic Sandown, Sandown International Raceway [Victorian Historic Racing Register] 10-12 November: RSM Round 3 Mafeking Cup, Mafeking Rover Park [Rover Scout Motor Sport] 10-13 November: HK HT HG Holden Nationals, Princess Park Queenscliff [HK HT HG Holden Owners Club of Vic] 11 November: King of the Khana's, Werribee [Nissan Car Club Australia] 11 November: MADCC Round 8, Boisdale [Maffra and District Car Club] 11 November: Wodonga Drive Day, Wodonga Tafe Circuit [Porsche Centre Melbourne]

11-12 November: 2023 Victorian Super Sprint Championship & PIARC Phillip Island Super Sprint R5, Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit [Phillip Island Auto Racing Club] 12 November: Spettacolo Concorso and Show n Shine, Glen Waverley [Alfa Romeo Owners' Club Of Australia (Vic)] 18 November: Barnawartha Come and Try/Sprint Day, Motorsport Training Facility Barnawartha [Victorian Motorsport and Cruise Club] 18 November: Lucas Automotive Southern Classic Rally, Marysville [Ford Four Car Club] 18-19 November: King of the Hill, One Tree Hill [Ararat Car Club] 19 November: 31st Historic & Classic Rob Roy Hillclimb, Rob Roy Hillclimb [MG Car Club Victoria] 19 November: Closed Club Autocross Championship Round 10, Kyneton Rollinson Reserve [Kyneton Car Club] 19 November: GMSC & WDCC Avalon Khanacross, Geelong Motorsports Complex [Geelong Motor Sport Club] 19 November: Maserati Display Day, Melbourne [Maserati Owners Club of Australia] 19 November: METEC Driver Training Session, Metec Driver Training Complex [MG Car Club Victoria] 19 November: PCV President's Day 2023, Sandown International Raceway [Porsche Club Of Victoria] 24-26 November: 2023 Island Magic, Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit [Phillip Island Auto Racing Club] 25 November: November 2023 Come Try Day, Sandown International Raceway [HSV Owners Club Of Victoria] 25 November: Send it Saturday's, Calder Park Raceway [Driftworx] 25 November: VCAS Round 11, Swan Hill Motorplex [Swan Hill Sporting Car Club] 25-26 November: Geelong Revival Motoring Festival, Geelong Waterfront [Geelong Revival] 25-26 November: RAAF Auto Club Sprint, RAAF Base East Sale [RAAF Auto Club Of East Sale] 26 November: Kyneton Car Club Junior and Senior Development Day, Kyneton Rollinson Reserve [Kyneton Car Club]

WESTERN AUSTRALIA Photo: Victorian Sports Sedan Championship

VIC: 11-12 November – 2023 Island Magic At Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, hosted by Phillip Island Auto Racing Club

12 November: SWTCC Motorkhana Round 2 2023, Bunbury Speedway [South West Touring Car Club] 24 November: Joondalup Festival of Motoring, Joondalup [Australian Safari] 26 November: Infinite Time Attack, CARCO.com. au Raceway [Competition Drivers Club Of WA]

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 47

American GT4 Championship Photo: SRO

GT4 CONFIRMS STANDALONE 2024 CALENDAR Top-level SRO-promoted GT racing in Australia will expand in 2024 with confirmation that GT4 cars will compete as part of the Motorsport Australia national championship.

Property of the SRO Motorsport Group, which launched it in 2007, GT4 has developed into one of the world’s most successful Motorsport categories with thousands of cars sold and more than 300 currently racing in more than 20 SRO promoted or licensed series around the globe. Whilst GT4 competition has been in Australia for many years, it has previously generally competed as part of the Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia powered by AWS.

The GT4 Series will consist of six rounds as part of the Shannons SpeedSeries, kicking off at the worldfamous Phillip Island circuit in Victoria. The category will also visit The Bend in South Australia, Queensland Raceway, Sydney Motorsport Park and the Australian mecca of motorsport – Mount Panorama, Bathurst. Racing formats and other regulations for the all-new GT4 Category will be confirmed in due course.

In 2024 the GT4 Series will now operate as a dedicated category in it’s own right and will be managed by SRO Motorsports Group, utilising the global BoP formula that has been developed in conjunction with manufacturers. 48 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

"We see GT4 as a vital piece in the growth of GT Racing throughout Australia as we plan on building GT Racing in Australia as we have globally.

“We see GT4 as a vital piece in the growth of GT Racing "GT4 globally is a designed throughout category for both semiprofessional and young Australia” aspiring professional

The calendar for the popular GT3 championship – the Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia powered by AWS – will also be confirmed in the coming weeks. Under SRO, GT4 competition has grown in popularity across the world, offering competitors value for money racing for both professional and amateur drivers and teams.

FFSA GT Championship Photo: SRO / Patrick Hecq Photography

"SRO are very excited to enter GT4 into the Australian Motorsport market as a stand-alone category for the first time in 2024," said Ratel.

In line with GT3 racing under the SRO banner, the competition that includes many different car brands is managed by a Balance of Performance (BoP), ensuring a fair championship battle for all brands competing. Founder and Global CEO of SRO Motorsports Group, Stephane Ratel, stated the importance of the GT4 platform in Australia.

drivers which is why we will be implementing the same philosophy in Australia."

All races in the 2024 GT4 Series will be broadcast live as part of the Shannons SpeedSeries events.

2024 GT4 CALENDAR Round 1: Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit - 12-14 April Round 2: Shell V-Power Motorsport Park (The Bend) - 24-26 May Round 3: Queensland Raceway - 19-21 July Round 4: TBC - 30 August - 1 September Round 5: Sydney Motorsport Park - 18-20 October Round 6: Supercheap Auto Bathurst International - 8-10 November

CONTACT US The Motorsport Australia member hotline is open from 9am to 5pm AEST So for all your motorsport needs call the Motorsport Australia Hotline on 1300 883 959, or visit the website at motorsport.org.au Email memberservices@motorsport.org.au

l Hit up Motorsport Australia on social media for photos from events, news, videos and other great motorsport content.

SEND US YOUR STORIES If you have a motorsport story which you think should be told, get in touch with us and it could appear in Speed Read. If you have pictures or videos of motorsport you would like to share with us, we encourage you to do so. They could appear on our website, social media platforms or in Speed Read. Please email communications@motorsport.org.au We look forward to hearing from you.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 49

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