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The ANDRA Member Benefits Program has been created to offer its loyal members the opportunity to receive discounts to products from supporting companies. By joining the program, your business and products will be promoted to a performance-based target audience. Participating businesses of the ANDRA Member
Benefits Program receive promotion through ANDRA’s database of over 5000 members and race fans, as well as exposure through the ANDRA website and the regular MotorMail email newsletter. This is the perfect platform to launch new products, advertise monthly specials and any other sale promotions you may have.
FREE TO JOIN! MEMBER BENEFITS?
If you would like more information on the program or want to complete your free registration, please visit www.andra.com.au/directory/andra-member-benefits-program
To view a listing of all ANDRA Member Benefits Program offers, please go to www.andra.com.au/directory/member-benefits-program-directory
As a valued ANDRA business partner, you can receive maximum exposure through the ANDRA Drag Racing brand and its events. Your company will be showcased whenever and wherever possible and there is a host of ways you can support ANDRA drag racing, including investment in the following:
For more information and to discuss opportunities, contact info@andra.com.au
WEBSITE RECOGNITION
MOTOR MAIL FEATURE –
MOTOR MAIL IS OUR MEMBERS ONLY NEWSLETTER, CONTACT US TO SEE AN EXAMPLE IF YOU DON’T HAVE AN ANDRA MEMBER LOGIN
FACEBOOK/X/INSTAGRAM RECOGNITION
ANDRA REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
ANDRA REGIONAL SPORTSMAN CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES SPONSORSHIP
STAGING LANES 2025/2026 ANDRA CHAMPIONS POSTER
ANDRA is pleased to confirm that the traditional poster celebrating our latest champions will be released in the coming months.
Once released, it will be available for electronic download, and printed copies will also be on offer at ANDRA Sportsman Championship rounds across the coming season. Stay tuned!
GALLAGHER VOLUNTEER OF THE
YEAR AWARD NOMINATIONS OPEN NOW
ANDRA wouldn’t be what it is without the tireless efforts of our volunteer force. At race tracks all around the country, dedicated volunteers work to ensure that competitors have a place to race.
Nominations for the Gallagher Volunteer of the Year Award, which is designed to recognise the outstanding contribution and passion of volunteers who selflessly donate their time to ANDRA drag racing, are open now for 2026.
ANDRA Members and Clubs are encouraged to put forward a volunteer they admire for this Award – please click here to access the 2026 nomination form.
Nominations close 31 October 2026, with the winner/s to be announced in the New Year.
CEO UPDATE
To say the past few months have been challenging would be an understatement.
The drag racing industry continues to be as dynamic as ever and navigating everything that is thrown at ANDRA is the most difficult part of my role.
Our membership base is dedicated and loyal to the ANDRA brand and while that is our greatest strength, it can also work against us. We are a small membership based, not for profit organisation, with only three full time staff, and like any similarly structured organisation, member opinions will differ and every decision made will have detractors. And that is OK. It is ok to disagree. It is OK to have healthy debate. It keeps ANDRA true to its purpose.
At the same time, a level of trust and respect needs to be extended at times. We will never please everyone, all of the time, and there are always sound reasons for making decisions, and there will be some decisions that you will not agree with. Sometimes decisions are for reasons which are not public. The commercial reality is that confidentiality and privacy are big factors when making decisions.
ANDRA needs to be able to work towards our strategic objectives. The ANDRA Board knows that our members want ANDRA to sanction more tracks, we know that our members want ANDRA to expand our footprint and we all share that same vision. How we get there is difficult but I can assure you that the ANDRA Board have those objectives front of mind.
But the world isn’t simple. The Australian drag racing industry is very small but very competitive with a lot of moving parts, some working against us.
We don’t have endless cash reserves to throw at tracks in an effort to expand the brand. However, ANDRA can stand tall, knowing the way we do business is sound and is with integrity. Rumours and social
media posts don’t help the situation either, nor does the negativity that is sometimes spread by members and others. If you are ever unsure about something you hear, call the office and ask!
Don’t always believe everything you hear about ANDRA, rumours like we are going broke and won’t be here much longer are farcical. Yes, we will record a significant loss this last financial year, but we knew that with the closure of the Perth drag strip.
While we expected to be operating Perth again by now, it hasn’t eventuated through a process where we have had no control (over project timing or communication), but we still have plenty in reserve to keep paying bills when they fall due. We now have more clarity and are counting the weeks for the drag strip to open again.
Another classic example from earlier in the year, was a suggestion we would lose management of the Perth Motorplex - but this was clearly untrue as we have a signed five-year agreement which became effective last year, which is great news for our racing community.
We have so much to look forward to with the re-birth of the Perth Motorplex. There will be some big bold initiatives announced over the coming weeks which are proven promotional and marketing strategies and will see the sport grow in WA.
There is so much to look forward with a reset which will put drag racing on the map again, and everyone needs to get on the train and come for the ride!
We recently conducted a member survey and it has delivered a lot of positive feedback, much of which is being acted upon. Some of it is strategic (for example, expanding the ANDRA brand) and while you may not see a direct result tomorrow, we are working towards those outcomes. But the survey does highlight the things we can do better and we will take it all on
Photo thanks to BrightDesign.com.au
board and embrace it with the resources we have, as a goal for continuous improvement.
Obviously the Grand Final timing issues and Investigation Tribunal has also taken some focus since the end of April. While we did not understand the extent or seriousness of the problem on the night, it soon became evident in the following days, when it was discovered a missing timing block had compromised everything.
It was a big issue, but we can’t go back and change it. All I can do is apologize to all of the competitors for the mistakes that were made and the outcome on the night. What we will do now, is learn from it and move forward and adopt the recommendations of the tribunal.
We have some work to do, but in announcing our new calendar, it fills me with confidence that we will deliver what our members want moving forward. The future is full of opportunities and with opportunity comes growth. There is so much to look forward to.
Thank you again for your unwavering support of ANDRA and I look forward to seeing you at the track. If you have any questions, comments or feedback, don’t be shy to ask.
ANDRA Chief Executive Officer Tim McAvaney
ANDRA DIVISIONAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS COMPLETED
Following completion of the ANDRA Divisional Elections for 2026, the make-up of the five Divisional Councils has been confirmed.
Congratulations to Andrew Frost, Paul Garbellini, Phil Paton, Alistair McClure, Connor McClure and Sandro Principe who were elected to the Western Australia Divisional Council by the Western Australian members, and to Dan Hodgins, Simon Van Ballekom and Michael Galway who join their respective DCs unopposed.
Thank you to all of the nominees for their interest in becoming more involved within ANDRA drag racing. Thank you also to the Western Australian members who voted in the WA elections.
A special thanks to those members who have dedicated their efforts to ANDRA and who concluded their time as DC members from the May 31 changeover – Geoff Chaisty, Ian Jenkins, Michael Tomas, Kym Puckridge and Shane Walker.
