Motorsport Australia Speed Read - July 2021

SPEED READ J U L Y

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MOTORKHANA THE FLAVOUR OF JUNE

Amongst a strong line up grassroots events during the middle-month of '21, it was the state motorkhanas who boasted some of the biggest battles, despite being the smallest playing fields.

ONLINE OFFICIALS TRAINING TIMED TO PERFECTION The ongoing training and development of Motorsport Australia officials is continuing through the ongoing pandemic.

JULY UPCOMING STATE EVENTS Check out the upcoming club and state events happening all around the country in July.

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

TOBY’S TIME IN FINKE After three failed attempts, Toby Price finally made history last month, becoming the first person to win the Tatts Finke Desert Race on both a bike and in a car.

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CONTENTS 4

What's on in July?

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Webb on top in WA State Speed Series

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Victorian club fund enters third and final stage

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Amos edges Tighe in hill climb thriller

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Queensland Clubs receive funding support

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Australians appointed to senior FIA judicial roles

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Online officials training timed to perfection

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Large junior showing at Tasmanian motorkhana

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Stars come out to play in NSW masterclass motorkhana

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HSRCA enjoys huge weekend out at Sydney Motorsport Park

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Loveday ready for AORC party

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Toby’s time in Finke

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A change in Sporting Regulations for AORC

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Ultimate motorsport prize up for grabs

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Superlicence points tweaks confirmed

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Motorsport celebrates Queen's Birthday honours

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Annual Report available online

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Van Gisbergen shines in sizzling Darwin

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Motorsport Australia App available for download

COVER PHOTO

The Motorsport Australia Tasmanian Motorkhana Championship’s second round of the season took place last month with a huge number of juniors featuring in the round.

Photo: Craig Large

275 Canterbury Road, Canterbury VIC 3126 PO Box 172, Canterbury LPO Vic 3126 Member Hotline 1800 883 959 (9am - 5pm AEST) Telephone 1300 883 959 or +61 3 9593 7777 Website motorsport.org.au

E-mail info@motorsport.org.au

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JULY? WHAT'S ON IN Events in many states may be postponed or cancelled due the current COVID-19 restrictions.

NEW SOUTH WALES AND ACT

Photo: Edge Photographics QLD: NTI Townsville 500, 9-11 July The Repco Supercars Championship is heating up with Shane van Gisbergen still the driver to beat and will be full of confidence after winning two races on the street circuit last year.

QUEENSLAND

2-4 July: 2021 Historic Queensland 3 July: FNQ R4 Bitumen Khanacross 3 July: FNQ R6 Bitumen Khanacross 3-4 July: Markwell Demolitions 216 4 July: IWMAC - Novice Driver Training and Come and Try Day 9-11 July: NTI Townsville 500 10 July: National Owners Meeting 10-11 July: CQ Crane Hire Gold Rush Hill Sprint 11 July: National Owners Meeting 11 July: MAC Dirt Sprint R4 11 July: R7 2021 Club Championship 17-18 July: Classic Car Show 17 July: KCF Rallysport Short Course Benarkin 17 July: Shannons PCQ Sprint Championship R5 17-18 July: R4 HBMSA Khanacross 2021 18 July: R3 Motorkhana/Khanacross Series 18 July: Open Sprint R4 24-25 July: Chepa Auto Spares 2021 Sprint R4 24-25 July: Mt Cotton Hillclimb R4 24-25 July: CCCC Bitumen Khanacross and Motorkhana Series R3/4 24-25 July: Rd 3 FNQ NQK Series Khanacross 25 July: Mount Stuart Hillclimb Series R3

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MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

3 July: 2021 National Patios ACT Khanacross Series R3 3 July: Driver Training and Supersprint Competition R5 2021 3 July: Night Skidpan Motorkhana 3 July: PCNSW Tony McKnight Motorkhana Championship 2021 R3 4 July: AWDCC Horizontal Hillclimb 4 July: July State Motorkhana 4 July: Independence Day Khanacross 4 July: 2021 G K Denney Tyres Lap Dash R2 4 July: MSCC Inc. Come and Try Motorkhana 10-11 July: Mantic Clutch NSW State Hillclimb 11-13 July: 20th HD/HR Holden Nationals 11 July: July State Khanacross 11 July: Coffs Coast Khanacross. R1 2021 11 July: King/Reilly Khanacross 11 July: New England Sporting Car Club Khanacross #3 17 July: 2021 R5 - Porsche Club NSW Inc Supersprint Championship 17 July: R4 CSCA Supersprint Series 2021 17 July: AMH Rally of the Bay 2021 18 July: 2021 Zestino Tires NSW Supersprint Championship R4 18 July: Impreza WRX Club Motorkhana Championship R4 18 July: Powersports Multi-Club Khanacross 24 July: SORRA Khanacross R1 25 July: July Come and Try Motorkhana 25 July: Mini Car Club of NSW Nirimba State Championship Motorkhana 25 July: GSCC Hillclimb Series R4

Photo: Roy Meronen NSW: AMH Rally of the Bay 2021, 17 July One of the biggest state rally events on the calendar, the Motorsport Australia NSW Rally Championship round will see competitors from all around the country take on eight stages in Batemans Bay.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA AND NORTHERN TERRITORY

3-4 July: R2 Hi-Tech Oils Drift All Stars 4 July: Superkart Race Meeting including Regularity 4 July: EPAC Khanacross and Come and Try Event 4 July: SCCSA 2021 Winter Cup 3 9-12 July: [NT] 2021 Triple Crown Drift Invitational 10-11 July: 2021 PMD Race Products Forest Sprint 11 July: Motorsport Australia SA Motorkhana Championship R4 18 July: SCCSA 2021 Collingrove Challenge 3 23-25 July: THE Can-Am Loveday 400 25 July: [NT] Alice City Tyrepower Khanacross

TASMANIA

4 July: The Tasmanian Hillclimb Championship 2021 10-11 July: Autocraft Baskerville 1000 18 July: MG Car Club of Tasmania, Tasmanian Motorkhana Championship R3 24 July: MSCT Gravel Hillclimb and Introductory Rallysprint

Photo: Central Australian Rally Sports Club NT: Alice City Tyrepower Khanacross, 25 July The Central Australian Rally Sports Club returns to action this month after their June khanacross was cancelled. All spectators can watch for free as drivers complete a number of a challenging tests.

VICTORIA

3 July: Come and Try Day 3 July: Khanacross and Motorkhana Avalon 3 July: Impreza WRX Club R3 Motorsport 3-4 July: Come and Try Days Shepparton Cup Challenge R2 4 July: FFCC/TCCA Independence Day Group5 R5 Motorkhana 4 July: AROCA Phillip Island Sprints 10 July: 2021 Motorsport Australia Victorian Motorkhana Championship R6 10 July: Driver Dynamics High Performance Track Days 10 July: Madcc R4 (VCAS R6) 11 July: MSCA Super Sprint 17 July: Victorian Motorkhana Championship R5 17-18 July: 2021 Trydel EZIUP&GO Victorian Hillclimb Championship R5 17 July: BMWDCM Broadford Come and Try Day 2021 18 July: Sandown Winter Sprint 18 July: GCC Multiclub Hillclimb 18 July: Kyneton Car Club Autocross Championship R5 23-25 July: Victorian Circuit Racing Championship R4 25 July: FFCC/TCCA Theo Wintels Memorial Motorkhana Group5 R6 26 July: Eastside Cruisers Skid Pan Day

Photo: SA Motorkhana SA: Motorsport Australia SA Motorkhana Championship R4, 11 July The state motorkhana championship is close to its climax as the penultimate round of the 2021 season. Reigning champion Tony Wallis will be hoping to secure yet another victory after the previous two wins.

