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MORE THAN THE FIELD DAYS For more than 60 years, Elmore & District Machinery Field Days Inc has been a 100 per cent community-owned, independent not-for-profit organisation, working to create opportunities for the Elmore and district community. Established in 1964 by a group of local farmers, EFD began with a vision of connecting the agricultural industry with the latest machinery, technology and innovation. While the annual field days remain at the heart of the organisation, EFD has continued to grow and evolve well beyond its original event. Today, EFD owns and operates the Elmore Events Centre, Elmore Equestrian Park, Elmore Tractor Pull and Elmore Jet Boats, while also actively working to attract major events, competitions, rallies, festivals, trade shows and other activities to the region. From national horse events and caravan rallies to music festivals, product launches and training days, the organisation’s facilities provide a base for a diverse range of events throughout the year. 2 Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026
It is this willingness to think beyond the traditional field days and create new opportunities for the region that has ultimately paved the way for the Elmore Jet Boats project.
HOW IT ALL CAME ABOUT The idea of bringing championship jet boat racing back to Victoria began in mid-2024, when Elmore and District Field Days approached the Australian National Championship Jet Boat Association to explore the possibility of hosting sprint boat racing at Elmore for the first time in more than a decade. What followed was 12 months of feasibility studies, business research and strategic planning, with EFD and AFJSA working together to determine whether the ambitious project could become a reality. Once an agreement to proceed was reached, the next 14 months brought a new set of challenges, including complex operational requirements and significant weather setbacks. But through plenty of planning, persistence and collaboration, the project has finally come to fruition — with EFD proudly hosting the inaugural Elmore Jet Boats meet, which will also serve as round one of the Australian V8 Superboats Championship.
Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026 3
BURSONS SHEPPARTON
PROUDLY SUPPORTING LOCAL EVENTS 24 Benalla, Shepparton, Victoria 3630 SHEPPARTON
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E: shepparton@burson.com.au
PROUDLY EMPOWERING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY THROUGH EVENTS
THANK YOU!
to all AFJSA board members, committee and competitors for the faith support and encouragement that has been given to the Elmore Events Centre team in developing our track... we look forward to a long and strong relationship with all as Victoria’s premium Jet Sprint track.
PHONE NUMBERS Office (Mon-Fri): 03 5432 6176 Event On Call Number: 0401 615 266
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ELMORE JET BOATS
WHAT IS JET BOAT RACING? Jet boat racing is a high-speed form of motorsport where drivers race specially built boats through a tight, winding course — and they do it at incredible speeds. Unlike traditional boat racing, jet sprint boats don’t race across a straight stretch of water. Instead, drivers navigate a purposebuilt course filled with corners, hairpin turns and split sections, relying on precision, skill
6 Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026
and quick reactions to find the fastest way through. The boats are powered by powerful jet units that draw water from beneath the hull and force it out through a nozzle at the rear, providing the thrust that propels them around the track. They can reach speeds of more than 120km/h in just two seconds, while racing through water as little as two feet deep. With races often decided by fractions of a second, there is little room for error.
Drivers need to balance speed and precision, while their teams work behindthe-scenes to prepare and maintain the boats. The Australian V8 Superboats Championship brings together competitors across a number of classes, from developing drivers through to some of the country’s most experienced racers. Fast, technical and spectacular, jet boat racing is a sport best experienced from the edge of the track.
ELMORE JET BOATS
EAT, DRINK AND ENJOY
There’ll be plenty of options to keep you fuelled throughout the Elmore Jet Boats event, with a full range of food available on the day, including a BBQ, along with soft drinks and bottled water. For those looking to enjoy a drink while watching the action, a licensed bar will also be operating.
What’s on offer » Full range of food » BBQ » Soft drinks » Bottled water » Licensed bar
PLEASE NOTE
No BYO alcohol or drinks are permitted. Bags will be checked on entry. Come prepared to enjoy the racing, grab some food and drinks, and make a day of it at Elmore.
STALLS AND MERCHANDISE Trade stalls
Invaluable supporting sponsors will have a selection of trade stalls at the event, giving visitors the opportunity to browse, chat with businesses and see what they have on offer.