Divisional Council Members (effective June 1)
Western Australia
• Murray O’Connor (Division Director)
• Nick Gardiner
• Andrew Frost (re-elected)
• Phil Paton (elected)
• Alistair McClure (elected)
• Connor McClure (elected)
• Sandro Principe (re-elected)
• Paul Garbellini (re-elected)
• Bailey McClure
• Brodie Zappia
Queensland
• Craig Baker (Division Director)
• Nathan Peirano (re-elected un-opposed)
• Aaron Stibbs (re-elected un-opposed)
• Ross Bryant (re-elected un-opposed)
• Casual vacancies to be filled
Victoria/Tasmania
• Rob Cassar (Division Director) (re-elected unopposed)
• Doug Penna
• Tim Stewart (re-elected un-opposed)
• Sue Stewart (re-elected un-opposed)
• Bill Caris (re-elected un-opposed)
• Simon Van Ballekom (elected un-opposed)
• Edgel Mallis (re-elected un-opposed)
• John Parisi (re-elected un-opposed)
• Mark Busscher
• Michael Galway (elected un-opposed)
Central Australia
• Tony Miskelly (Division Director) (re-elected unopposed)
• Ryan Lee
• Bradley Hicks
• Mathew Walden
• Dan Hodgins (elected)
• Cory Read (re-elected un-opposed)
• Greg Oberti (re-elected un-opposed)
• Leith Darrach (re-elected un-opposed)
• Maxine Oppes (re-elected un-opposed)
• Craig Plummer
New South Wales
• Aaron Brookes (Division Director) (re-elected unopposed)
• Andrew Hurst
• David Erickson
• Joe Khoury
• John Willard
• Garry Watterson
• Darryl Stephen
• Paul Stephen
• Joe Polito (re-elected un-opposed)
• Position vacant
INVESTIGATION TRIBUNAL REPORT PART 2 FINALISED
ANDRA recently confirmed that the ANDRA Sportsman Series Grand Final Investigation Tribunal had presented Part 2 of its report to the ANDRA Board.
The recommendations, consideration, and summary of this report have been published on the ANDRA website.
The Summary of the Tribunal Report is as follows:
The Tribunal acknowledges the significant timing issues stemmed from the failure to replace the damaged 1320-ft reflector block.
While the system’s display screen showed no faults, multiple witness testimonies indicated clear issues affecting race integrity.
There was an unfortunate series of events that culminated in the event being concluded while not understanding the enormity of the timing system problem.
Gaps in training and experience contributed to the failure.
Safeguards must now be put in place to ensure that human error/omission is not a factor in contributing to this type of outcome again.
It needs to be made clear so that every Meeting Director has unambiguous guidance in the future, that the integrity of the results comes first. A clear statement of principle that ensuring the integrity of results is the Meeting Director’s priority over completion of the meeting is recommended.
The detailed report recommends a series of improvements, which the ANDRA Board accepts must proceed.
The full report has also been shared with Dragway at the Bend, the host venue of the ANDRA Grand Final.
The ANDRA Board has deemed that, in line with its duty of care to the emotional wellbeing of ANDRA members and officials, the report will not be published in full.
For the full details, as well as the report’s final recommendations and general considerations, please click here.
MEMBERS HAVE THEIR SAY IN 2026 ANDRA MEMBER SURVEY
The 2026 ANDRA Member Survey closed on 11 June, with 149 members from all across the country taking the time to provide their input on a range of questions.
ANDRA will now take great care to consider these responses, analysing the data to guide future decision-making in the
best interests of members, with further discussion of the findings to be released at a future date.
In the meantime, ANDRA would like to thank the members who submitted their thoughts to the survey – your efforts are greatly appreciated.
DIVISION CHAMPIONS ANNOUNCED
Alongside our 2025/2026 ANDRA Regional Sportsman Series Champions ANDRA is pleased to celebrate our Divisional Champions for the season, as follows:
CENTRAL AUSTRALIA
Jake Hamilton-Moderate Competition Bike
Tommy Turic Top Sportsman
Mark Hunt Supercharged Outlaws
Daniel Hodgins Modified
Darren Russell Super Sedan
Neil Mellett Super Street
Bryan Finn Modified Bike
Cooper Plummer Junior Drag Bike
Cody Hunt Junior Dragster
Tony Romeo Super Gas
New South Wales
Mitch Oxley Competition
John Kuiper Super Stock
Cheryl Beddoes Competition Bike
Darryl Stephen Top Sportsman
Paul Stephen Supercharged Outlaws
Chelsea Smith Modified
Sean Maher Super Sedan
Luke “Tex” Griffiths Super Street
Gareth Wilcox Modified Bike
Zayne Condello Junior Dragster
Luke Romeo Super Gas
Queensland
Warren Allen Competition
Lee Povey Top Sportsman
Garthe McIntyre Supercharged Outlaws
Thomas Parry Super Sedan
Adam Hill Modified Bike
Charli Nurzenski Junior Dragster
Richard Caval Super Gas
Victoria & Tasmania
Craig Geddes Competition
Shayne Reid Super Stock
Edgell Mallis Competition Bike
Daniel Jones Top Sportsman
Shane Baxter Supercharged Outlaws
Adriana Cartledge Modified Tony Tedesco Super Sedan
Malcolm Todd Super Street
Dean Jamieson Modified Bike
Austin Walpole Junior Drag Bike
Taylor Horton Junior Dragster
Graeme Spencer Super Gas
Western Australia
Connor McClure Competition
Kim Fardella Super Stock
Kasey McClure Supercharged Outlaws
Jacob Mills Super Sedan
Lisa Garbellini Super Street
Ian Read Modified Bike
Riley Kilvington Junior Drag Bike
Tyler Jarvis Junior Dragster
2026/2027 ANDRA SPORTSMAN SERIES
CALENDAR RELEASED
Featuring 13 points-paying events across the five states, the new season opens with an Alice Springs double in August and concludes with a two-day Grand Final in April 2027
The Australian National Drag Racing Association (ANDRA) is pleased to release the complete ANDRA Regional Sportsman Series calendar for the 2026/2027 season.
The action kicks off at the Alice Springs Inland Dragway (ASID) with the previously confirmed Desert Nationals on Saturday, August 29 and Sunday, August 30.
From the Northern Territory, the series heads to regional Victoria, with the Sunset Strip in Mildura to host the juniorsonly Junior Nationals (September 11–13) followed by the all-brackets Sunset Nationals the very next weekend (September 19–20).
October will then feature both the bikes-only All Bike Nationals (October 10) and the Spring Nationals (October 22–25) at South Australia’s Dragway at The Bend, with the latter also serving as the 2026 season finale for the NDRC’s Group One and Aeroflow Sportsman title chases.
In November, competitors will get their first of three opportunities to race on the new surface at the Perth
Motorplex with the Goldenstates set to return to its traditional late-November timeslot (November 20–21).
The attention of the ANDRA drag racing community will then turn to South Coast Raceway in Portland (Victoria) to close out the calendar year and open the next, with both the South Coast Nationals (December 5–6) and South Coast 660 (January 2–3) set to bring plenty of exciting racing to the coastal venue.
The second half of the season will then continue in high stakes fashion, first with the return of the ANDRA Drag Racing Masters at Sydney Dragway on January 23 following its successful debut in 2026, with this event to be held over a single thrilling day/night program.
The series will then head back to Western Australia, for two marquee events in what is already shaping up as the biggest week in Australian drag racing: a yet-to-be-named event on February 19-20 will be followed by the renowned Westernationals on February 27-28.
The season will then conclude with an epic grand final weekend, as the ANDRA Grand Finals take over Dragway at The Bend – this time across two huge days on April 23–24.
For the full story, please click here.