Photo: Autocraft Baskerville 1000

TAS: Autocraft Baskerville 1000, 10-11 July The mother of all grassroots events in Tasmania, the Autocraft Baskerville 1000 gives first time competitors an opportunity to participate in motorsport at the state's famous circuit.

Photo: Ararat Car Club VIC: 2021 Trydel EZIUP&GO Victorian Hillclimb Championship R5, 17-18 July The Ararat Car Club will have another attempt at hosting one of the most competitive state championships in Australia with competitors to take on the picturesque One Tree Hill Lookout course.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Photo: Dakar Press Team Australia WA: 2021 Make Tracks WA ARB Bencubbin Enduro, 10-11 July The third round of the Motorsport Australia WA Off Road Championship will see 26 crews battle it out over a six gruelling hours on the 68km desert course in Bencubbin.

4 July: Bormsa Autocross 4 July: WASCC July Torque Trophy Race Meeting 10-11 July: 2021 Make Tracks WA ARB Bencubbin Enduro 10-11 July: Collie Motorplex Sprint 11 July: Autocross R3 11 July: WRX Club Driver - Jacks Hillclimb 18 July: State Motorkhana R3 24 July: Grimwade Stages

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 5

Photo: SES

WEBB ON TOP IN WA STATE SPEED SERIES John Webb has made a crucial step forwards towards securing the Motorsport Australia Western Australia State Speed Series title after a double round victory last month.

Machines Association’s Windfarm Hillclimb and right from the get-go, Webb proved too strong for the competition, posting the fastest time in all three of runs.

Only until his penultimate run did Ferrari go sub 50 seconds, before recording a decent 49.01 second run on his final attempt to secure second place two and half seconds faster Luke Prior.

With the series’ fifth and sixth round of the season just one of many events to feature as part of Albany’s annual festival of motorsport, a huge field of 44 competitors took part in the double-round weekend.

On just his second official run of the day, Webb posted a time of 47.66 seconds, more than three seconds faster than the next best in Ray Ferrari.

His final run saw him shave a further three-tenths of his time before calling it a day to prepare for the second round.

In the weekend’s second round, competitors took on the Pendeen Sprint and once again Webb was at the top of the time sheets, with Prior finishing the event in second place ahead of Adrian Hornsey.

The first of two rounds saw competitors run in the Great Southern Street

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Producing runs under one minute on every attempt and the only driver to

Photos: SES

“We had a great turnout... and it was one of the best weekends on our calendar” - Phil Morley

do so, Webb cruised to a comfortable victory – his final time of 56.14 just shy of four seconds faster than Prior – who came to within one tenth of breaking the one minute barrier.

Speaking after the double round, series organiser Phil Morley was thrilled with the event.

“We had a great turnout of 44 entries and it was one of the best weekends on our calendar,” Morley said.

“It’s also an opportunity to have a big social catch-up while the Round the Houses events run on the Sunday.

“Albany really turned on the weather and it was sunny for both the hill climb and sprint.

The series heads to Collie Motorplex for another double round on 10-11 July.

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VICTORIAN CLUB FUND ENTERS THIRD AND FINAL STAGE Motorsport Australia affiliated clubs in Victoria wanting to receive financial support through the Victorian State Government’s Community Motorsport Program can now do so with the third round of grants currently open.

Aimed at assisting grassroot motorsport clubs in producing better facilities, equipment and training opportunities, more than $2.1 million was handed out during the first round of the program, with 11 clubs receiving special funding during the first round.

For the second round of the program, up to $20,000 was available per club through four streams of funding opportunity, which will help clubs improve in areas to help increase membership and participation.

The four available streams of funding for which clubs can apply for are Safety and Operational Equipment, Volunteer and Official Training, Women and Girls Participation and Events and Activities.

The largest grants available are for Events and Activities with $20,000 on offer to successful applicants, while clubs wanting to purchase or repair Safety and Operational Equipment can get a $10,000 boost for an approve application.

Clubs wanting to invest in Volunteer and Official Training or Women and Girls Participation can receive up to $5000 if successful.

For the third stream, all the same financial options will be available with interested applicants able to apply for multiple streams.

The third round of the funding program will close on 22 December and the notification of outcomes will be in February 2022.

The 129 clubs who applied for round two funding are expected to be notified of the outcome by September.

“We’re very grateful to the program and very pleased to receive the funding” - Phil Craig, Victorian Fire and Rescue Squad, Chief Fire Marshal

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One of the clubs to receive funding in round one was the Victorian Fire and Rescue Squad and its Chief Fire Marshal, Phil Craig was highly supportive of the program.

“We’re very grateful to the program and very pleased to receive the funding,” Craig said.

“It’s difficult to fundraise and replace very expensive rescue equipment and because of the funding, we now have state of the art equipment that can support safety at the Motorsport Australia events we attend.

“The application process was relativity straightforward and I really recommend It to any of the clubs out there that have a program.”

Victorian clubs can contact Motorsport Australia’s Regional Development Executive for Vic and Tasmania, Daniel Gorgievski, for further information on the Community Motorsport Program email vic@motorsport. org.au to find out more.

Click here for more information Community Motorsport Program.

Photo: Revved Photography

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A P P A R E L

S p e c i a l i s t s i n u n i forms for co rpo rate s, car clubs, racing te ams and e - s p or ts. We su ppl y a wi de range of ce rtifi e d appare l including: -

Pol o s L i g h t wei gh t /a l l wea t h er j ackets Pan ts /s hort s Ho od i e s/ mi d l ayer tops Me rc ha n di se a n d a ccessories

Wh o l e s a l e ava i l a bl e!

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AMOS EDGES TIGHE IN HILL CLIMB THRILLER

Photos: Tyler Bowen

There was plenty of hype surrounding the latest round of the Mantic Clutch Motorsport Australia NSW Hill Climb Championship – especially when it came to the two title contenders.

In terms of raw pace, New South Wales based Dean Amos and Queenslander Dean Tighe have stepped up to another level in recent times– as has their rivalry.

Last month’s fifth round in Grafton once again pitted the duo against each other and as Tighe was hopeful of spoiling’s Amos' recent purple patch over him, it wasn't to be as Amos was too fast once again.

As Amos has in many of his recent victories, the 2021 Motorsport Australia Queensland Hill climb Champion

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Photos: Tyler Bowen

once again started off strongest, posting a super quick 41.60 second run up the course.

And not one driver could top Amos’ first run of the day or any of his remaining three – not even Tighe who unfortunately had to miss the first two runs.