Merchandise
Elmore Jet Boats has partnered with Savage Force in Echuca to offer a full range of quality merchandise at the events. Savage Force has been a key supplier of quality merchandise to the Southern 80 for many years, and visitors can look forward to seeing the new Elmore Jet Boats designs created especially for the event. Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026 7
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THE TRACK
Get set for an exciting day of racing at the specially designed track in Elmore. Gates open at 8am, with a full day of racing running through until 5pm.
Drivers and teams will take a 45-minute lunch break during the day, giving visitors the chance to meet the teams and get up close with the action.
The Elmore Jet Boats team wishes everyone attending a spectacular day of racing.
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DRIVER PROFILE
BASTIAN MULLAN AGE: 23 FROM: Melton, Victoria BOAT: ASP CLASS: Group A YEARS RACING: 5 NUMBER OF RACES: 28 MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS: » 2025 LS Class World Championship » 2025/2026 Group A Australian Champion » 2024/2025 LS Class Australian Champion » 2023/2024 LS Class Australian Champion » 2022 LS Class Australian Champion » 2021 LS Class Australian Champion » 5x Australian Champion » 1x World Champion
How did you first get involved in jet boat racing? My Dad is Phonsy, who has been racing for quite some time. He is one of the GOATS of V8 superboat racing. So I followed in his footsteps. What is it about jet boat racing that keeps you coming back? The speed, and the pressure of racing. With only yourself on the track it creates a pressure and relief after the lap is finished that I can’t describe
10 Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026
What have been some of your biggest achievements, wins or milestones during your racing career? All of my Australian championships have been huge. I have won every championship I have entered since starting my career. I don’t think anyone in jetsprint racing can say that. I also won the 2025 UIM world championship alongside my Dad. This was something I will never forget. Do you have a favourite track you’ve raced at, and what makes it special? I think Cabarita was a great technical track that I loved to race at. It always had a special place in my heart. What is one race, moment or memory from your career that stands out above the rest? The last race was special. My Dad won the unlimited championship, I won the Group A championship and my brother won the LS championship. Who has had the biggest influence on you or your racing career? Easily my father Phonsy. Without him I would never be such a great driver and I definitely wouldn’t have a fast boat to drive!
What do you enjoy most about competing in your class? The competition in this class is more competitive than the LS class. Everyone in Group A is taking it seriously and wants to WIN. What are you most looking forward to about racing at the new Elmore Jet Boat track? Having a track back in my home state Victoria. I mean two out of the three current world champions are from Melton Victoria. What do you think the Elmore track and event will bring to jet boat racing in the region? It will bring more fans and new competitors to the sport which would be really exciting. For someone who has never seen jet boat racing before, what can they expect when they come to Elmore? Expect some close and fast racing. Some crashes and an amazing atmosphere.
ELMORE JET BOATS
Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026 11
DRIVER PROFILE
TYLER FINCH AGE: 31 FROM: Mildura, Victoria BOAT: Loose Cannon #32 CLASS: Unlimited YEARS RACING: First raced at the age of 16
in 2011, then returned to racing in 2021 (seven years in total) NUMBER OF RACES: Roughly 40 MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS: Second in the Australian Championship two seasons in a row, and competing at the 2025 World Championships in New Zealand. How did you first get involved in jet boat racing? I grew up around it. Dad (Dean) raced for years, so I was always around the sport, whether it was at the track or in the shed. What is it about jet boat racing that keeps you coming back? The adrenaline, the competition and the camaraderie within the sport. With the racing itself, there’s always something you can improve or change to try and find a bit more speed, and that’s what keeps it exciting. What have been some of your biggest achievements, wins or milestones during your racing career? Finishing second in the Australian Championship two seasons in a row, and competing at the 2025 World Championships in New Zealand. Do you have a favourite track you’ve raced at, and what makes it special? Wānaka, New Zealand. The track had a good flow to it, the scenery was unreal, and it was cool being our first international race event. What is one race, moment or memory from your career that stands out above the rest? Competing in the 2025 World Series in New Zealand. The whole crew made the trip over, 12 Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026
we all piled into a HiAce van with the boat on the back and travelled from Queenstown to Whanganui together. Pretty memorable trip. Who has had the biggest influence on you or your racing career? Dad. I grew up watching him race and have learnt a lot from him over the years. He’s got a lot of knowledge and experience in the sport, so he’s definitely been my biggest influence What do you enjoy most about competing in your class? The speed, the ingenuity and the competition. I enjoy the challenge of constantly developing the boat and finding ways to make it quicker. What are you most looking forward to about racing at the new Elmore Jet Boat track?