2026/2027 ANDRA SPORTSMAN SERIES
CHAMPIONSHIP CALENDAR
August 29, 2026 - Desert Nationals
Alice Springs Inland Dragway (NT)
August 30, 2026
Desert Nationals, Alice Springs Inland Dragway (NT)
September 11-13, 2026
Junior Nationals* – Sunset Strip, Mildura (VIC)
September 19-20, 2026
Sunset Nationals – Sunset Strip, Mildura (VIC)
October 10, 2026 – All Bike Nationals** Dragway at The Bend, Tailem Bend (SA)
October 22-25, 2026 – Spring Nationals Dragway at The Bend, Tailem Bend (SA)
November 20-21, 2026 Goldenstates Perth Motorplex, Perth (WA)
December 5-6, 2026 - South Coast Nationals
South Coast Raceway, Portland (VIC)
January 2-3, 2027 - South Coast 660
South Coast Raceway, Portland (VIC)
January 23, 2027 - ANDRA Drag Racing Masters
Sydney Dragway, Sydney (NSW)
February 19-20, 2027 – Event name TBC Perth Motorplex, Perth (WA)
February 27-28, 2027 – Westernationals Perth Motorplex, Perth (WA)
April 23-24, 2027 – ANDRA Grand Finals Dragway at The Bend, Tailem Bend (SA)
and
CELEBRATING YOUR 2025/2026
ANDRA REGIONAL SPORTSMAN CHAMPIONS
AFTER A HARD-FOUGHT 2025/2026 ANDRA REGIONAL SPORTSMAN CHAMPIONSHIP SEASON, ANDRA IS PROUD TO CELEBRATE OUR LATEST CROP OF CHAMPIONS.
Claiming the top honours for their respective brackets are Graeme Spencer (Three Dimensional Construction Super Gas), Zayne Condello (Junior Dragster), Cooper Plummer (New Gen Business Park Junior Drag Bike), Dean Jamieson (Ballistic Performance Parts Modified Bike), Neil Mellett (Goodyear Racing Super Street), Darren Russell (South Australian Drag Racers Association Super Sedan), Adriana Cartledge (Gallagher Modified), Shane Baxter (New Gen Business Park Supercharged Outlaws), Tommy Turic (Top Sportsman), Edge Mallis (New Gen Business Park Competition Bike), Shayne Reid (Super Stock) and Connor McClure (Competition Eliminator).
For Plummer, it was a particularly successful season, as well as being heralded as the New Gen Business Park Junior Drag Bike Championship winner, he was also named as the 2026 John Storm Memorial Trophy winner – the first ever Junior Drag Bike competitor to do so, and the first Junior racer since 2015.
Also receiving plenty of praise are the championship runners-up: Jason Wilson (Three Dimensional Construction Super Gas), Taylor Horton (Junior Dragster), Bailey Paul (New Gen Business Park Junior Drag Bike), Bryan Finn (Ballistic Performance Parts Modified Bike), Malcolm Todd (Goodyear Racing Super Street), Tony Tedesco
(South Australian Drag Racers Association Super Sedan), Dan Hodgins (Gallagher Modified), Mark Hunt (New Gen Business Park Supercharged Outlaws), Darryl Stephen (Top Sportsman), Cheryl ‘MsVrod’ Beddoes (New Gen Business Park Competition Bike), and Craig Geddes (Competition Eliminator). There was no championship runnerup awarded for Super Stock.
ANDRA congratulates each of the champions, runners-up, and each and every racer who took part in a thrilling season, taking in the Hidden Valley Drag Strip, Alice Springs Inland Dragway, the Sunset Strip, Dragway at the Bend, South Coast Raceway, and Sydney Dragway.
SUPER GAS
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER:GRAEMESPENCER
Images thanks to Ben Alexander / Snap Shot Media
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER Graeme Spencer
“I have five championships now. I got my first one in 2005, and 21 years later I have my fifth. I used to be the only Super Gas racer with four titles, now I can say I am the only one to have five, and I am over the moon,” Spencer said.
“I want to say thank you to everybody: SADRA for sponsoring Super Gas, the Mildura track, the Portland track, ANDRA, all my opponents – they are good people, awesome people –my missus Karen for being the best crew chief, Jordy, and everyone who has helped for the past twenty years. There are too many people to mention.”
When asked what his upcoming racing plans are, Spencer grinned: “I am the only one to have five, now I can’t wait to make it number six!”
“That could take a couple of years, who knows. I am starting to work on the car now, getting ready for next season.”
CHAMPIONSHIPRUNNER-UP: JASONWILSON
“Being runner-up is something I didn’t think would happen to me with the stiff competition in this class, but I suppose consistency pays off,” Wilson said.
“It means the world to me to come runner up – of course it would’ve been good to go one better, but when you are racing a four – now five times – champ you’ve got your work cut out for you.
“The ANDRA Sydney Drag Racing Masters event was a standout for me, to have a win with my wife and daughter there was amazing.
“I would really like to thank my wife Mechelle and daughter Grace, to have them beside me is the best, and also Race Radiators, Pro Automatics, AutoTek Automotive, Premier Roof Coatings, PJT Accounting, and ANDRA. Congratulations also to Spence on winning his fifth championship.”
JUNIOR DRAGSTER
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER:ZAYNECONDELLO
Images thanks to Cackling Pipes, Canoli Photography
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER Zayne Condello
“It truly feels amazing to have won the championship,” Condello said. “This championship is definitely something special to me as it was my last ANDRA meeting in Juniors before I age out.
When asked about the highlight of his season (outside of winning the title), Condello pointed to ANDRA’s return to Sydney Dragway: “not only because it was for a Gold tree, but for ANDRA to be back in Sydney after so many years, it was an honour to be able to actually take out that meeting, while also grabbing the points cap and my first Gold ANDRA Tree.”
“Winning Junior Nationals for the fourth year in a row was pretty special too, and back-to-back finals with my best mate Luca Lamattina at Sunset Nationals and Junior Nationals. I would like to thank ANDRA, Dragway at The Bend, Nonno, Nunna, Mum, Dad, my two sisters, my partner Ava Walker, the Lamattinas, the Walkers, Scruffy, Harrix3D and Bussoletti Auto Bodies for all of their support.”
Next on the agenda for Condello is a move into the senior ranks
CHAMPIONSHIPRUNNER-UP: TAYLORHORTON
“Although I wanted to take the win, I am very happy on being runner up two years in a row. It means lot to get this far, and I strive to take the win next season,” Horton said.
“My stand out moments were being able to head to the Northern Territory and race in Darwin and Alice Springs –hopefully, the bank of mum and dad can get me back (to the NT) next season!
“I would like to thank Mum, Dad, Lily, Motoworks, Sparkle ‘N’ Shine Housekeeper, Pro Star Motorsport, United Signage, Jason Maggs, and Jason Cunliffe for all the support I have had this season.”
with an eye on first Top Sportsman and eventually Supercharged Outlaws – but first, he is off to America - having been invited to represent Australia at the Eastern Conference Finals in America.
“I am feeling pretty excited, this will be my first time leaving the country and having the opportunity to compete in something so big, it is definitely an honour to be one of the people picked to do this, I feel very privileged.”
Images thanks to Ben Alexander / Snap Shot Media
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER Cooper Plummer
“It was a dream come true to win the title and the John Storm, I still don’t have many words for it, it was the best outcome of what could have happened all season, and I am a little shocked still,” Plummer said. It means a lot, to be the first Junior Bike to win the John Storm Memorial, and the first Junior in 11 years. To have my name on it is just amazing. To win the title, I worked hard for it, I have been chasing an ANDRA title for six years, and to finally get it is a dream come true.
“This is a big reward for everything we have put in, all the kilometres we have travelled, all the people we have helped, all the people who have helped us, it is just massive. It was a great Junior Drag Bike battle; it was really fun having some good competition the entire season and having a five-way battle going into the Grand Final.
“Getting two Gold Christmas Trees in one event is definitely a standout for the season too, I saw Brodie Zappia do it against me a couple of years ago, so I had to do it! I want to say a big thank you to Lucas Bergamin – he is the one who convinced me to get my parents to buy me a Junior Drag Bike and the Grand Final was his last meeting, and I was the last person to
CHAMPIONSHIPRUNNER-UP: BAILEYPAUL
“When they called my name, I was in shock. I knew I had an okay season but I’m still new and didn’t know how the points and so on worked. But I was so very happy,” Paul said.