Two impressive runs saw Tighe comfortably seal second place though – three seconds faster than Formula Libre competitor Ronald Hay. With another open wheeler in Dave Morrow securing fourth place a further second off, the highest ranked tin top vehicle was Greg Boyle – the 1989 Nissan GTR driver placing a highly respectable fifth

place, just two seconds off the 1986 Suzuki Krygger of Morrow.

Other notable results saw the fastest woman of the day in Karen Wilson steer her 2018 Ford Focus RS to a class podium, while teenager Cameron Brown was the quickest junior in the field with the 31st fastest outright time in his 2000 Nissan Pulsar.

Click here for more info about the Mantic Clutch Motorsport Australia NSW Hill Climb Championship.

With just four rounds to go in the championship, Tighe and Amos are now level on points, while Ron Hay is third a further 16 points off.

The next round of the championship takes place this month at Oakburn Park on 11 July.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 11

Mazda MX-5 Club Queensland

QUEENSLAND CLUBS RECEIVE FUNDING SUPPORT Seven Motorsport Australia affiliated Queensland clubs have received special funding as part of the second round of the State Government’s COVID SAFE Active Clubs Kickstart program.

“It’s always good to get assistance every so often and with the rain that we have had recently, there has been major problems with our khanacross course due to flooding,” club grant officer Shane North said.

The program, which is aimed at supporting non-for-profit grassroots sport and recreation organisations’ continued delivery of sporting opportunities, offered up to $2,000 for each successful application.

“The funding has been pretty vital to be honest. There has been a lot of damage done to the track as of late and it will be put towards cleaning the drains out, which will help stop the track from getting flooded.

“The reason behind our applications is because our club runs six chapters in Queensland, and we wanted to purchase first aid kits and radios that our chapter leaders can use when they are taking members on one of the many Sunday drives.

There were four categories for which the clubs could apply for, including education and training, resources and equipment, operation expenses and COVID related expenses.

“We have had to cancel a lot of events this year due to the flooding and while the drain cleaning won’t fix everything, it will go a long way in a long-term solution.

“We’re very happy because we don’t have to pay for them from the club fund. The amount that we got is exactly what we need.

It worked out very well.”

One of the recipients in the Douglas Shire Motorsport Club used the funding for much needed track maintenance after extreme rainfall in the previous six months had made it difficult for them to run events.

“Every little bit helps and we’re very thankful to the State Government for giving us this opportunity.”

The Mazda MX-5 Club Queensland was another club selected for the grant, whose application was in the resources and equipment category.

While their project was not as critical as the Douglas Shire Motor Sports Association’s, the money still helped them purchase first aid kits and communications equipment, which will assist with the club’s social Sunday runs amongst their six chapters.

The club’s general secretary Peter Franklin was grateful the club’s efforts in applying proved to be successful.

Douglas Shire Motorsport Club

“I think it’s great that the clubs are given the opportunity to get some financial assistance, as well as the government helping all types of sport and not just field sports,” Franklin said.

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“We were very surprised to get funding honestly, I put the application on a whim and we got it. It was a very easy process and we are very grateful to the Government for their support.

THE SEVEN CLUBS TO RECEIVE ROUND TWO FUNDING Douglas Shire Motor Sports Association Inc. Mazda MX-5 Club Of Qld Inc. Millmerran Auto Club Inc. Noosa Beach Classic Car Club Inc. Queensland Motor Racing Officials Association (Inc) Sunshine Coast Motor Sport Club Inc. Whitsunday Sporting Car Club Association Incorporated

Click here for more information on the Queensland Government’s COVID SAFE Active Clubs Kickstart program.

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AUSTRALIANS APPOINTED TO SENIOR FIA JUDICIAL ROLES

The new FIA Formula One Cost Cap Committee will be responsible for regulating the rules which limit costs incurred by F1 teams.

“It is a genuine honour to be 2021 SHANNONS selected to MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA serve on an CHAMPIONSHIPS international CALENDAR body like this”

Motorsport Australia President Andrew Fraser congratulated both Justice Davis and Justice Sofronoff on their appointments.

Round 2 Bathurst 6 Hour, New South Wales, 2-4 April

Justice Davis has also had a long and successful career as a Queen’s Counsel and is now a Justice of the Supreme Court of Queensland and President of the Queensland Industrial Court. He is a long-time follower of motorsport and in particular Formula One. The FIA Anti-Doping Commission was established to give effect to the Code of the World Anti-Doping Agency.

Justice Peter Davis

The world governing body for motorsport, the Federation Internationale d’la Automoblie (FIA), based in Paris, has announced the appointment of two highly-qualified and respected Australian jurists to its international judicial system.

The Honourable Justice Walter Sofronoff has been appointed to the FIA Anti-Doping Commission and The Honourable Justice Peter Davis has been appointed to the newly-instituted FIA Formula One Cost Cap Committee.

Justice Sofronoff has a long and esteemed career in law as a Queen’s Counsel and is now President of the Court of Appeal in Queensland. He has a keen interest in motorsport and cars in general, and served on the Board of Rally Australia from 2008 to 2010.

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Round 1 Phillip Island, Victoria, 2021 TBC* -February Justice Walter Sofronoff

“Motorsport Australia is proud to see such eminent Australian jurists appointed to senior judicial roles within the FIA. Their respective depths of experience will, I am sure, serve the sport extremely well,” Fraser said.

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

Justice Sofronoff added: “It is a genuine honour to be selected to serve on an international body like this.”

Round 5 Sandown International Raceway, Victoria, 10-12 September

While Justice Davis said “I feel very privileged to become a part of Formula 1”

Round 6 The Bend Motorsport Park, South Australia, 15-17 October

The two committees will preside Photos: Speed Shots Photography over hearings in Paris.

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Round 4 Morgan Park, Queensland, 25-27 June

Justice Walter Sofronoff

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 37

Photo: Revved Photography

ONLINE OFFICIALS TRAINING TIMED TO PERFECTION The ongoing training and development of Motorsport Australia officials is continuing through the ongoing pandemic, with an innovative and new online national training session taking place over Zoom last month.

With the current COVID-19 environment making it difficult for individuals to travel around the country to host the appropriate theory classes required for bronze level status or above, the success of the first online class has forged a pathway towards a more accessible future.

Run by Gold-level Timekeeping official Lucy Hatton, the Zoom training session gave the 18 participants an opportunity to complete the vital theory section of the curriculum and help them get closer to receiving

bronze time keeping status – all from the comfort of their own home.

Usually, run as a single face-to-face four-hour session, the online theory course ran as two two-hour sessions instead and covered the same content as the normal face-to-face sessions.

Some of the topics in the training included what it meant to be part of the timing team, calculations, logistics, integrity surrounding results and all the things a timekeeper would need to know for an event.

Following on from the positive feedback gained from the class, Hatton believed that Zoom online courses were the future of training as it allowed more flexibility for officials.

“I really enjoyed it and I think it was very beneficial to all the officials who took part in it,” Hatton said.

“It was very beneficial to all the officials who took part”

“It’s definitely something to work on in the future. Being able to do training across states will help the consistency of all different roles, meaning that instead of getting different messages by different presenters, the officials will all be trained the exact same way and with the same thought.

- Lucy Hatton, Gold-level Timekeeping official

“As far as timekeeping is concerned, it’s a role where there are far less volunteers required compared to other positions and the courses

are few and far between – officials can’t necessarily receive developments they need – this changes that now.

