Motorsport Australia Speed Read - June 2021

SPEED READ J U N E

2 0 2 1

THE DESERT AWAITS After almost two years, the wait for the biggest off road event in Australia is almost over with the Tatts Finke Desert Race to run later this month.

BATES' GOLDEN RUN WITH QUEENSLAND CLEAN SWEEP Harry Bates and John McCarthy dominated last month’s Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland to continue their perfect start to 2021.

JUNE UPCOMING STATE EVENTS

HAVE YOUR SAY ON FORMULA FORD

Check out the upcoming club and state events happening all around the country in June.

Motorsport Australia will host a stakeholder forum providing an update on its recent discussions around the future of Formula Ford, and is inviting you to join.

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

TO GET SH D AN A A Q NO Y NS TO UO .C OM EN TE .A T U/ E RA R M

A RAM 1500 EXPRESS V8 & INDIAN SCOUT BOBBER TWENTY Shannons are giving motoring enthusiasts the chance to win two American legends – an awesome RAM 1500 Express V8 Quad Cab and an Indian Scout Bobber Twenty Motorcycle! Including up to 12-months Shannons Car and Bike Insurance and Shannons Roadside Assist1. Plus $5,000 cash for eligible Shannons Club Members2.

Tow, carry, move, see and enjoy more with your very own RAM 1500 Express V8 Quad Cab, finished in Granite Grey with black cab-length tubular side steps. There’s nothing quite like a full-size American pickup, and the RAM features a V8 Hemi engine with a 4.5 Tonne max braked towing capacity.

The Indian Scout Bobber Twenty’s design nods back to the original Scout with its mean, old school bobber looks. In Thunder Black Smoke, the motorcycle features a mix of chrome and blacked-out finishes, wire wheels, mini-ape handlebars and a floating saddle seat.

10

You could win up to a massive $113,000 in prizes!

1 5 ENTRY

Get an eligible Quote^

ENTRIES

Take out an eligible new Motor Policy*

ENTRIES

Take out an eligible new Home & Contents Policy or have an Existing Home & Contents Policy+

The more quotes you get the more chances you have to win!

To enter go to shannons.com.au/ram or call 13 46 46 and obtain an eligible quote on your Car, Bike or Home Insurance^ by 29 June 2021**.

Scan to find out more

INSURANCE FOR MOTORING ENTHUSIASTS | CALL 13 46 46 FOR A QUOTE | SHANNONS.COM.AU Shannons Pty Limited ABN 91 099 692 636 is an authorised representative of AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807, the issuer of Shannons Car, Bike and Home/Contents insurance products. Read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and consider whether it is right for you before buying these insurance products. Call us on 13 46 46 for a copy. Competition conducted by Shannons Pty Limited, of Level 28, Brisbane Square, 266 George Street, Brisbane, QLD 4000. Competition commences at 12am on 9/3/21 and closes at 11.59pm on 29/6/21 (Melbourne time) (Entry Period). Prize drawn 12pm 8/7/21 at Engage Interactive, 24 Washpool Crescent, Woongarrah, NSW 2259. Winner published in The Australian 14/7/21. Entry is only open to eligible Australian residents aged 18 years or older. Eligible Entrants must be opted in to receive Shannons marketing communications. Permits: ACT TP 21/00190, NSW TP/00259, SA T21/107. Images for illustrative purposes only. Full T&Cs and entry options at shannons.com.au/ ram. 1Actual period may be less than 365 days depending on the winner’s location and delivery/pick up date, however, won’t be less than 11 months residual benefit. The issue of Shannons Insurance is subject to Shannons’ normal acceptance criteria. The inclusion of this component of the prize does not constitute financial product advice or a recommendation to acquire any Shannons Insurance product. The issue of Shannons Roadside Assist is subject to the winner being issued the comprehensive car and motorcycle insurance portion of the prize and the Issuer’s normal acceptance criteria. 2 If the winner is a member of the Shannons Club with a profile image and enthusiast vehicle image at the time of the draw, they will receive $5,000 AUD cash. ^Apply for and receive a new Shannons Motor Insurance (excludes CTP insurance) (“Motor Policy”) or a new Shannons Home & Contents Insurance Policy (includes building only, contents only or building and contents cover) (“Home Policy”) quote during the Entry Period.