“It means everything. Coming runner up in my debut season is awesome. I still need to secure my first sponsor,” he grinned, before adding with a wink, “any takers?”
“People don’t realise how hard drag racing is, and either did I. I thought I could just get on my bike and ride as fast as I can. But it is a lot more technical than that and I’m still learning how to ride to my dial in and not break out, but I do love it. There is a lot of time and money involved and a lot of travelling.
“I want to thank mum and dad for financing me and getting me to the meetings; Marius du Toit for his coaching and bike maintenance help; DRASA for their support and guidance; all the competitors in Junior Bike; and the ANDRA officials and volunteers for making the events run.”
knock him out of eliminations! I am looking forward to running the number one, and then hopping onto a bigger bike.
“I want to say thank you to the entire field, ANDRA, SADRA, my mum, dad, and Michael, and all my sponsors and supporters including David Collis, Bridgestone Select Aberfoyle Park, SA Truck Tarps and Service, Westside Hydraulics, Highbury Automotive Services and Repairs , Audisound, Revolution Racegear, Modcon Civil, Sock Lyf, Mike Pasin, Bradley Hicks HB Racing, Maxxi, Lisa Bourne, Allstate Locksmith, and Archie Fabian Motorsport. We couldn’t have done this without you.”
MODIFIED BIKE
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER:DEANJAMIESON
Images thanks to Ben Alexander / Snap Shot Media, Canoli Photography
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER Dean Jamieson
“I felt relieved that we got there in the end. During the season we felt the pressure rising to perform, so we were very relieved and happy to get it done. We just tried to be consistent across the season, which is what it takes to win the championship, to be constantly hitting your numbers,” Jamieson said.
When asked for his season standouts outside of claiming the title, Jamieson points to a special victory: “in the middle of the season we won four events in a row, and the fourth one was at Portland which is basically my home track, and it was the first tree I had won at Portland – that one had eluded me for a while, so I was pretty happy with that one.
As far as what’s next, Jamieson has some decisions to make: “we are in the mix for the NDRC title again so we are running with that at the moment and there is a fair bit of travel involved in that, but we are also trying to work out whether we stay in Modified Bike or make the jump to Competition Bike. Everyone is trying to push me towards that, I reckon they just want me out of Modified Bike,” he laughed.
“I have had an unbelievable couple of years of racing. I want
CHAMPIONSHIPRUNNER-UP: BRYANFINN
“My thoughts on being runner up are, ‘bugga! So close and so far away,” Finn laughs.
“Seriously, being the runner up means a lot, and justifies the adventure.
“The stand out positive moment of the season for me was the trip up north, with back-to-back wins and a great holiday. For negative moments, it has to be the tow car engine bay going up in flames at the pit gate for the Grand Finale!
“I couldn’t have done this without the help and support of my sponsors and friends: ProSmith Overhauling, Deon McHugh Signs, Butlers Mechanical Service, and the NDMA (Northern District Motorsport Association). I also want to give a shout out to Archie Fabian Motorsports for the Darwin trip, and everyone who came to my rescue at the final!”
to thank my family for their support – most importantly my daughter Marissa who travels with me to most events. Also, the people I pit with – Austin Walpole and his family Chris and Robyn, and Peter and Helen Bartlett and their crew. I also want to thank Gavin Dohnt – he is like my tree of knowledge, if I have a question, he always has the answer!
“Thanks also to the entire Modified Bike crew, they are a good family and we all mostly support each other and help each other out. Thanks also to Vicky and Jerry from Casterton Top Shop for all of their support.”
SUPER STREET
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER:NEILMELLETT
Images thanks to Ben Alexander / Snap Shot Media
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER
“I would like to thank the following people, in no particular order,” Neil said. “My Partner Kate, for being my biggest cheerleader and for all of her support throughout the season. My ‘daughter’ Angelina Kondilis (pictured) and family; without you I was not racing this season, and would have missed out on the amazing journey this season was. My Brother Kerry for his support with both mine and Angelina’s season; and Adam Cross from The Garage – without your tireless support this season, it would not have happened.
“My Mother Lyn, my bank account hates you! Craig and Cooper Plummer, and Janelle Mannix – because she always deserves a thank you! Shane Kramer and the Hellraiser SC/O Team –your hospitality and welcoming of us is incredibly appreciated. Wade Morgan of Morgan’s Cranes, the Harris Family – where’s my brisket? Matthew Walden and Bethany Hamilton-Moderate for your warmth, humility, understanding, and diplomacy as Stewards and people. I cannot express how much I appreciate both of you. The Stefanopolous family: I love racing when you guys are around.
“I also want to mention all of the people of Alice Springs Inland
CHAMPIONSHIPRUNNER-UP: MALCOLMTODD
“Reflecting on it, I am quite chuffed about it, I have done the hard yards, and you have got to have a bit of luck, and make your own luck too,” Todd said.
“I think the turning point was when I won my first Tree in Mildura, which felt like the monkey was off my back. I have been racing for a long time, and after that, I just had a really good season. I had a ball in Sydney too, it was my first time going there and racing, and I met a lot of people and top qualified, I was pretty chuffed with that.
“Thank you to Paul Turner Engines, and to my brother Dave who races in Super Sedan. I also want to recognise Stefan (Lainas), I had some tough races against him this season, including beating him at Portland by just a couple of thousandths of a second, I do feel sorry for him for how it all worked out.”
Dragway, Mildura’s Sunset Strip, and Portland’s South Coast Raceway; as well as the entire community of Super Street – you have all been more than welcoming and understanding at the meetings when I have been running both my car and Angelina’s Junior Dragster, you are a great bunch.
“I also want to make a special note of Stefan Lainas – it was a great fought season and you are a quality competitor. I look forward to seeing you in the other lane; that would have been an incredible final.”
SUPER SEDAN
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER:DARRENRUSSELL
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER Darren Russell
“To be the champion, it is all a bit surreal,” Russell said. “It has started to hit home now but once we start racing again for the new season, I think it will hit even harder then. To be a champion at any level, you are in an elite group, there are not too many to do it, so I am still really trying to get my head around it. There are so many people who have been doing it for so many more years who haven’t come close, and that is what I am trying to get my head around. Why me!” he laughed. “Like anything, I guess it is right place at the right time and do the right things, and you will be rewarded. But as I said, it is a bit surreal!
“I want to thank Cory Read from Read’s Mechanical who has been fantastic, and also Ryan from RT Race Craft – these guys have lived at the track all their lives, they are so knowledgeable, and I couldn’t have done it without them. Thank you also to my wife and kids, and my crew, for all of their support. When we first built this car, championship points and titles were never on the radar. It has been a massive learning curve, and it is just surreal, it is going to take a while to sink in. Having three Christmas trees in one season is pretty special too. The Spring Nationals is a big marquee event, and it was completely unexpected, especially with the amount of cars that were racing. Darwin was a standout too, being runner-up there and
CHAMPIONSHIPRUNNER-UP: TONYTEDESCO
“Becoming runner-up is a very surreal moment, I am still trying to come to terms that I am runner-up as it is such a huge achievement. Making it past round one of eliminations is tough in itself, let alone becoming runner up!” Tedesco said.
“Overall, we have had such a positive season. Some meets have been harder than others especially with the competition, however as usual our season was full of laughter, tears of joy, fixing cars, and golf buggies in the pits!
“Despite the hustle and bustle of a race weekend, I wouldn’t change it for the world and can’t wait to do it all over again. I think the stand out moment was holding the Christmas Tree for the first time with my wife by my side.
“I would love to thank Sherif Tawaf who has been there with me since the beginning, alongside my wife Jodie who lets me go racing and who has supported me from the start. My daughter Brodie who has helped so much along the way and I know the runner up position means as much to her as it does myself – I
then going to Alice Springs with unfinished business and winning – that gave us a real leg up in the championship.