“It was really nice because participants had plenty of motorsport experience and it was great to have them share information and give insights into their work at different events. It ranged from club level motorkhana to rally, hill climbs to national circuit racing.

“These opportunities show the diversity of our presenters and how the training material can be delivered in different formats under one common message.”

The 18 participants from NSW, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, ACT and NT will now complete the second half of the training session shortly, which will be a practical experience before undergoing an assessment to receive their bronze timekeeping status.

Click here for more information on Officials training.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 15

LARGE JUNIOR SHOWING AT TASMANIAN MOTORKHANA The Motorsport Australia Tasmanian Motorkhana Championship’s second round of the season took place last month with a huge number of juniors featuring in the round.

With 29 competitors contesting the Symmons Plains event, 12 of the club’s junior members managed to get behind the wheel and continue their development in motorsport with a number of impressive performances.

In typical Tasmanian fashion, the weather played a major role in the event as freezing conditions and wet weather wreaked havoc on the competitors as they completed five tests.

It turned out to be a tight battle for outright honours

as just three seconds separated the top four drivers – the victory ultimately going to Stephen Turner in the Mitsubishi Mirage.

The win didn’t come easy for the reigning state champion as he trailed junior graduate Nathan Russell for the whole event, until a dramatic final test saw Turner go one second faster and claim the round by less than half a second.

Tight battles seemed the theme of the event as just four tenths proved the difference in the fight for the final spot of the podium, - that honour going to Lyndon Kettle over Christopher Russell, while Stefan Lendvay took out fifth place from Timothy Craggs by under half a second.

Photo: Craig Large

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Photos: Craig Large

In ninth position outright, James Large was the fastest of the juniors, the Mirage driver beating the next best junior in Cameron Howie by three seconds.

Rounding out the podium for the junior drivers was Kate Figgel, who beat her mother Kelly by just one tenth of a second. The Figgels finished second and third respectively in the Ladies class as Kelli Large finished ahead of them in eighth place.

With three juniors in the top half of the competition, event organiser Damien Midgley was proud of all the work the youngsters were putting into their development.

these events and getting more experience, there is no doubt they will continue to grow and improve.

“Only have to look as far as Nathan (Russell) who was so close to taking out the round. He is definitely a driver who will do great things in the years to come.

“All in all, a brilliant day despite the freezing temperatures and rainy second half. A true testament to the dedication of all our competitors and officials.”

“It’s fantastic to see so many juniors competing in these rounds” - Damien Midgley

“It’s fantastic to see so many juniors competing in these rounds, and to have some of them up towards the top 10 too is just great,” Midgley said.

“It goes to show that many of them are on the right path and that if they keep coming to MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 17

STARS COME OUT TO PLAY IN NSW MASTERCLASS MOTORKHANA Last month saw some of New South Wales’ finest motorkhana competitors take on the fifth round of the Motorsport Australia New South Wales Motorkhana Championship in Nirimba.

Hosted by the Thornleigh Car Club, the event had two competitions running simultaneously across the weekend with 21 drivers contesting the state championship round and a further 13 competing in a separate multiclub event.

With the national Motorsport Australia Motorkhana Championship just months away, the event gave some of the country’s biggest names another opportunity to get valuable time behind the wheel, with the likes of Corinne East-Johnston, Aaron Wuillemin and Phil East all in attendance.

The state round saw each competitor get two runs of 12 tests and while the 2019 national champion in Wuillemin did his best to beat East-Johnston on those tests, he was no match for her as she won 10 of the 12, including a seven-test winning streak which helped her seal a four second victory.

East eventually rounded out the podium a further 20 seconds behind Wuillemin, beating

the fourth placed Lauren EastWuillemin by a comfortable 17 seconds in the process.

While there was a big difference between the front four, not much separated the next few drivers as Daryl Elliott edged out Brett Manewell for fifth place, however Manewell didn’t leave empty handed as he was the best of the sedans and steered his Mazda MX5 to a class victory.

Other standout results from the state championship saw Dave Masing secure a Class C victory the Mitsubishi Lancer driver falling less than two seconds short of

“It was a fantastic event from all perspectives” - Nicole Crowley, Event Organiser

Photo: Chris Warwick

Christopher Stevens for a seventhplace finish. A further two seconds behind Masing was another C class competitor in John Driver.

Not far below the entertaining battle for seventh place was Michael Batt, who enjoyed a clean run with his Holden to Class D honours, while Grant Anderson fought off Lacey EastWuillemin to a 12th place finish – the Subaru Impreza driver picking up a class win in the process. East-Wuillemin didn’t leave the event empty handed as she was the fastest outright junior.

For the multi club event, the 13 competitors got one run of 24 18

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Photo: Chris Warwick

Photo: Chris Warwick

Photo: Chris Warwick

Photo: Nicole Crowley

different tests as Lawrence Demasi comfortably steered his Toyota 86 to an outright victory over junior winner Chloe O’Hara, who just weeks ago passed her Ls. Another junior in Jamie Albornoz finished the event in third.

Thornleigh Car Club also held a special trophy competition in honour of the late Ernie Boston, who organised the club’s motorkhanas for many decades before passing away due to complications to his Parkinson’s disease.

The event was run in the way that the club’s “King of Motorkhana” believed it should be run with

Photo: Lawrence Demasi

Photo: Nicole Crowley

Photo: Nicole Crowley

no reverse tests and every test tweaked or completely made up for maximum competitor enjoyment.

“It was a fantastic event from all perspectives,” event organiser Nicole Crowley said.

The Ernie Boston trophy went to the fastest Thornleigh Car Club member over the 11 separate tests between state and multiclub competition and was won by Manewell.

“The state competitors really enjoyed having the reversing test included to give them practice for the national motorkhana.

With junior participation a major focus for the club, up to a third of the state championship’s field were junior drivers, while more than a half of the multiclub field were underage.

“Aaron Wuillemin in particular was highly thankful that we added a reversing test because these competitors get very little to no practice with reversing tests in the lead up to their national event.”

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 19

HSRCA ENJOYS HUGE WEEKEND OUT AT SYDNEY MOTORSPORT PARK The Historic Sports and Racing Car Association’s (HSRCA) strong 2021 continued in June as more than 170 competitors featured in the club’s Sydney Classic.

Taking place at Sydney Motorsport Park, 12 categories across eight jam packed grids took to the track and provided classic car enthusiasts with an impressive array of entertainment.

With all categories getting a decent amount of track time across the weekend, there was no shortage of drama, however many of the categories saw just one competitor enjoy any success with a number of clean sweeps.

The most notable perfect weekend came in the form of the Group S cars, which had a huge field of 39 competitors. Although there were many entrants, it was just one who stole the show - Wayne Seabrook.

The 1976 Porsche Carrera driver proved too good throughout the category’s three races, winning each one by seven seconds or more.

Seabrook joined a number of other standout performers from the weekend, including Group N winner Tilley Bradley, outright Group MO & Group P winner Sean Whelan, Supersprint and 5 Litre winner Richard Carter and QR Sports Racing victor Joshua Kean, the latter beating sports class winner Thomas Tweedie in each race.