Limit 1 quote per vehicle or insured address. For the avoidance of doubt, an Eligible Insurance Quote for a combined building and contents policy constitutes one risk for the purposes of this Competition. Quotes and issue of policy are subject to Shannons’ normal underwriting acceptance criteria. **Applications made online for quotes must be submitted by 24/6/21, however, telephone applications will continue to be available until 11.59pm 29/6/21. *Purchase a new Motor Policy (excludes existing Motor Policy renewals) during the Entry Period. +Purchase a new Home Policy OR hold an existing fully paid Home Policy (current during the Entry Period). Customers that do not wish to participate in the competition can email enquiries@shannons.com.au. To be entered into the draw customers must not have opted out of Shannons marketing communications during the Entry Period. The Promoter reserves the right to modify or suspend the Competition Website from time to time, at the Promoter’s discretion, without notice to the Eligible Entrant. The Promoter assumes no responsibility for any error, omission, interruption or delay an Eligible Entrant may experience from the Promoter modifying or suspending the Competition Website.

CONTENTS 4

What's on in June?

6

Latest FIA Rally Star winners revealed

8

Have your say on Formula Ford

10

Burson backs Girls On Track

11

Rust and Armstrong share unique insights

12

Club Development Fund returns in 2021

14

Busy May for State Circuit Racing

16

Club volunteers to gain development

18

Rob wins thrilling Heartland rally

20

Safety Summit super success

22

The desert awaits

26

Popular Red CentreNATS official callout

28

Ricciardo’s Racers to return in July

30

Crocker enjoys perfect run in SXS

32

Bates' golden run with Queensland clean sweep

36

Elysian Energy adding power to ARC

37

Shannons at Morgan Park postponed

38

Three new drivers enjoy Supercars top step

40

Electric Porsche tackles Targa Tasmania

42

Motorsport Australia App available for download

8 14 22 28 32

COVER PHOTO

Commencing on 11 June, the Tatts Finke Desert Race is ready to test the Nation's best off-road competitors.

With 175 four-wheeled machines to hit the dust of Alice Springs, this year's event is set to be huge.

Photo: Terry Hill Photography

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

38

WHAT'S ON IN

JUNE? NEW SOUTH WALES AND ACT

Photo: Gold Coast Tweed Motorsporting Club QLD: Tamborine Khanacross - 6-7 June An event targeted at developing drivers, the Gold Coast Tweed Motorsporting Club's Tamborine Khanacross will be run as a Come and Try event with no results being published.

5 June: PCNSW Tony McKnight Motorkhana Non-Championship Round - Night 6 June: MG Car Club Canberra Multi Club Motorkhana 6 June: Club Motorkhana R1 6 June: June Khanacross 6 June: NSW Motorkhana Championship R5 and Ernie's Revenge Motorkhana 11 June: 2021 Australian Hay Mini Nationals 12-13 June: HSRCA 2021 Sydney Classic 12-13 June: NSW Hillclimb Championship R5 13 June: HSVFEST 2021 20 June: Come and Try Headspace Motorkhana 20 June: BMW Drivers Club NSW Supersprint Championship R4 20 June: 2021 R4 Porsche Club NSW Inc Supersprint Championship 25-27 June: 1st Annual Historic Hillclimb 26-27 June: Mount Porcupine Hillclimb 26-27 June: Jim Anderson Kempsey 300

QUEENSLAND

5 June: CCCC Bitumen Khanacross and Motorkhana Series R2 5-6 June: R2 NQ Khanacross Series and R2 TCAC Khanacross series 5-6 June: 2021 Motorsport Australia Queensland State Circuit Racing Championship R2 6-7 June: Tamborine Khanacross 12 June: Clermont Motorkhana and Come and Try Day 12-13 June: FNQ R5 Bitumen Khanacross 19 June: KCF Rallysport Short Course Benarkin 19-20 June: Go for Gold Rallysprint 2021 19-20 June: Mt Cotton Hillclimb R3 19-20 June: R2 2021 QLD/NSW Sprint Challenge and R2 2021 Short Circuit Touring Cars Series 20 June: HSCCQ Khanacross 25-26 June: R3 Bender/Palm Memorial Khanacross 25-27 June: Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships R4

Photo: Historic Sports Racing Club Australia NSW: HSRCA 2021 Sydney Classic - 12-13 June Honouring the great late Ron Tauranac, hundreds of vintage cars will be gracing the circuit of Sydney Motorsport Park in a jam packed weekend of classic motorsport.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA AND NORTHERN TERRITORY

6 June: Scout JDP 2 5-6 June: Whyalla Car Enthusiasts Khanacross and Come and Try Event 11-14 June: Tatts Finke Desert Race 13 June: MSCA Super Sprint 18-20 June: Merlin Darwin Triple Crown 20 June: SCCSA 2021 Collingrove Challenge 2 26-27 June: The Guidolin Carpentry SGORA 200

4

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Photo: Danny Hanrahan SA: The Guidolin Carpentry SGORA 200 - 26-27 June Two days of non-stop action will take place in Port Germein as the Spencer Gulf Off Road Association hosts its annual off road event.