“When I went out in the first round (of the Grand Final), I was filthy – I saw a little too much yellow and just had an ordinary reaction time, but I guess overall it doesn’t matter. I do feel sorry for one our mates, Tony Tedesco, he was in the race for the title, and he blew his transmission in his car in qualifying. He was devastated and we were devastated for him – he has been racing 30 years, and this was the closest he has ever come, and at the end of the day he didn’t even get an opportunity to try. The trophy cabinet is looking very nice now with a nice big gold one in the middle, and I am pretty stoked with the big champion banner too!”
wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for her dedication to the sport as well. Thanks also to Peter, Ben and Matt for always being there to support my racing career over the last few years, and lastly thank you to the competitors – it is always an honour to race against every single one of you, I have made so many memories with everyone that I will cherish forever.”
MODIFIED
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER:ADRIANACARTLEDGE
Images thanks to Ben Alexander / Snap Shot Media, Canoli Photography
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER Adriana Cartledge
“Winning the National Championship is something I’m incredibly proud of. It has been a dream of mine ever since I started racing, and this year I finally decided to have a serious try for the title,” Cartledge said. “It wasn’t an easy journey, especially as we started behind in points after not competing at Darwin or Alice Springs, so we had a lot of ground to make up throughout the season. To see all the hard work, determination, and support from my team payoff is truly rewarding. Achieving this championship is a dream come true and a moment I’ll never forget.
“I don’t have one particular event that stands out as my favourite, as we genuinely enjoy every race meeting we attend. What makes the events memorable for me is when my whole family can come along to support us. Sharing those experiences together and celebrating the highs and working through the challenges as a family team is special. One of my biggest achievements throughout the season was making multiple finalround appearances, which allowed me to enter the Grand Final event on maximum points, with a few valuable bonus points in hand.
“I would like to sincerely thank everyone who has supported me throughout the season. A special thank you goes to my husband, Luke, whose dedication, encouragement, and hard work have been a big player in helping me achieve the championship. I
CHAMPIONSHIPRUNNER-UP: DANHODGINS
“It was close – we ended up finishing equal first on the points, with it going back to a countback of who was closest to their dial-in in the last race. I lost it by .015 of a second!” Hodgins said. “Congratulations to Adriana on taking home the championship, well done mate.
“This is the second time we have been runner up, which is pretty cool considering the car was only ever built to support the bracket, and this was only the second time we had chased the national championship. I want to send a huge shout out to all those that helped us chase a dream – from the background supporters to the inspiring crew and the sponsors. It couldn’t have been done without you all, so thanks guys and girls. I wish I could say we will be back bigger and better next year, but the sad reality is I need to save leave for another year to be able to consider trying again. But there’s other things developing in the background here at Hawkeye Motorsport, so stay tuned for next developments!”
would also like to thank Mick and all of our family members who come along to support us at events and help in so many ways, both at and away from the track. Another thank you goes out to our drag racing family and competitors that are always willing to help out with sharing knowledge or parts to keep us on track! I am also incredibly grateful to our sponsors for their ongoing support throughout the season: Pro Street Towing and Transport, Pro Race Engines, Race Max Direct, SRP Competition, ETS Racing Fuels, Wild Ink by Activated Industries, APD Carburettors, BAM Roller Lifters, and Protrans Performance Automatics
“Finally, I would like to extend my thanks to all the tracks we competed at throughout the season, along with the officials, volunteers, safety crews, ANDRA, and the other competitors. Thank you for helping create such a competitive, safe, and enjoyable environment and for making this championship season one that I will always remember.”
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER:SHANEBAXTER
Images thanks to Ben Alexander / Snap Shot Media
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER Shane Baxter
“I was over the moon winning it – I was disappointed going out round one, but the whole meeting we struggled to go down the track. We battled tyre shake all weekend and red lights, but we came out on top and we were very, very happy, and the crew was very happy. It was pretty good, quite good,” Baxter said.
“My best outing (of the season) and one which I always enjoy, is Portland – it is my home track, and I am a member there and always enjoy racing there.
“Mildura has also been a good track to us as well. There it was our first outing with the engine change, and we won the event. I had put a bigger engine in, a big block Chev, and I was thinking that meeting would be a test and we ended up winning that, so that was a bonus. And that set us up for a couple more –two wins and a runnerup – so we had a fair chance (for the championship).
“I used to run Competition, but I am pretty much enjoying what we are doing because it is a lot of fun. With Outlaws you don’t need to be the fastest car to win, and trying not to go fast — and I think the faster you go, the less chance you have of winning to be honest. It is all about consistency, and I am trying to slow myself down because I like going fast! It is a tough class – they are all great people we race with, all the Outlaws guys and girls are all fantastic racers, and it makes it fun.
“I will keep going at it, I am getting older obviously, but I still enjoying the racing and the people I meet up with – it is a really
CHAMPIONSHIPRUNNER-UP: MARKHUNT
“We had a good season, starting in Darwin and going all the way through, and here we are as the runners-up,” Hunt said.
“We congratulate all of the winners of all of the brackets, and we are looking forward to seeing what comes next season.
“I want to say thank you to Dave Baines Engines, ULX110 Custom Oils, all of the tracks, fire and safety staff, and my crew – Maxine, Mark, Corey, Renee, Kim and Kelvin.”
social outing for me, and I am really enjoying it.
“For the upcoming season, I will just start the rounds as they go and play it by ear. Depending on what I collect on the way will depend how many rounds I do. If it all goes to plan, I will do most of the rounds.
“For me, the eighth-mile racing is always a highlight, I absolutely love it.
“I want to thank Brian Oakley from Industry Thermocouple Supplies, Lakeside Automotive, Promatics, ICE Ignition, Duggan Balancing, SDE Converters, and ANDRA. Thank you also to all of the Supercharged Outlaws racers, and my crew – they are all great: my crew chief and son Wade, Ray, Hayden, Mick, and of course Brian Oakley.”
TOP SPORTSMAN
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER:TOMMYTURIC
Images thanks to Ben Alexander / Snap Shot Media
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER Tommy Turic
“It honestly feels unreal to win my first Top Sportsman Championship,” Turic said. “It is a lot of hard work, a lot of dedication and relentless hours. I have won the championship before in Super Street a couple of years ago, so to be able to do it again after having a year break and come back and win it straight after is pretty amazing. I am already looking forward to next season and pushing even harder. Complacency is a killer, so I don’t want to be complacent – we will be running the GTO in Top Sportsman, but with some changes.
“I went into the first round under a lot of pressure. I knew I was capable of being competitive, but after two years out of the seat and with the goal of chasing a championship, the nerves definitely crept in. Winning that first event was a huge relief. It was almost like saying to myself, ‘all right, I’ve found my rhythm. Now it’s time to execute and keep the momentum going. After the opening-round win, I hit a rough patch. My reaction times became inconsistent, and the losses were completely driver error. I lost in the semi-finals at Alice Springs and took it on the chin. Then came a first-round loss at Mildura. I told myself, ‘You can’t win them all.’ But when another first-round loss came at The Bend, it really got to me. At that point, I genuinely thought I had lost my touch. I remember thinking, ‘that’s it, my championship hopes are over.’ But instead of giving up, it lit a fire inside me.
“Heading into Portland, I was more determined than ever. I’d changed my technique and spent countless hours on the
CHAMPIONSHIPRUNNER-UP: DARRYLSTEPHEN
“We were happy with the runner up considering we debuted a new car in the Cougar,” Stephen explains.