It’s another track that’s closer to home for us, so I’m looking forward to having more family and friends able to come along and support us. It’ll also be good to race in a new environment and see what the track is like. What do you think the Elmore track and event will bring to jet boat racing in the region? Hopefully it brings more exposure to the sport and gets some new people through the gates, while also giving long-time Victorian followers a track closer to them to come and watch. Having a track back in Victoria is great for the sport. For someone who has never seen jet boat racing before, what can they expect when they come to Elmore? Fast boats, big horsepower and plenty of action. It’s loud, quick and pretty wild to watch in person.
ELMORE JET BOATS
WHAT IT TAKES TO COMPETE With 27 years behind the wheel and more than 250 races under his belt, Darryl Hutton knows what it takes to compete at the highest level of jet sprinting. The two-time Australian Champion and 2006 International Champion shares an insight into the commitment, teamwork and passion that comes with being part of the sport. Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you first became involved in jet boat racing? Coming from NZ it is very common to have a jet boat for rivers and lakes. My friends were Jetsprinting so it rubbed off on me. So did River Marathon Racing that I competed in until moving to Oz in 2008 You’ve been involved in jetsprinting for many years — what is it about the sport that has kept you coming back? We have a great team that enjoy spending time together. Unfortunately, we live all around the country, so the racing is the reason we catch up with each other. Some days we go alright, other days we start having a beer early. What does it actually take to compete at this level, in terms of time, commitment, preparation and cost? You get out what you put in. Jet units are a black art that you are always trying to improve. To be competitive takes time in the shed checking and improving. Cost is four times what you ever tell anyone. No, it’s not bad, as we don’t have wheels, suspension, gearbox or brakes to maintain. What have been some of the biggest highlights and achievements of your racing career? Too many to remember and they are still happening.
Is there one race or moment from your years in the sport that stands out as particularly memorable? Crashing through two fences is pretty bloody hard to forget. As chair of the AFJSA, what does your role involve and what goes on behind-thescenes to make the championship and events happen? I get to work with a great team of people that really want the sport to grow, be enjoyable, competitive and put on a great show. What do you think makes the AFJSA and the jet boat racing community special? Camaraderie of the competitors. We only race the clock so no-one else can influence your success or bad day. What would you say to someone who is interested in getting involved in the sport, but doesn’t know where to start? Find someone to ask like us at the AFJSA. It’s a great husband and wife sport or with best friends double driving a boat.