In the combined Group A and C category, Anthony Alford took outright honours after winning every race, while Terry Lawlor took

out all C class races – his best result coming in the first feature race where he was just six tenths short of an outright podium.

In the Formula Vee and Group L field, nothing could separate Mathew Pearce and Stephen Normoyle all weekend, with both drivers notching up two wins each.

However at the end of the event, Pearce enjoyed bragging rights after he finished second twice to Normoyle's once – the crucial result coming in the final race where just seven tenths of second and Anthony Paynter separated the duo.

There were multiple winners in Formula Ford as William Lowing crossed the finish line first on two occasions, while Wayne Cooper and Bruce Connelly also grabbed race wins.

David Ellis was victorious in the epic Regularity battle after winning two of the four sessions, his closest rivals being Bruce Melville and Craig Anderson.

The event also paid tribute to Ron Tauranac through a special parade featuring 15 Brabham vehicles, including the BT-17 sports car and Jack Brabham’s 1966 F1 winning car, which was driven by his grandson, Sam.

Click here to view all results from the HSRCA Sydney Classic.

Photos: Priceless Images

20 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Photos: Priceless Images

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 21

Photo: Bob Taylor

LOVEDAY READY FOR AORC PARTY

The BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship reaches the midway point of the 2021 season this month with the Can-Am Loveday 400 finally getting its chance to shine on the national stage.

While the South Australian event did take place last year, the cancellation of the AORC season due to COVID-19 restrictions around the country meant that it was to run as a special cup-style race.

The event, which ran as the Motorsport Australia Central East Off Road Cup, still managed to attract many high-profile names and put on an entertaining display for the spectators and crews alike.

The off road enduro saw predominantly South Australian

22 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

drivers tackle 400 kilometres across five sets of two 40km laps and Aaron Haby ultimately came out on top.

This year, that format is staying the same with prologue on Saturday morning, before crews complete the first two sets on Saturday afternoon and the remaining laps on Sunday.

With record numbers initially entered in both the Cobb & Co Hotel St George 399 and the Tatts Finke Desert Race, Loveday has already received around 34 entries for the third round of the season, despite lots of uncertainty surrounding the current border closures.

Even with the uncertainty, event organiser Tony Whateley was confident the race would be a hit again after what proved a successful edition last year.

Photos: Bob Taylor

“Competition wise, there isn’t anything very new to be added at this point of time, but we are throwing some new ideas around,” Whateley said.

“The championship has had a really good start to the year in terms of numbers and people are clearly pretty keen to be competing at every opportunity, which is why we’re confident we will get a heap of competitors.

“The championship is really strong this year and it’s great to see a mixture of veterans and less experienced crews in the hunt for the title – we expect that title fight to continue at our event, especially with Josh (Howells) in the box seat.”

Howells, who won the opening round in Queensland and finished second at Finke for the second consecutive

running, currently sits eight points ahead of West Australian star Beau Robinson at the top of the standings.

Since 2018, the New South Welshman’s fast development has seen him turn into one of the strongest drivers in the championship and always in contention for outright round victories.

A victory in South Australia would put him within arm’s reach of his maiden national title – an achievement which is also on the cards for Robinson and the third placed Greg Gartner.

However, the contenders may have to wait a little longer for the round with Whateley considering a postponement due to the current situation.

“We definitely have the best of intentions to run our event,” Whateley said.

“Given the current state of the border restrictions, we understand that competitors might not want to commit and pay the entry fee, so I’ve decided to start off with competitors purely registering their interest with no payment until a date has been confirmed.

"Of course, this new registration process means people can enter the event without having to financially commit to the event until we are confirmed, which is a great result for the championship.”

The Can-Am Loveday 400 is the third round of the 2021 BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship and will take place in Loveday on either 2325 July or 24-26 September.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 23

TOBY’S TIME IN FINKE After three failed attempts, Toby Price finally made history last month, becoming the first person to win the Tatts Finke Desert Race on both a bike and in a car.

Having made a name for himself on two-wheels, Price has won Finke a record six times, making him the most prolific rider in the event’s long history - yet doing it in a car always eluded him.

However, in 2021, the Queenslander finally took out that long awaited victory – producing a perfect weekend behind the wheel of his Trophy Truck and securing the greatest prize in Australian off road racing.

Right from the get-go, Price was on song and took out Method Race Wheels Prologue ahead of current BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC) leader Josh Howells.

Just as he had in 2019, Price comfortably led the field for the first 226km and arrived in Finke with a healthy lead over Howells, who had been locked in a battle for second place against WA star Beau Robinson.

Going down to Finke had never been an issue for Price, it was always coming back that proved his biggest obstacle, but this year wouldn’t be like previous years as the determined Price took his time and made it back as the 2021 King of the Desert – his two navigators in Joseph Weining and Mark Dutton taking out the victory on their first attempt.

Howells and his co-driver Eric Hume showed why they are the future of the sport with the New South Welshman securing second place for the second consecutive year - his final day efforts seeing him bridge the gap to Price to just over one minute.

Photos: Terry Hill Photography

24 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Almost six minutes behind the Pro Buggy winner were Robinson and Shane Hutt, while Aaron James put in a stellar shift behind the wheel to finish in fourth place by himself.

At the end of the weekend though, the event belonged to Price who was just relieved to finally break his duck.

“It was a close one,” Price said.

“We’ve been working hard for that one… it’s a dream come true.

“About 100km out, the engine water (temperature) just started fluctuating and having heaps of dramas, so we just tried to preserve it and look after the truck.

“Then Josh (Howells) got on the back of us, and I thought ‘it’s now or never’ and we were either going to cook the motor or get to the finish line. But we’re here.”

Other notable results saw the seventh placed Andrew Mowels take out the Prolite class, Sportslite winner Steven Graham finish 16th and Kye Floyd as the highest placed SXS Turbo pilot in 20th outright.

Out of the 148 starting crews, only 101 managed to complete the distance with some big names like Jason Richards, Shane Elphinstone and Toby Whateley unable to finish the race.

The AORC continues later this month with the Can-Am Loveday 400 on 26-28 July.

TOP 10 OUTRIGHT 1. Toby Price/Joseph Weining/ Mark Dutton – 03:22:31.7 2. Josh Howells/Eric Hume (+01:19.5) 3. Beau Robinson/Shane Hutt (+05:40.4) 4. Aaron James (+07:09.7) 5. Peter Costello/Ben Brooks (+13:15.8) 6. Brad Gallard/Dean Keyes (+14:14.6) 7. Andrew Mowles/Tegan Mowles (+20:57.5) 8. Michael Marson/Chris Colborne (+21:00.8) 9. Billy Geddes/Jamie Ward (+21:42.8) 10. Talbot Cox/Craig King (+22:29.3)

CLASS WINNERS Pro Buggy Josh Howells/Eric Hume Prolite Andrew Mowles/Tegan Mowles Super 1650 Simon Tucker/ Kyle Tucker/Lucy Tucker Performance 2WD Steve Nicol/Josh Dawes Extreme 2WD Toby Price/Joseph Weining/Mark Dutton Production 4WD Geoff Pickering/Dylan Watson Extreme 4WD Adam Murrihy/Ryan Higgins SXS Turbo Kye Floyd/Arron Holland SXS Sport Rick Chambers/Brenton Chambers Sportslite Steven Graham/Daryl Graham/Jay Mitchell

Photos: Terry Hill Photography

NIGEL HARRIS

Motorsport Australia was saddened to hear of the tragic news surrounding the passing of Nigel Harris during the Finke Desert Race in Alice Springs.