“We did the Darwin/Alice Springs tour which was great – the boys really enjoyed the trip as did I, it was great racing with a bunch of great people in the Top Sportsman class. We raced right till the end, but Tommy was too good this year and his win was well deserved.
“I would like to thank my crew in Danny Bardel, Garry Watterson, Peter Laws, and Joe Schott and of course the people who support our team: Maxima Racing Oils, CC Royal Vending Equipment, Dandy Engines, MacArthur Garages, The Corner Post at Westfield Liverpool and of course all those out there that follow us. Plus, I want to say a big thank you to ANDRA for putting the series on for us.”
practice tree leading up to the event. I ended up finishing runnerup after breaking out by just 0.001 seconds. While I was relieved to be back in a final, losing by such a tiny margin only fuelled me even more. That disappointment turned into motivation. The next round, I got the win. At that point, my mindset was simple: ‘time to finish this off and bring home the championship.’
“I want to say a huge thank you to Nick from THR Developments, along with Tommo and Adrian, for their continued support and sponsorship of our racing program. Thank you also to Hugo, Mel, Mark, Maxi, George, Michael, Peter, Katarina, Kim, Max, Roger, Seth, Emily, and many others along the way who I may have missed. Thank you also to our sponsors, THR Developments, D&V Services – SA’s number one demolition and asbestos company –and Adelaide Hills Recycling. And finally, I want to thank the most important person, my Dad. Without him, none of this would be possible. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities he’s given me, both in racing and in life.”
COMPETITION BIKE
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER:EDGEMALLIS
Images thanks to Ben Alexander / Snap Shot Media
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER Edge Mallis
“I don’t think it truly hit me until I replayed that final run,” Edge said. “Watching my crew celebrating trackside brought tears to my eyes. The joy they showed in that moment was something special. After everything that went into the weekend and the season, I feel absolutely ecstatic and incredibly proud of what we achieved together. Those are the moments you work for and never forget. For me, it means I am not done yet. After 46 years in the sport, to still be competing at this level and achieving results like this tells me I’ve still got plenty left to give. The championship is incredibly satisfying, but it also represents years of commitment, persistence and continual development. Achievements like this make all the hard work worthwhile.
“Setting the Kawasaki H2 world record of 7.30@190 mph from a 998cc bike has made this one of the most rewarding years I’ve experienced in the sport, alongside winning the John Storm Trophy last year.”
Looking ahead, Mallis said his immediate focus is continuing to develop the bike. “We want to keep improving the bike’s performance and pushing the limits of what the Kawasaki H2 platform can achieve. We now know there’s definitely a worldfirst six-second pass in it. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved, but we’re always looking for ways to improve and become even more competitive. We’re also seeking a major commercial partner to join our proven championship-winning team as we
CHAMPIONSHIPRUNNER-UP: CHERYL‘MSVROD’BEDDOES
“I was really excited to finish runner-up this year. This is only my second year riding the Destroyer in Comp Bike, and last year I also came second in the NDRC title on the same bike. It was incredibly consistent all season, and I led the championship the whole way through. The competition was tough all year with some great riders who have a lot of experience, and I achieved many PBs on the bike, which I’m really proud of,” Beddoes said.
“I want to send a special thanks to the organisers, volunteers, medics, and fire crews who keep us safe at every track we race at. A massive thank you also to my drag racing partner, Joe Khoury; to my wonderful family for their constant support and encouragement over the past year; and also Jimmy from Twin Tunes Performance for his help, support, and encouragement; and to Adam from Edge Creative Printing for the stunning wrap on the bike. Finally, thank you to all of my fans at the various tracks, and to all of my fellow bike riders – my drag racing family.”
pursue that first six-second pass,” Mallis said.
Mallis also thanked the many people who supported the team throughout the season: “thanks to Luke Stone, Fletcher Walsh, Matthew, Nathan and Corey Stone, Stef Buccella, Rick Williams, Mick Donohue, and Blaze Hansen of Blazecraft for building, tuning and pushing me every step of the way. He has played a major role in the development and performance of this bike, along with refining my riding style.
“Thanks also to my son Jeram, all the Competition Bike racers, ANDRA, the officials, volunteers and event organisers, and finally my gorgeous partner, Letishia, for her unwavering support. While I’m away racing, she takes care of business, allowing me to focus on racing. She has been beside me through the highs and lows, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything she does.”
Images thanks to Ben Alexander / Snap Shot Media
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER Connor McClure
“It obviously felt really good to win the championship and it really put an exclamation mark on our whole season, especially after all the effort from the whole team and family over the last 12 months,” McClure said.
“It is a bit of a long haul from WA, and we put all of our points on the board out of state, so it was pretty cool to do it against some tough competitors. To be the first forced induction car to win a Comp championship since dad did it in 2014 is very cool too.”
McClure’s championship win is proof of the old adage that consistency pays off. “We didn’t win a meet! But we put the car in the position to win at multiple events. We had the consistency to do that, but every time we got to a final, something went wrong!
“Probably the best one though was the first event, as we had a good start and felt like we were going in the right direction. It was good also to go to the regional tracks like Portland and race at tracks like that, as we have always run at big tracks. The vibe was awesome, so Portland is definitely a favourite of the season.
“Probably the most memorable thing for us this season (aside from the championship) is the people we got to meet – all of the new friends as we went to all of the new tracks we had never
CHAMPIONSHIPRUNNER-UP: CRAIGGEDDES
“I want to say a big congratulations to the McClure family race team for their well-deserved win, they put in the effort and the amazing performances,” Geddes said.
“We are proud of our achievements to finish runner up in the series. Looking forward we will continue to work on being one of the most professional and competitive sportsman teams in the country. Warren Allen and I will continue to chase Championship points while also getting Jesse more seat time and experience and hopefully, even his first Christmas Tree.
“I want to send a special thanks to Warren and Deb for backing this team and making racing at this level possible. Thanks also to our families, crew, supporters and racing friends, as well as Summit Racing Equipment, Light Vehicle Solutions, CAE Performance Products, Provincial Glass, Fast Lane Speed Shop, Protrans, VP Racing Fuel, PPE - Don Thomas, and Ridgeway Motorsports.”
been to before. As McClure awaits the reopening of his home track, the Perth Motorplex, there is plenty going on in the garage.
“We are getting all our ducks in a row, we have a new transporter in the build, so we are going to be busy working on that until the track reopens. We are excited to get back on track at home,” he said. In the meantime, I want to say a huge thanks to my family, mum, and dad, for all the work that he puts in in the shed and driving the truck all over the country, along with Troy and Uncle Tim, and obviously Bailey and Kasey and my wife Jade. Thank you also to our crew guys Brad and Russell, to Blaze Hansen, our master tuner, and to all of the people who believe in us and give us the possibility to do all of these things, like BDR Industries, Allfast Race Transmissions, Haltech, Garrett, and Applied Automotive.”
SUPER STOCK
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER:SHAYNEREID
Images thanks to Ben Alexander / Snap Shot Media
CHAMPIONSHIPWINNER Shayne Reid
“To have won an ANDRA championship in our first full season is unbelievable,” Reid said.
“It is something Dad and I have spoken about since I was a kid, and to have won one now, I am speechless.
“It was a challenging season filled with some highs and some lows. We had our first event win in Portland in the closest race I have ever been in, wining by just 0.001. And we thought it was the end of the season for us in Sydney when our good engine hurt a valve, but luckily an older engine we had was able to finish the season, just – as it split a bore in qualifying at the Grand Finals.
“I would like to thank Dad and Jo for providing a championshipcapable car, my partner Jess for all of her support, the team at Cartledge Motorsport, and our sponsors: Paul Rogers Performance Transmissions and Wildcat Customs.