How significant is the new Elmore track for the sport, and what are you hoping it will bring to the AFJSA, competitors and the wider community? Jet sprint tracks are normally built and run by die hard racers and their wife’s who had no idea what they were signing up for. To be in a partnership with a professional organisation like Elmore Events Centre that want to bring a new sport like ours to their area is the best thing for our organisation since the Keith Diesel Derby Show welcomed us to their showgrounds 10 years ago. Elmore is central to such a large population of people that we know need a dose of “methanol sucking monsters” into their veins. For me, getting a track back in Victoria after 15 years is like bringing it home. For someone coming to the Elmore event who has never experienced jet boat racing before, what can they expect? To be entertained. To see a boat accelerate from 10-130 km/h in two seconds and then take a 90 degree corner at that speed in a 5-6m channel. More g-forces in acceleration and cornering than Formula One. Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026 13
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CHAT: DEREK SHOTTON
FROM VISION TO REALITY What started as an introduction between Elmore & District Machinery Field Days Inc and the Australian National Championship Jet Boat Association in 2024 has grown into a permanent new chapter for the Elmore Events Centre. Executive manager Derek Shotton takes us back to where the idea began, the people who helped bring it to life and the moment he realised jet boat racing could become a reality at Elmore. When did the idea of bringing jet boat racing to Elmore first come about? The opportunity first came about in March 2024, when the local tourism manager in our shire suggested we meet with the AFJSA team to explore whether there were opportunities for EFD. How did EFD first become involved with AFJSA and the V8 Superboats? We met with a group of AFJSA representatives in April 2024 and were impressed by their vision and desire to bring V8 Superboats back to Victoria. Both Matt [Malthouse] and Justine [Roylance] were part of that original delegation, and I immediately sensed these were two people we could work with on such a challenging and ambitious project. What was it about Elmore and the Events Centre that made it such a good fit? Our knowledge and experience in running large events, combined with our in-house project skills to develop event spaces, made the Events Centre an excellent option. The site itself also offered plenty of space, existing amenities, parking and roadways, a reliable water source and a sustainable water reuse option after each race. 16 Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026
The close proximity to large potential audiences in Shepparton, Echuca, Bendigo and Melbourne’s northern suburbs was another major advantage. With the exception of Melbourne’s northern suburbs, which are around 90 minutes away, our targeted audiences are all within an hour of the site. There have been attempts to bring jet boat racing back to Victoria in the past. What made the Elmore opportunity different? The combination of all those factors, coupled with a can-do attitude from our committee, made the difference. Who were the key people involved in getting the idea off the ground? I have been very lucky to have the members of our Executive Management Committee provide such tremendous support in getting this project to fruition. What were some of the biggest challenges along the way? The large amount of time we lost due to the weather has been one of the biggest challenges. At what point did you realise the project was actually going to happen? Probably about seven months after our first meeting with AFJSA. My requests for in-kind support to build the track started coming back with much higher commitments of support than I dared to hope for. That saw the discussion change from,“How can we afford to do this?” to,“Hell, this is looking very achievable.” Ward Brothers of Rochester, Cornfoot Brothers of Somerton, Rich River Spray Irrigation, Hunter Irrigation and Coolabah Turf all made significant contributions to the success of this project.
What has the process of designing and developing the track been like? It was very easy for us at EFD. We probably caused a few think-tank sessions for AFJSA, who then came up with the map layout they felt would make a good track. The great team at 5D Surveying then developed all the files and GPS programming for the earthworks contractors. I know the timeframe and changing conditions caused Kristian Hill, Rob TollerBond and Will Hamilton at 5D some hard days, but again, it was another example of how the great companies involved in this project went above and beyond for the benefit of what I think will be a tremendous community asset. What does having jet boat racing at Elmore mean for the future of the sport in Victoria and the Elmore Events Centre? In my mind, it means a long and successful presence at their new home at Elmore. When you think back to that original conversation about bringing jet boats to Elmore, what does it mean to see the first event now becoming a reality? My stress levels have been high over the last few months, and my first feeling when asked this question is one of relief — but quickly followed by pride. I’m proud of our committee for having the foresight to support the project, proud that we have pulled it off, and proud to think we have put our community on the map yet again. The Elmore region does pretty well for a small community.
ELMORE JET BOATS
Executive manager Derek Shotton. Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026 17
ELMORE JET BOATS
MEET THE TEAMS Are you interested in meeting some of the drivers and navigators during the Elmore Jet Boats event? During the lunch break, which runs for around 45 minutes, spectators may have the chance to head into the pits and meet the people behind the boats. AFJSA secretary Tahlia Elphinstone said the teams loved doing pit walks and always tried to make them possible when the race schedule allowed. “It’s something we are aiming to have, 18 Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026
but it will be dependent on how the day is travelling time-wise,” she said. “A gold coin donation is all we ask, and spectators get a chance to meet our drivers, teams and officials. “A lot of our teams have stickers, posters and sell merch as well.” So, if you have a question, want to meet a driver or have a child who would love a photo with their favourite racer, head towards the pits during the lunchtime break and join in the fun — if the schedule allows.
ELMORE JET BOATS
JETSPRINT BOAT 101 Get to know the key components that make a jetsprint boat built for speed, power and precision on the water.
Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026 19
DRIVER PROFILE
JODIE SULCS (NEE COTTAM) AGE: 36 FROM: Gold Coast, Queensland BOAT: Steady Eddie, #199 CLASS: LS Class YEARS RACING: 3 years NUMBER OF RACES: 14 races MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS:
we aren’t just there making up the numbers any more. I can compete with these guys, and there is still plenty more in both me and Steady Eddie.
Rookie of the Season in her debut 2023/24 season; 3rd overall in LS Class in the 2025/26 season. How did you first get involved in jet boat racing? It really started thanks to Mike Hessell from Spartan. Without me knowing, Mike and Chris Edmonds helped my husband Adam buy a hull out of New Zealand. We spent countless hours getting the boat ready and installing the LS3, and before long Mike had talked Adam into having a go at racing. We went to our first club day with me sitting in as his navigator, and somehow I ended up being pushed into the driver’s seat. I absolutely did not want to do it — right up until I took off. That was it. The adrenaline, the speed and the feeling of driving one of these boats was completely unlike anything I’d experienced before. I’d obviously been missing a very expensive hobby from my life. Adam and I started out A and B driving, but it eventually became clear racing wasn’t really his thing — particularly once the speed started giving him motion sickness. Then I beat him at Keith during our first season, so I had the bragging rights anyway. From there, Steady Eddie pretty much became mine. What is it about jet boat racing that keeps you coming back? The adrenaline is a huge part of it. There is nothing quite like sitting on the start line, knowing you have to commit completely and then trying to put together the quickest, cleanest lap you possibly can. 20 Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026
But the people are probably what makes the sport really special. There is fierce competition on the water, but as soon as you’re back in the pits everyone is willing to help each other. I also love being one of the women out there racing against the boys. I don’t want to be treated differently — I want to push them, have them push me, and see how far we can all go. What have been some of your biggest achievements, wins or milestones during your racing career? Being named Rookie of the Season in my first season, 2023/24, was probably the first moment where I realised just how far I had come in such a short amount of time. Then finishing third overall in LS Class in the 2025/26 season was huge for me. LS is incredibly competitive, and we are a very small team. There are basically three of us doing everything and we are still constantly learning. To finish on the championship podium after three seasons of racing showed me that
Do you have a favourite track you’ve raced at, and what makes it special? Cabarita will probably always be special because it was our home track and it was the first place I ever drove a jet boat. Unfortunately, with the track now closed, that makes those memories mean even more. After that, I would probably say Griffith. Before I raced there everyone kept talking about how difficult and dangerous it was, so I went there expecting this terrifying place. Then I raced it and absolutely loved it. It’s a track that makes you concentrate and commit. You can’t switch off for a second, and I really enjoy that challenge. I came away wondering what everyone had been making such a fuss about. What is one race, moment or memory from your career that stands out above the rest? Getting onto the podium for the first time. I genuinely didn’t expect it to happen as quickly as it did. LS Class has some seriously talented drivers in it, and when I started racing I was just trying to learn, improve and stay competitive. Standing on that podium was probably the moment where I thought, okay, maybe I can actually do this. It gave me confidence and showed both me and everyone else that I was serious about racing. Who has had the biggest influence on you or your racing career? Jade from Disturburd was probably the first driver I really looked up to. She’s an incredible driver, but she’s also just a genuinely lovely person. When I started, I remember watching her and thinking that I
ELMORE JET BOATS
wanted to be able to drive like that. Since then, though, I’ve learnt something from almost everyone involved in V8 Superboats. There is so much experience across the paddock and people are incredibly generous with it. You can be competing directly against someone and 10 minutes later they’ll be helping you fix something so you can get back on the water. That’s a pretty special part of this sport. What do you enjoy most about competing in your class? The competition. LS Class is incredibly close, which means you can’t afford to switch off or settle for being comfortable. There are a lot of very quick drivers and everyone is constantly pushing each other to get better. At the same time, there is a huge amount of support between the teams. We all want to beat each other when we’re on the water, but we also want to see everyone make it to the start line and have a proper race. That’s the perfect combination for me.