Hailing from the ACT, Nigel was spectating approximately 35km from the finish line on the Monday morning and was involved in an incident with a vehicle.

Motorsport Australia extends its sympathies to the families, friends and all those impacted by events to have taken place.

Together with event organisers, Motorsport Australia will begin its own investigation into the incident and will of course assist all relevant authorities with their respective investigations.

Motorsport Australia is also providing ongoing support and assistance to all competitors, officials and those associated with the event, which includes providing counselling services.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 25

Photos: Terry Hill Photography

A CHANGE IN SPORTING REGULATIONS FOR AORC Ahead of last month’s Tatts Finke Desert Race, the BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC) made two changes to its sporting regulations.

The changes were made after a review by Motorsport Australia in order to make the championship a fairer and simpler competition in the current environment, including the ongoing border restrictions impacting competitors’ Championship aspirations.

The first major change to the regulations sees the AORC title now decided by participating crews’ best four rounds counting towards their final points score, instead of all five.

The rule was amended as a result of many Victorian based crews being unable to attend round two in the Northern Territory due to the border closures. The change ensures competitors can still be in contention with good results in the remaining three rounds and aren’t unfairly disadvantaged by border closures outside their control.

The second change applied to the outright AORC points score with the scoring system simplified.

Previously, crews would receive points for their results in each section/heat of an event, however crews will now receive points solely based on their finishing position at the end of an event.

The winner of an event will receive 31 points, while the runner-up will gain 29 and each descending position thereafter will receive one less point until 30th place.

26

Crews who finish 31st or below will not receive any championship points towards their total season score.

Although the scoring system has been adjusted for outright standings, the class championships remain the same whereby points are based on section results.

“As for the scoring system – crews should be rewarded for where they finish an event like many other sporting codes around the world and the way it has been in previous years has proved quite complicated.

“And with different events running different formats, it means there is

“These changes mean the AORC won’t be impacted by ongoing border closures because a crew may be unable to attend an event” - Michael Smith Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations

Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations Michael Smith was confident the changes were for the better of the sport.

“We’re really happy to be able to make these changes as it means the AORC won’t be impacted by ongoing border closures because a crew may be unable to attend an event,” Smith said.

“It was an unfortunate situation for Victorian crews being unable to compete in Alice Springs, so by making four rounds count towards the final score instead of five, it means individuals still have the chance to win the Championship.

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

a universal system and crews are not penalised for missing events with more sections. This change should also remove any confusion surrounding the outright points at the end of each round.”

The rules came into immediate effect and were applied for the Tatts Finke Desert Race.

Click here to view the AORC Sporting Regulations.

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ULTIMATE MOTORSPORT

PRIZE U P

F O R

G R A B S

Photo: EDGE Photographics

Motorsport Australia has thrown its support behind Pirtek’s ‘Ultimate Motorsport Prize’ with all proceeds going to support St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney.

The winner of this terrific charity raffle will receive return flights for two to the iconic Mount Panorama circuit, where they will wave the starter’s green flag at the biggest motorsport race of the year – the Bathurst 1000. The prize includes a visit to Motorsport Australia Race Control and a meet-and-greet with Supercars Race Director Tim Schenken.

This ‘money can’t buy prize’ also includes a lap of Bathurst in a course car with Marcos Ambrose, helicopter flights over Mount Panorama, corporate passes, a 28

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

tour of the DJR Shell V-Power Racing Team pit garage with Dick Johnson, plus a meet-and-greet with the winners of the race in Pirtek Victory Lane at the end of the 161-lap thriller.

On top of that, the prize winner will present the winner’s cheque and trophy to the victors of the Pirtek Pit Stop Challenge on national TV, receive an exclusive VIP after hours tour of the National Motor Racing Museum and a personal tour of the Supercars TV compound hosted by Neil Crompton.

There are also second and third prizes on offer, giving participants more of a chance to win something.

A limited number of tickets are being offered for $20 each and all proceeds will support St Vincent’s Hospital’s Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit.

THE ULTIMATE MOTORSPORT PRIZE • Return trip for two to the 2021 Bathurst 1000 from the winner’s nearest Australian capital city • Two nights twin-share accommodation

• Wave the green starter’s flag for the Bathurst 1000 • Ride around Mt Panorama in a Supercars’ Course Car with Marcos Ambrose • Three day Supercars Paddock Club access

• Present the PIRTEK Pit Stop Challenge winners’ trophy and cheque on Friday night • Visit to PIRTEK Victory lane

• Exclusive meet and greet and VIP tour of the Shell V-Power Racing Team garage with the legendary Dick Johnson

• Behind the scenes tour of Mt Panorama - including visit to the top of the mountain and podium • VIP (after hours) tour of the National Motor Racing Museum at Mt Panorama • Helicopter flight around Mt Panorama

• Access to the grid before the race for the national anthem

• A personal tour of the Supercars TV compound with Neil Crompton • A photo taken with the Peter Brock Trophy on the podium

• A visit to Motorsport Australia Race Control with Race Director Tim Schenken Photos: EDGE Photographics

The prize has been made possible through Pirtek, Supercars, Shell V-Power Racing, National Motor Racing Museum, Motorsport Australia and Speedcafe.com.

Pirtek Chief Executive Officer Steve Dutton said he was expecting an enormous response to what is being labelled as the ‘greatest motorsport fan prize ever offered in Australia’.

“Each year we are looking for ideas that will help us boost our commitment to St Vincent’s and the Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit,” Dutton said.

“We have a lot of assets because of our investment in motorsport and we have decided to use them as well as our relationships in the

sport to create what really is the Ultimate Bathurst 1000 prize.

“I don’t think there is much more we could offer other than a drive of an actual car and having the chance to wave the starter’s green flag is just incredible.

“We also love the idea that a raffle provides everyone with the chance to win.”

• A signed photo with the race winners as the ultimate memento • A personal VIP concierge host for the weekend

• Two PIRTEK merchandise packs

SECOND PRIZE • Two Corporate Paddock Club tickets, • Two Course Car rides

• Two grid walks at a 2022 Supercar event of your choice in Australia or New Zealand • PIRTEK merchandise pack

THIRD PRIZE Click here to buy your tickets in the charity raffle.

• Two General Admission tickets to a 2022 Supercars event of your choice in Australia or New Zealand • PIRTEK merchandise pack

*The ‘Ultimate Motorsport Prize’ does not apply to residents of Western Australia and South Australia.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 29

SUPERLICENCE POINTS TWEAKS CONFIRMED

“Motorsport Australia regularly reviews the Superlicence Points System to make sure it's fair and in line with current trends”

Motorsport Australia made minor changes to its Superlicence Points System last month.

The biggest change is the allocation of points for the S5000 Australian Drivers’ Championship, where drivers compete for the Motorsport Australia Gold Star, which now sees the winner awarded 12 points.