“Thanks also to everyone who helped out throughout the season in many ways. I want to also thank ANDRA, all of the tracks, and the other competitors. I am looking forward to getting back out there next season.”
THANK YOU TO OUR VALUED
SUPPORTING PARTNERS
Across the 2025/2026 ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship, ANDRA has been pleased to have the support of a host of exceptional companies and brands supporting ANDRA racers as they competed for championship honours across an action-packed schedule. ANDRA asks FASTLANE readers to please join it in thanking and showing support of the following companies for their backing of the ANDRA series and ANDRA members:
Bracket sponsors:
Racer Support Program sponsors:
Contingency Program sponsors:
If you would like to be a part of the upcoming season either as a bracket, racer support program, or contingency program sponsor, or would like to discuss other ways you can be involved, please email info@andra.com.au
CHAMPIONSHIP
Photo courtesy of Ben Alexander / Snapshot Media
PERTH MOTORPLEX TRACK
UPGRADE WELL UNDERWAY
The rumble of heavy machinery has temporarily replaced the roar of drag cars at the Perth Motorplex, and it is paving the way for an incredible future.
ANDRA subsidiary and Perth Motorplex lease holder, Evolve Facility Management, is thrilled to report that the highly anticipated drag strip replacement project is officially full steam ahead.
Delivered by VenuesWest, this massive upgrade is designed to support the longterm future of drag racing in Western Australia. After a quarter-century of record-breaking passes, the venue’s original drag strip had reached the end of its serviceable life. This brand-new track will provide competitors, officials, and event partners with a safer, more reliable, and exceptionally consistent racing surface.
For the venue team, seeing this project come to life is a milestone moment.
“We are incredibly proud to be a part of this project, the single-largest investment into Western Australian Drag Racing since the inception of the Perth Motorplex 25 years ago,” said Gavin Migro, General Manager of the Perth Motorplex.
The project officially kicked off with a ground-breaking ceremony on May 8, and by late May, demolition was underway with crews ripping out more than 2,250 tonnes of existing concrete, while a heavy-duty asphalt grinding machine chewed through more than 9,000 square
meters of the track and braking zone.
As of mid-June, the demolition phase was 100 percent completed. At that point, with all the original concrete and asphalt successfully removed from the racing surfaces, the site teams moved into the critical next phase: subgrade and subbase preparation. This vital foundation work is currently underway to prepare the site for the installation of the pristine new concrete racing surface.
Construction and site works are tracking beautifully, with the entire project scheduled to be completed in time for the start of the 2026/2027 drag racing season. The track surface replacement isn’t the only upgrade work being recently undertaken at the ‘Plex, with a major lighting upgrade project also underway.
The project involves the complete removal and replacement of all existing lighting infrastructure servicing both the Drag Strip and Speedway venue.
The existing metal halide lighting system — including poles, cabling and associated infrastructure — is being replaced with a new LED sports lighting system delivering in excess of 1000 lux across key competition areas. This level of illumination is equivalent to overcast daylight.
For any questions regarding the Perth Motorplex upgrades, you can reach out to the venue team directly at info@motorplex.com.au
Pictured (L to R): Perth Motorplex’s management team – current and past leaders – Peter Pike (Inaugural Drag Racing Manager), Kevin Prendergast (Long time General Manager), Con Migro (Perth Motorplex Founder), Daniel Miocevich (Son of Founder The Late Gary Miocevich), Ray Treasure (Drag Racing Manager) and Gavin Migro (General Manager)
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BUSLJETA’S SIX-SECOND HQ MONARO SECURES BEST ENGINEERED HONOURS BEST ENGINEERED
ANDRA’s Best Engineered Award is a specially commissioned trophy presented to the car or motorcycle judged to be the most outstandingly engineered at select premier events, including the ANDRA Grand Finals. To be eligible, a vehicle must have been built or restored within the past five years, be Australian-built, and demonstrate technical excellence in both engineering and detailed presentation.
At the ANDRA Grand Finals, Mario Busljeta was awarded this prestigious honour for his breathtaking, six-secondcapable 1971 Holden HQ Monaro.
While the striking silver and orange Lone O’Ranger exterior was already on the coupe when Busljeta purchased it, what lies beneath the skin has been entirely transformed to create a 3000-plus horsepower weapon proudly supported by his business, Concslab.
“I bought the car the way it is, it was painted like that, and then we stripped the guts out of the whole car and redid it all basically,” Busljeta explained. “The only thing that is left from the original car is the front end. We replaced the gearbox, the motor, the diff, put a four-link in there, and we put the turbos at the back, as we
wanted to be a bit different from everyone else.”
As well as being different, the rearmounting of the twin 94mm Precision turbos helps to keep the engine bay free of heat and clutter, with the turbos woven into a custom rear chassis clip that also hosts a Race Products floating axle rear end. Up front, a beautifully presented 540-cubic-inch Dart Big M big-block Chev, built by Frank Marchese at Dandy Engines, provides impressive power, backed by a manualised M&M Turbo 400 transmission.
Combining functional street-car aesthetics with the engineering required to propel a full-weight, 4000lb streeter to a 6.9-second pass at 209mph, the Monaro is a deserving winner of the ANDRA Best Engineered Award. For Busljeta, the Award is a deeply meaningful reward for the vision and hard work poured into the build.
“It was great to be recognised with the ANDRA Best Engineered Award. To me, it feels like a big deal,” he smiled. “It is a very honourable thing to have, I reckon. We feel honoured.”
Busljeta is quick to commend the fabrication wizardry behind the build, noting that the trophy belongs just as much to those who turned his concepts into a steel reality.
“I am wrapped in it, and so is the guy who has done the work, Andy at Ad Mo Fab. He did the work and I designed it, and we feel together that we both got that, if you know what I mean. When I rang him up and told him that we won, he was just as wrapped as me.”
Like any successful racing operation, the Concslab HQ Monaro has a dedicated team of experts and friends behind it.
“I want to say thank you to Andy and Damo at Ad Mo Fab, Frank from Dandy Engines, and Adam from MPW Performance for all their work on the car,” Busljeta concluded.
“I also really want to thank Cory Read of Read Mechanical, who crews for me and provides plenty of mechanical support as well. And a special thank you to my sons, David and Marinko, for being part of this project and for their crew support. Experiencing this journey with them means a lot to me and makes the achievement even more special.”
Images thanks to Ben Alexander / Snapshot Media
Transit
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and brings a legendary addition for 2026: The Wild Bunch National Titles.
Organisers say fans can expect a massive dose of nostalgia as supercharged, alcohol-burning sedans and classic steelbodied muscle cars battle it out for a dedicated $30,000 slice of the pie.
For die-hard fans, the Wild Bunch is a living tribute to a golden era of Australian motorsport. Category legends like Victor
noting the cars always deliver an unforgettable show. The dragway will be completely lit up on Saturday night for the Heavy Hitters program, where a unique format pits seven-second to 12-second cars against each other in white-knuckle quarter-mile battles.
While the strip will be the main event for drag fans, there is plenty of action elsewhere.
Also turning heads this Father’s Day weekend will be the massive $50,000 Pro Burnout Series purse.
With a cool $30,000 cash going straight to the winner – alongside coveted Summernats 39 Qualifier tickets – it now stands as one of the richest burnout events in the country.
The off-road action is also turning up the heat.
A new knockout-style Dirt Drags competition boasts a $12,000 prize pool, pitting two-wheel, four-wheel, motorbike, and extreme off-road competitors headto-head down a purpose-built dirt track.
On top of it all, a $7,500 winner-takes-all
reward awaits the event’s coveted Grand Champion.