TASMANIA

5 June: R2 Motor Sports Club of Tasmania 2021 Motorkhana Series 20 June: North West Car Club Khanacross 27 June: Motorsport Australia Tasmanian Circuit Racing Championship R4

VICTORIA

Victorian June events may be postponed or cancelled due the current COVID-19 restrictions.

5-6 June: VCAS R5 6 June: Impreza WRX Club R2 Motorsport 6 June: Gippsland Car Club - Multiclub Hillclimb - Bryant Park 6 June: Broadford Sprint 6 June: BCC Khanacross and Motorkhana 6 June: PAC June Junior Come and Try 6 June: Avalon Motorkhana R2 6 June: Boisdale Hillclimb Circuit Motorkhana 12-13 June: Trydel EZIUP&GO Victorian Hillclimb Championship R5 18-19 June: Freedom four-hour Endurance Event 20 June: Avalon Khanacross R3 20 June: Kyneton Car Club Autocross Championship R4 26-27 June: Motorsport Australia 2021 Victorian Supersprint Championship R2, R3 PIARC Supersprint

Photo: Angryman Photography TAS: Motorsport Australia Tasmanian Circuit Racing Championship R4 - 27 June Like many other states, the Tasmanian Circuit Racing Championships is in a very healthy position as hundreds of competitors turn to the Pepsi Max Baskerville Raceway for the fourth round of the year

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

5-6 June: Make Tracks WA ARB Bencubbin Enduro 5-7 June: Great Southern Street Machine Association Inc Weekend of Speed 5-6 June: Burson Auto Parts Albany Classic 2021 and Burson Auto Parts Mt Clarence Hill Climb 5-6 June: State Motorkhana R2 12-13 June: WRX Club Collie Weekend 20 June: PCWA SSR 5

Photo: Ararat Car Club VIC: Trydel EZIUP&GO Victorian Hillclimb Championship R5 - 12-13 June The ever competitive Trydel EZIUP&GO Motorsport Australia Victorian Hillclimb Championship heads to the popular One Tree Hill for the first and only time this year with the Ararat Car Club on hosting duties.

Photo: Edge Photographics

NT: Merlin Darwin Triple Crown 18-20 June The Repco Supercars Championship heads to Darwin for one of the most prestigious prizes of the season, which was won by Jamie Whincup last year.

Photo: Dakar Press Team Australia

WA: Make Tracks WA ARB Bencubbin Enduro - 5-6 June The third round of the Motorsport Australia WA Off Road Championship will see 30 crews take on up to 425 competitive kilometres on the challenging Bencubbin course.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 5

Photos: Dave Oliver

LATEST FIA RALLY STAR WINNERS REVEALED The FIA Rally Star Program’s Australian edition has seen another three young individuals take the next step towards a fully funded drive in the Junior FIA World Rally Championship.

With a special Slalom Challenge at Sydney Motorsport Park following

the second running of the Digital Challenge at the Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland last month, Nickalas Jande and Ethan Kilbride both won their respective competitions to make it through to the next round.

Kilbride, who won the second Digital leg of the program, posted the fastest FIA Rally Star challenge time on the simulator playing the critically acclaimed WRC9 game during the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship’s second round in Gympie.

With each participant allowed three chances on the challenge, Kilbride’s first run was

6 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

third fastest before he improved by more than 20 seconds in his second run to post the unbeatable time – the next fastest being Drew Ridge a further six seconds slower.

It turned out to be a family affair in the Digital Queensland challenge with Kilbride’s sister Holly also securing the fastest time out of the contesting women taking part.

Both Kilbrides now join Reilly Blyth in next year’s National Finals in Melbourne, after the Canberran took out the first leg of the competition last month, with the eventual male and female winner of that event to earn a spot in the AsiaPacific Continental Finals later next year.

In a thrilling Slalom event, Jande beat 10 other rally hopefuls in an

Photo: Dave Oliver

elimination style format where each driver completed multiple runs of a course layout.

The first stage saw participants undergo a one-hour session where they got one reconnaissance lap before two timed laps – the best of which saw them qualify for the next stage.

Like many motorkhanas, khanacrosses and autocrosses, drivers who hit a cone, made a false start or didn't hit their braking zones were given time penalties – making it harder to qualify for the next stage.