Australian Racing Group’s National Trans Am Series is now also eligible for points, with the winner of the series to receive seven points towards a Superlicence application.

The V8 Touring Car/Super3 Series and TCR Australia Series have also enjoyed a small increase to the total points on offer, with the winner of the respective Series to receive 10 points, up from eight for TCR and seven for V8 Touring Car/Super3 Series.

- Michael Smith Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations

Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations Michael Smith said the tweaks reflected the changing nature of the motorsport landscape.

“Motorsport Australia regularly reviews and analyses the Superlicence Points System to make sure it is fair and in line with the current trends in motorsport,” Smith explained.

“We have worked closely with a number of category managers on the changes and believe they are reflective of the current stature of each respective Championship and Series.

Photo: Speed Shots Photography

SUPERLICENCE CRITERIA Each Driver in the Supercars Championship must hold a Motorsport Australia Superlicence in addition to the minimum of an FIA International Grade C licence.

To qualify for a Motorsport Australia Superlicence each applicant must satisfy the following criteria:

“With S5000, given its stature as the holder of the prestigious Motorsport Australia Gold Star title and the vehicles themselves, it makes sense for it to be worthy of 12 Superlicence points for the winner of the Championship and provide an opportunity to provide another pathway to the Supercars Championship.

•

Hold a minimum of an FIA International Grade C licence; and

•

Be a minimum of 17 years of age; and

•

Accumulate a minimum of 13 points under either the FIA or Motorsport Australia Superlicence points system during the 5 years prior to the application

“We know S5000 will continue to grow and establish a strong reputation in the coming years ahead. It’s an important part of our Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships events and is a real fan favourite.” `

In addition to the above each application also must satisfy at least one of the following criteria:

Championship/Series

1st

2nd

3rd

4th

5th

6th

7th

8th

9th

>9th

Supercars Championship* Supercars Development/Super2 Series GT Endurance Championship GT Championship S5000 Drivers Championship/Gold Star Formula 4 Championship* TCR Series Porsche Carrera Cup Series Toyota Racing Series (NZ) Super3/V8 Touring Car Series ARG Trans Am Series Toyota 86 Series Porsche Sprint Challenge Series GT Trophy Series NZ Touring Car Championship State Formula Ford Championship NZ Formula Ford Championship SuperUtes Series Production Car Series Touring Car Masters Series Aussie Racing Car Series Radical Cup Sports Racer Series Sports Sedan Series Karting Championship (KZ2, KA1)

13 12 12 12 12 12 10 10 10 10 7 7 7 7 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 3

11 10 10 10 10 10 8 8 8 8 5 5 5 5 4 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 2

9 8 8 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 1

6 7 7 6 6 5 6 6 6 6 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 0

4 6 6 5 5 3 5 5 5 5 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0

3 5 5 4 4 2 4 4 4 4 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

2 4 4 3 3 1 3 3 3 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1 3 3 2 2 0 2 2 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 2 2 1 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

30 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

1. Be one of the first six of the final classification of the previous year’s Supercars Australia Super2 Series.

If one or more driver/s currently holding a Motorsport Australia Superlicence are within the first six of the final classification, eligibility for a Motorsport Australia Superlicence shall extend up to a maximum of the first eight of the final classification of the previous year’s Series; 2. Have competed in a minimum of three rounds of the Supercars Championship within the last five years; 3. Have competed in a minimum of six rounds of the Supercars Super2 Series within the last three years; 4. Hold a minimum of a Gold FIA Driver Categorisation.

An application with supporting documentation for dispensation for items (1), (2), (3) or (4) above will be jointly considered by of a panel of Motorsport Australia senior management and the Supercars Commission.

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MOTORSPORT CELEBRATES QUEEN'S BIRTHDAY HONOURS For contributions to Australian motorsport, six-time Bathurst 1000 winner Larry Perkins, 1984 and 1985 Motorsport Australia Drivers' Champion John Bowe and 200920 Motorsport Australia President Andrew Papadopoulos were appointed members of the Order of Australia (AM) in last month's Queen's Birthday 2021 Honours List.

Tony Cochrane, renowned visionary for the modern-day Supercars Championship and Dr Michael Henderson, vehicle and motorsport safety expert, were also recognised in the Honours, both receiving the Order of Australia medal for their significant impact to the sport.

Papadopoulos, who was Motorsport Australia’s President for more than

a decade, oversaw a number of key initiatives for the sport and was integral in motorsport safety’s improvements over the years.

First becoming involved in the sport as a competitor for the Alfa Romeo Owners Club of Australia’s NSW division, Papadopoulos served as the club’s State President and then National President. In 2008, after holding positions as both a state Councillor at then a member of the Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (now Motorsport Australia) Board, he was appointed President and held that position until stepping down at the end of 2020.

During his time as President of Motorsport Australia, he oversaw a number of significant achievements, including securing an Australian

round of the FIA World Rally Championship in 2012, establishing the Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame in 2014 and driving significant improvements in motorsport safety, such as the compulsory introduction of frontal head restraints.

Internationally, Papadopoulos always strived to enhance Australia’s reputation in world motorsport and helped establish a number of prestigious overseas training engagements for Motorsport Australia.

He also served the sport in an international capacity as both an FIA Steward and as President of the FIA’s global ASN Development Taskforce.

“To be recognised for this award by my peers for doing something that I love is truly an honour. I am grateful to every single person who helped me with my involvement for all these years,” Papadopoulos said.

“I have always had a passion for motorsport and you don’t do this sort of thing to get accolades or awards, you do it because it’s important to you. This is something I will treasure for the rest of my life.

“There are many people I would like to acknowledge. Eugene Arocca and

32 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

the Motorsport Australia staff and Board, John Large who was a fantastic mentor over the years and of course my family, who have supported me and allowed me to pursue my passion.

“Finally, it is important to note that this award is not just recognition for me – it is recognition of motorsport as a whole because it is our hardworking volunteers, the passion of competitors and development of our youth that drives this sport and keeps it growing around the country.”

The other recipient is Dr Michael Henderson, who made significant contributions to motor vehicle and motorsport safety in the country – including leading the charge for compulsory seat belt laws in Australia.

Hailing from the United Kingdom, Dr Henderson was instrumental in the establishment of the Australian Government’s road crash research unit and test laboratory, Crash Lab, as well as writing over 100 research papers on road safety and leading reviews on head injury prevention.

Dr Henderson’s expertise and passion for motorsport saw him hold multiple high profile roles such as Vice President of the Historic Sports and Racing Car Association of NSW, Deputy Chairman of the Motorsport Australia Historic Motor Sport Commission and the Inaugural Chairman of the Australian Institute for Motor Sport Safety (AIMSS).

His book, Motor Racing in Safety, the Human Factors, proved to be a seminal step in the introduction of safety concepts into a sporting field that was then very dangerous

and caused hundreds of deaths and countless injuries worldwide every year.

“I feel very honoured to receive this award, and to be nominated as an Officer of the Order of Australia,” Henderson said of his award.

“For my entire professional life I have worked with many very smart people in government and private organisations.

“These include road safety bodies in Australia and overseas, the FIA, Motorsport Australia and CAMS. All share in the vital aim of making roads and vehicles safer, for the transport of people and goods and also in competition.