Off the track, the festival atmosphere continues. Across the four actionpacked days, attendees can take in elite Show and Shine displays, motocross demonstrations, legal street cruising, and live entertainment, cementing Red CentreNATS as a complete celebration of automotive culture.
Vehicle entries are open now, with spectator tickets officially dropping in July – for all the info and to enter, visit www.redcentrenats.com.au
NAME: LILY LEE VICKERY AGE: 14
BASED IN: DENNINGTON, VIC
OCCUPATION: STUDENT STARTED RACING: OCT 2023
BEST ET AND SPEED: 7.89 @ 85MPH
SPONSORS: CASSIGN, SPEEDPRO, TWW WARRNAMBOOL, MCNEIL EXCAVATIONS, PAPAS KITCHEN, MARK UNWIN AUTOTRIMMING AND MOTOWORKS
FAVOURITE TV SHOW: SUNCORP NETBALL
FAVOURITE ANDRA TRACK: SOUTH COAST RACEWAY, PORTLAND
LILY LEE VICKERY JUNIOR DRAGSTER
How did you get into racing? “My Dad.”
What do you consider as your racing highlights?
JD RACER PROFILE
“Becoming an A/JD Dragster and making a final at Tailem Bend.”
What do you love about Junior Dragster Racing?
“The community, and all my racing friends. And just the general fun of it.”
What is your ultimate racing goal/dream?
“My dream is to race a Top Fuel Dragster, and my goal is to race a Supercharged Outlaws Dragster.”
What do your school mates think about what you do?
“They think it is very unique, but cool.”
What future goals do you hold for yourself in your racing, and also away from the track?
“Winning a Gold ANDRA Christmas Tree and winning another best and fairest in Netball. “
Is there anyone you would like to thank for being part of your drag racing journey?
“My Parents, my siblings, my Nan and Papa, Keith Hards, the Plummer family, and Grace Carr.”
thanks to Ben Alexander / Snap Shot Media
NAME: DAVID BUNNIK AGE: 59
BASED IN: WESTERN VICTORIA OCCUPATION: PLUMBER
STARTED RACING 2000
CLASSES COMPETED: SUPER STREET AND MODIFIED
BEST ET AND SPEED: 5.53 AND 121MPH
FAVOURITE TV SHOW: OUTBACK TRUCKERS
FAVOURITE FOOD: BEEF SCHNITZEL
FAVOURITE ANDRA TRACK: SOUTH COAST RACEWAY
DAVID BUNNIK
GOODYEAR RACING SUPER STREET
How did you get into drag racing?
“I used to do motorbike racing, motorcross and that kind of stuff, and I fell off a couple of times, and then I thought, ‘well maybe four wheels would be better than two,’ and they have been! I haven’t been busted up as much!”
What is it you love about racing in Modified?
“It is probably the other competitors, they are very respectful of everybody, and they are very respectful of their safety. They are very tough competitors and don’t give you an inch, but they are all nice, a real nice group of people.”
What was the highlight of your 2025/2026 ANDRA season?
“Being the runner-up in Modified at South Coast’s 20th anniversary meeting. That was a pretty big meeting for them, Phil Lamattina was there with his machine, and it was a really good meeting.”
What is your home track and what do you love about it?
“South Coast Raceway – it is a really good group of people there running the show.”
Is there anyone who you would like to shine the spotlight on for their involvement in your racing?
“We are a family show, very low-key – we do it more for the fun than for anything else.
First and foremost is my wife, Linda, she is the main contributor who helps me with the car and race days, and the kids – Dale, Jake, and Stuart when he is over from NZ –come along and give me a hand from time to time as well.”
Photo courtesy of Ben Alexander / Snap Shot Media
ROCKYNATS 06 DELIVERS BUMPER WEEKEND
Rare Spares and Repco Rockynats brought another bumper event to Rockhampton in April, with record-breaking entrant numbers, a total attendance of over 65,000 at ticketed venues, plus an estimated 5000 people who enjoyed the free street parade on Friday.
Delivered in partnership between Rockhampton Regional Council and Summernats, the event continues to attract thousands of visitors to the region each year, with an action-packed program of street drags, drifts, burnouts, elite show cars and off-track entertainment. A record 1,900 entrants took part in Rockynats 06, with 1,379 vehicles participating in Friday’s iconic Street Parade, making it the longest parade in the event’s six-year history.
In 2025, Rockhampton Regional Council and Summernats locked in their second five-year partnership to deliver Rockynats through to 2030, cementing its position as Queensland’s largest car and bike festival and one of the nation’s premier automotive events.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said the success of Rockynats 06 is a reflection of strong community support and the continued growth of the event.
“I am really proud of what we have been able to do over the last six events, creating and building an event that people love to come back to. We’ve seen excellent ticket sales again this year, incredible entrant numbers and yet another record broken
with Friday’s street parade,” said Mayor Williams.
“I really have to give credit to Summernats, the event sponsors and the Advance Rockhampton team who year after year pull this event together and make it what it is. For us this is about seeing those thousands of people visit our region, drive economic activity and support local business and jobs.”
“I’m already looking forward to next year and keen to see people returning to the region for what I’m sure will be another exceptional event.”
Sporting superfans, Lachlan and Bailey Carter of Those Carter Boys, who have earnt national recognition for their die-
hard attendance at the nation’s biggest sporting events including Bathurst 1000, the Olympics and Formula 1, were among the thousands of spectators impressed by the scale and atmosphere of Rockynats 06.
“We’ve been to events all over the world, and Rockynats absolutely stacks up with the best of them. The atmosphere is unreal, the variety of cars and competition is next level, and the way the whole city gets behind it makes it something really special. It’s one of those events you can’t miss if you’re a motorsport fan.”
Summernats Director Andy Lopez affirms that Rockynats, and the event partnership with Rockhampton Regional Council, continues to go from strength to strength.
“Record entries and our biggest street parade means Rockynats is consistently the second-largest automotive festival in Australia after Summernats,” said Andy. “People from all around Australia continue to lock in Rockynats as a non-negotiable event on their calendar. That’s because they love the unique spirit of this amazing show and the welcome they receive from the Rockhampton community.”
“Rockynats is a fantastic partnership between Rockhampton Regional Council and the Summernats team, with huge support from QLD Police, local businesses and national commercial partners like Rare Spares and Repco. We can’t wait to get back here next year.”
Momentum is already building for the 2027 event, with Rockynats 07 officially slated to return to Rockhampton over the Easter school holidays from April 2-4.
For more information on Rockynats, visit www.rockynats.com.au
ROCKYNATS 06 DRAG RACING AWARD WINNERS
• Bike Winner | Nathaniel Lehr | 3014 Yamaha MT09
• Bike 2nd | Clifton Russell | 2006 Suzuki Hayabusa - 1300
• Street Winner (9.00+ Seconds) | Josh Kele | 1976 Holden Kingswood
• Street 2nd (9.00+ Seconds) | Justin Vaughn | 2015 Holden Commodore
• Super Street Winner (8.0 Second Class) | Mark Peachey | 1977 Chrysler Centura
• Super Street 2nd (8.0 Second Class) | Brad Smith | 1976 Holden HX Statesman
• Pro Street Winner (6.50 Second Class) | Ben Wood | 1994 Holden Commodore
• Pro Street 2nd (6.50 Second Class) | John Vesnaver | 1967 Holden HR
ROCKYNATS 06 BY THE NUMBERS:
• 1900 entrants
• 65,000 total attendees across the weekend
• 1379 street parade participants
• 400 Show N Shine entrants, with 200 cars on display each day
• 8 cars and 2 bikes unveiled at the Meguiars Elite Pavilion
• 60+ Mulletfest entrants ranging from 1 to 70 years old, and 24 Tattoo Competition entrants
Photos thanks to Fee Powell Photography