There’s also something pretty special about being part of the first championship event at a brand-new track. Years from now we’ll all be able to say we were there for the very first one. What do you think the Elmore track and event will bring to jet boat racing in the region? I think it has the potential to be massive for the sport. Victoria hasn’t had V8 Superboat racing for a long time, so Elmore gives an entirely new audience the chance to experience it properly. And this isn’t really a sport that you can fully appreciate until you’ve seen it live. The noise, the speed, the spray, the atmosphere and watching a boat disappear into a corner at full commitment is something completely different. Hopefully people from Elmore and the surrounding towns come along out of curiosity, see how insane this sport actually is and become V8 Superboat fans.
That would be a fantastic result not only for Elmore, but for the future of jet boat racing in Australia. For someone who has never seen jet boat racing before, what can they expect when they come to Elmore? Nail-biting, breath-holding, edge-of-yourseat racing. It is loud, ridiculously fast and unpredictable. You’re watching V8-powered boats race through narrow channels of water where the difference between an incredible lap and getting it completely wrong can happen in a split second. And unlike a lot of motorsport, you’re incredibly close to the action. You can walk through the pits, see the boats and teams up close and then watch them absolutely send it around the track. If you’ve never seen V8 Superboats live before, Elmore is probably a pretty good place to start.
What are you most looking forward to about racing at the new Elmore Jet Boat track? The unknown. Elmore will be the first round of the new 2026/27 season, and a completely new track means nobody arrives with years of notes, experience or favourite rotations. We’re all seeing it, learning it and working it out together for the first time. That puts everyone on an even playing field, and I absolutely love that. There will be a lot of nerves, a lot of excitement and probably plenty of conversations in the pits about which way everyone thinks the track needs to be attacked. But once you’re strapped into the boat, it’s up to you and your navigator to figure it out. Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026 21
DRIVER PROFILE
MATT MALTHOUSE AGE: 58 FROM: Keith. SA BOAT: Nood Nutz 69 CLASS: LS YEARS RACING: Not enough NUMBER OF RACES: Have not kept count MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS:
1st place for an LS event in Keith; Best crash; Life membership for contribution to the sport. How did you get involved in Jet Boat racing? Around 1989 my brother and I built one of the first aluminium boats in Australia. We raced in Shepparton, Albury, Wodonga and Currency Creek. When I got married and had a family we gave up buying a home and built a mechanical workshop. Thirty plus years later we were enticed by a mate Glen Simpson into helping build the jet boat track in Keith and then we purchased a Stinger built boat from NZ. It took Sonya a long time to come around to agreeing to this. What is it about jet boat racing that keeps you coming back? The people involved, racing with our son Mitch as a B driver, the mateship and of course the adrenalin rush. What have been some of your biggest achievements, wins or milestones during your racing career? Having the opportunity to be a part of building the Keith track and having it recognised as the best in the world. Receiving a life membership award and being on the podium regularly when I remember the rotation. Do you have a favourite track you’ve raced at and what makes it special? Keith because it was a great time in my life building it. 22 Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026
What is one race, moment or memory from your career that stands out above the rest? Rolling our boat in Keith over the spit water signed bridge, repairing the boat and having our son Mitch end up on the podium beating me by milliseconds. Who has had the biggest influence on you or your racing career? Daryl Hutton (Hutto), as he is a month older than me, but a true gentleman to the sport. What do you enjoy most about competing in your class? Being able to get our set up right on the day and being reasonably quick for a couple of older blokes in a youngish class.
What are you most looking forward to about racing at the Elmore Jet Boat track? Being part of a new track in Elmore, Victoria. Helping and working with a great team at the event centre. What do you think the Elmore track and event will bring to jet boat racing in the region? It will once again put Elmore firmly on the map with superheats returning to Victoria and potentially the world stage. For someone who has never seen jet boat racing before what can they expect when they come to Elmore? They will be up close to some super serious horse power in a 500kg tinny cracking in excess of 120km in a 7m wide purpose built track.