“I’ve always promoted the understanding that scientific method and solid research are essential prerequisites for saving lives and preventing injury. I strongly believe that the basic principles for achievement in this endeavour, whether in competition or on the public roads, are the same.”

In recognition of his significant contribution to motorsport, in 2004 Dr Henderson was awarded life membership of Motorsport Australia and in 2016 was presented with the Award of Merit, Motorsport Australia’s highest award for individual service to Australian motor racing.

Motorsport Australia President Andrew Fraser applauded both Papadopoulos and Dr Henderson for being named on the 2021 Honours List.

“I am very pleased that both Andrew and Dr Henderson have been recognised in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honour’s List as they have

been critical in helping motorsport get to where it is today,” Fraser said.

“Motorsport Australia has grown to be a globally recognised leader in motorsport under Andrew’s leadership, and his passion for motorsport has seen him rise to a significant position within the FIA, particularly in the area of ASN Development.

“His commitment to driver development is particularly noteworthy and it is no accident that there are so many young and talented Australian racers competing in the world today.

“Dr Henderson established a worldwide reputation for excellence in safety, and for more than 50 years he has had an internationally recognised pre-eminent role in the area of motor vehicle safety research. While difficult to quantify, his contribution towards the reduction in trauma and death on both the road and the race track has been very significant.”

“Both gentlemen are worthy recipients of this award and everyone at Motorsport Australia is extremely proud of their achievements.”

Photos: George Hitchens

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 33

ANNUAL REPORT AVAILABLE ONLINE Last month, Motorsport Australia published its 2020 annual report online.

Looking through the year that was, the report focuses on a number of key aspects for Motorsport Australia, including the latest financial reports.

While 2020 will always be remembered as a challenging year due to COVID-19, it also brought plenty of change for Motorsport Australia, including the official rebrand from Confederation of Australian Motorsport (CAMS), the launch of a new smartphone app and a licence restructure.

The publication also covers statistical highlights, memorable motorsport events of the year, a summary of the Board and an address from newly elected president, Andrew Fraser.

As an introductory to the report, Fraser touches on the many difficulties that were presented as a result of COVID-19 and how Motorsport Australia came out better on the other side.

“After many years of growth, we were suddenly faced with a significant decrease in revenue (51%, year-on-year) which forced the organisation to adapt quickly,” Fraser wrote in the report.

34

“We’ve set about making it easier for more people to enjoy more motorsport more often as we ‘Return To Race’.”

“The Board appointed a dedicated Recovery Taskforce made up of industry experts to provide recommendations across the sport and reduce the barriers to participation. The Board endorsed all their recommendations, and many have already come into effect.

“In short, we’ve set about making it easier for more people to enjoy more motorsport more often as we ‘Return To Race’. Change is never easy, and by definition results in people who are less and more enthused than others.

“But change is inevitable and it is how we deal with change, and how we adapt that is most important. We believe the changes are in the longer term interests of the sport, and we will continue to listen to all views as we set a course for an uncertain future.”

- Andrew Fraser

“As such, we had a responsibility to look at everything we did as an organisation and set about driving a radical simplification of Motorsport Australia’s processes to create a more efficient organisation prepared for the future ahead.

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Click here to read the full statement and the full report.

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VAN GISBERGEN SHINES IN SIZZLING DARWIN If there was any doubt that Shane van Gisbergen may have lost his edge after having only won one race out of the previous six, then his weekend at the Merlin Darwin Triple Crown would have silenced those thoughts.

A forgettable pit stop in the first race of the weekend would have had the 2016 champion a little nervy, as Chaz Mostert won his second race of the season in brilliant fashion and slightly closed the gap on the leader.

The race proved quite chaotic as the opening turn resulted in polesitter Anton De Pasquale and a number of other drivers heading straight to the pits, before van Gisbergen became the next Hidden Valley victim – going from first to the back of the field after being stationary for 30 seconds due to his mechanics unable to replace his wheel.

However the New Zealander showed how mentally strong he is, flying through the field once he made it back on track to finish an amicable 13th place.

That mentally was there for all to see again on the Sunday as van Gisbergen comfortably claimed both victories after passing polesitter Will Davison

Photos: EDGE Photographics

36 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Photos: EDGE Photographics

off the line. His two victories saw him notch up one of his best hauls in Darwin.

Davison was no match for the Red Bull Holden Race Team star and although he comfortably claimed second place in both races – it was van Gisbergen’s day as he regained that handy 200 point lead over teammate Jamie Whincup on the Championship standings.

However at the end of the event, it was Mostert who had the last laugh as his two fourth places on Sunday scored him enough points to secure round honours.

The Repco Supercars Championship now turns its attention to the NTI Townsville 500 on 9-11 July.

RACE 12 1. Chaz Mostert 2. Cam Waters 3. Nick Percat

RACE 13 1. Shane van Gisbergen 2. Will Davison 3. Jamie Whincup

RACE 14

CHAMPIONSHIP TOP 10 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Shane van Gisbergen - 1361 points Jamie Whincup - 1140 Chaz Mostert - 1131 Will Davison - 1087 Cameron Waters - 1064 Mark Winterbottom - 861 Nick Percat - 827 Anton De Pasquale - 762 James Courtney - 744 Will Brown – 741

1. Shane van Gisbergen 2. Will Davison 3. Jamie Whincup

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 37

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA APP AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD All Motorsport Australia members can now access their licence on their mobile device, with the new Motorsport Australia app available on the App Store and Google Play.

The app will replace existing licence cards, providing competitors and officials with an up-to-date licence which can be viewed on any device.

This is one of many upgrades of Motorsport Australia’s technology solutions, designed to make life easier for everyone taking part in motorsport events across Australia.

Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca said the app would reduce delays for members waiting on hard licence cards in the post, as well as ensuring people had the most up to date details to show at Motorsport Australia events.

“We want to see more people, enjoying more motorsport, more often and this app is one of the latest developments to help achieve this,” Arocca said.

“Once members have renewed their licence via the Member Portal or with our membership team, the app will update instantly, meaning there’s no waiting for the card to be printed and then sent in the mail.

“Of course, anyone who still requires a physical card can be provided one on request, but as technology changes and people are more likely to move around without a wallet full of cards, we know our members will make the most of this app on their phone or tablet when attending events and needing to show their licence.”

The app can be found in Apple’s App Store and Google Play by

38 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

searching ‘Motorsport Australia’. You can also click on your chosen store below to download the app now.

Members can log in to the app using their existing Motorsport Australia Member Portal login details. If you have not registered for the Member Portal, you will need to do so before using the app.

Click here to learn more about the Motorsport Australia App.

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

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

SEND US YOUR STORIES! If you have a motorsport story which you think should be told, get in touch with us and it could appear in Speed Read.

If you have pictures or videos of motorsport you would like to share with us, we encourage you to do so. They could appear on our website, social media platforms or in Speed Read.

Please email communications@motorsport.org.au We look forward to hearing from you!

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 39

THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE PARTNERS

THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT THROUGH THE AUSTRALIAN SPORT COMMISSION RECOGNISES MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA TO DEVELOP MOTORSPORT IN AUSTRALIA