The best driver from each group then tackled a modified version of the first stage’s layout – only this time their final score was an accumulation of their two laps times rather than their fastest lap.

Throughout the two times laps, Jande proved too strong for his closest rival in Luke Crozier, going almost three seconds faster in the opening run before taking out the second run by ninth tenths – moving his total lead to three and half seconds.

As the winner of the Slalom challenge, Jande bypasses the National Final for the Digital Winners and gets direct access to the Asia-Pacific Continental Finals later next year.

“It feels pretty exciting to have won it,” Jande said.

“It was a little bit tough because the other guys were pretty talented but I was comfortable.

“Even though I have not done anything like those challenges before, I have had experience driving during track days which certainly helped me.

“It feels pretty special that I will get to do this. I am not into rallying as much as I am circuit, but it was a cool opportunity so I thought I would give it a go and now I am onto the next so it’s exciting.”

The next FIA Rally Star Australian edition challenge will be at the Gippsland Rally Service Park in Gippsland, Victoria on Saturday 7 August.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 7

HAVE YOUR SAY ON FORMULA FORD Motorsport Australia will host a stakeholder forum providing an update on its recent discussions around the future of Formula Ford.

Earlier this month, Motorsport Australia convened a Formula Ford working group made up of Motorsport Australia staff, Australian Motor Racing Commission members and Formula Ford stakeholders.

That group has met several times in recent weeks and has also spoken to a large number of interested parties who have presented their views to the group for consideration.

made to date. All members of the working group will be in attendance.

The webinar will be held online, meaning anyone from around Australia can attend. Using the Zoom platform, those watching on will also be able to ask questions as part of an interactive Q&A session.

A full replay of the evening will also be made available on the Motorsport Australia website for those who are unable to attend.

As part of the next stage of the project and to allow for further feedback, a free webinar will be held on 8 June for industry stakeholders to have their say and receive a detailed update on the progress the working group has

Any participants wishing to attend the webinar must register in advance by clicking here.

MEMBERS OF THE FORMULA FORD WORKING GROUP Michael Smith (Chair) Motorsport Australia – Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations Ryan Story Chair, Australian Motor Racing Commission Andrew Jones Member, Australian Motor Racing Commission Michael Ritter Director, Sonic Motor Racing Services Phil Marrinon Member, Formula Ford Association Committee

Photo: Formula Ford Association

8 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

EXPERT ADVICE TIPS & TRICKS MEMBERS PRICING

PROVIDED BY THE MOST EXPERIENCED PARTS PEOPLE IN THE GAME

SIGN UP TO BURSON GARAGE FOR FREE TODAY!

WWW.BURSONGARAGE.COM.AU

Photo: Chantel Collins

BURSON BACKS GIRLS ON TRACK Burson Auto Parts is the latest organisation to show its support for the FIA Girls On Track program in Australia, named as the program’s Official Auto Parts Partner.

Burson, long time supporters of Motorsport Australia and grassroots motorsport, will also offer program participants the opportunity to take on cadetships and other exciting employment opportunities for those eager to explore careers in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) space.

Girls On Track continues to go from strength-to-strength, with a number of events already held in 2021. More events are calendared for the remainder of the year, giving participants an opportunity to experience all components of motorsport, whether it be driving on track, working as a team engineer, covering the sport as a media

professional or any other of the wide range of roles related to the sport.

network of 200 Burson stores.

We can’t wait to be involved.”

Burson Auto Parts Executive General Manager Steve Drummy said partnering with Motorsport Australia and Girls On Track made perfect sense.

Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca welcomed the extension of Burson Auto Part’s support through the Girls On Track initiative.

“For several years, we’ve been proud partners of Motorsport Australia and in particular, supporting grassroots motorsport around the country,” Drummy said.

“It is a privilege for Motorsport Australia to partner and work with organisations like Burson Auto Parts,” Arocca said.

“Girls On Track is a program we’ve been impressed by, noting its ability to engage with young girls aged eight to 18 to encourage them to consider a career in motorsport, and not just as competitors. We are eager to see everyone enjoying what makes this sport so great.

“The engineering side of the sport is obviously something we’re really passionate about given the products and services we offer through our

“We are eager to see everyone enjoying what makes this sport so great” - Steve Drummy, Burson Auto Parts Executive General Manager 10 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

“The Girls On Track program is extremely popular and has been very successful in encouraging more young women to enjoy more motorsport more often.