CHAT: TAHLIA ELPHINSTON
RACING ON WATER As AFJSA secretary and a member of the V8 Superboats family since 2017, Tahlia Elphinstone knows what makes the sport so special. Here, she shares what goes on behind the scenes and what makes racing on water so exciting. For someone completely new to the sport, how would you explain Australian V8 Superboats and what makes it different from other forms of motorsport? We are motorsport on water — fast, loud and incredibly exciting! Our tracks are purpose-built for our boats, and our drivers and navigators race against the clock through a tight, twisting course of channels, navigating a set rotational sequence at incredibly fast speeds. It’s incredible how close our spectators get to be to our track, you can literally feel a boat fly past and as you watch these skilled drivers navigate the tight corners and change directions unbelievably quickly, there is just such little room for error. That electric feeling watching them, combined with the sheer horsepower of these engines, the atmosphere of the spectators, it’s just everything I love about motorsport with a touch of unpredictability of racing on water. How has the Australian V8 Superboats Championship evolved over the years, and what do you think has been the biggest change in the sport? The sport has evolved enormously over the years. The boats are faster, the technology and engineering have become more sophisticated, and the level of competition continues to rise. At the same time, the championship itself has become much more professional in the way we present and promote the sport. For me, one of the biggest changes has been the accessibility and visibility of the V8 Superboats. Between
television, social media and our digital coverage, we now have so many more opportunities to take people behind the scenes, introduce them to our teams and drivers, and showcase what makes the sport so incredibly unique. What I love, though, is that despite all that growth, our sport has managed to retain its grassroots; it has a real family feel. There are generations of families involved in the sport, huge amounts of work happening behind the scenes, and a genuine sense of community. I think maintaining that, while continuing to grow and professionalise it, is something really special. What are some of the things people might not realise about what goes into running a championship — from the AFJSA, officials and volunteers to the teams themselves? I think people would be surprised by just how much work happens behind the scenes to get a championship round to a race weekend. For the AFJSA, there are months of planning that go into a single season, with future seasons and world championships being planned simultaneously — co-ordinating with venues, officials, competitors and sponsors, managing entries and changes in race-day schedules, promoting events and making sure everything is in place to deliver a safe, professional and really exciting championship. Then you arrive at a race weekend and there is an incredible group of people working behind the scenes. Our officials and volunteers give up their time to keep events running safely and smoothly, often doing jobs that spectators would never even know
are happening. We simply couldn’t go racing without them. And then there are the teams themselves. What spectators see is a boat on the water for less than a minute at a time, but behind that run is countless hours in the shed, travelling huge distances around the country, maintaining and repairing boats, finding sponsors and, quite often, entire families pitching in to make it happen and attending these race weekends supporting (and feeding) our teams before, after and during qualifying and elimination rounds. That’s probably one of my favourite things about the V8 Superboats — when you see a boat cross the finish line, you’re really seeing the work of whole community behind it. It takes a huge number of people who genuinely love this sport to make a championship happen, and to be part of that community makes me incredibly proud. How excited are you to see the championship finally kick off at Elmore, and what are you most looking forward to about the event? We are incredibly excited to kick off the new championship at Elmore! There has been so much work happening behind the scenes to get to this point, so there will be a real sense of pride and excitement for both the Elmore team and the AFJSA when that first boat hits the water. Elmore is particularly special because it’s a brand new venue for us and marks the return of V8 Superboats to Victoria. It gives us an opportunity to re-introduce the sport to a whole new crowd, and I honestly can’t wait to see people experience it for the first time. Elmore Jet Boat Race 2026 23
SAFETY FIRST Safety is a priority at the Elmore Jet Boats event, with four safety bunkers positioned around the track.
Important information for spectators
Each bunker is staffed by a minimum of five trained safety personnel and equipped with foam fire extinguishers and the required safety equipment and protocols.
» By purchasing a ticket and attending the event, ticket holders acknowledge that motor racing carries inherent risks and the promoters, clubs, corporations and individuals organising the event accept no liability except where required by law or where due care and skill have not been exercised.
» Boat racing is an exciting sport, but it is also dangerous, and accidents can happen. » Every effort is made to protect competitors, spectators and the general public; however, there remains a risk of injury, death or property damage.
» For everyone’s safety, children and patrons must not climb on, lean over or interfere with safety fences or barriers. » Please follow all directions from event officials and safety personnel while enjoying the racing.