“Giving girls an insight into motorsport and showing them that they can enjoy a number of varied and enjoyable roles is something we are very proud to be able to do as the peak body for motorsport in this country.

“Thanks to Burson, we will also be able to add further activities to the program which focus on the engineering side of motorsport, utilising many of the wonderful products Burson have in stock.”

Click here for more information or to find out when an FIA Girls On Track event is coming to an area near you.

RUST AND ARMSTRONG SHARE UNIQUE INSIGHTS Nadine Armstrong shared an insightful conversation with popular motorsport presenter, Greg Rust during last month’s episode of Motorsport Australia’s online FIA Girls On Track program, presented

by D2N Technology Solutions.

Speaking in a one-on-one interview on Motorsport Australia’s Instagram channel, the duo touched on a variety of topics related to women in motorsport.

“I think as a code and a sport, we are in very good shape in terms of what we are doing in this space” - Grag Rust

The father of two daughters has been in motorsport for more than two decades working in various media roles and has seen many changes occur during his time in the sport, having worked with some highprofile women in the process.

Remaining highly supportive of the expansion of women’s involvement, Rust believed the idea of motorsport being just for men was rare

nowadays and that there were plenty of women worthy of carrying a position of any level in the sport.

“I think some of the misconceptions we have about women in motorsport are perhaps dated to what may have perceived going back many decades ago,” Rust said.

“What we are fortunate to have now are great ambassadors, role models and mentors that have done the hard work to get through the acceptance to be able to move into different areas because they are genuinely the best people for the job.

“It also means for the next generation watching this that it is possible (to have a career) in what many have been considered a very male dominated game in the 1960s and 1970s.

“To have race drivers who are young and those who are more experienced showing what they are capable of, and then those that are behind the scenes in some of the roles (in motorsport).

“That is immensely helpful for growing. You are not just shining a light on it. We are actually letting people know that it is very real.

What they are doing is that you too can have crack at if you want “I think as a code and a sport, we are in very good shape in terms of what we are doing in this space. For me it is real. It is absolutely justified and I love the fact that it’s an even playing field.”

Armstrong echoed Rust's comments and was confident that it wasn’t just motorsport where the change in acceptance was happening.

“Motorsport and the auto industry in general is not unique in this area,” Armstrong added.

“We look at AFL and when I was growing up, there was no such thing as a female football team - we are now seeing women thrive in that industry now.

“So it is a case of paving the way for future generations. And that’s what the Girls on Track program is about – giving girls aged 8 to 18 to really start thinking about a career in STEM and all the other things we can do in motorsport.”

The full chat can be viewed on the Motorsport Australia Instagram page.

Photo: Turn 7 Media

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 11

Photo: Angryman Photography

CLUB DEVELOPMENT FUND RETURNS IN 2021 Sporting Clubs affiliated with Motorsport Australia can now apply for funding support through the Motorsport Australia Club Development Fund.

As part of Motorsport Australia’s commitment to grow the sport at grassroots level, the Club Development Fund initiative provides clubs with the opportunity to increase membership and event participation, as well as support facility projects.

Since its inception in 2015, thousands of dollars have been provided to Motorsport Australia affiliated sporting car clubs for a variety of different activities and projects.

In 2021, there will be two separate funding rounds with clubs limited to one successful application of up to $1500 per calendar year.

The first round of applications opened last month and will be open until 5pm AEST on 30 June, while the second round will open at the start of July and close on 31 October.

There are four different streams to which clubs can apply for grants under the Motorsport Australia Club Development Fund.

The options include the purchase of safety and operational equipment,

volunteer upskilling, women and girls’ participation and support for events and activities.

Applications under the Fund must meet specific criteria and will be prioritised if they have local government support and/or focus on growth and development within the motorsport community.

Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca noted the many benefits for clubs that the fund will provide.

“As we have seen over the past six months, there have been a number of State Government schemes that have provided funding to sporting clubs around the country,” Arocca said.

“Our Fund provides a similar opportunity and I encourage Motorsport Australia affiliated clubs to apply to help grow and develop their own club and the sport.

“Whether a club is seeking support for an event to increase membership or to purchase equipment to finish a project that’s been put on hold, this fund can provide the extra support.”

Applying to the fund is a threestep process. Clubs simply need to check their eligibility, contact their local Regional Development Executive and apply online.

12 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

“I encourage clubs to apply to help grow and develop their own club and the sport” - Eugene Arocca, CEO

Outcomes for the applications will be communicated to successful clubs by the end of July for round one and November for round two.

First round applications are being accepted until 30 June. `

Click here for more information on the Motorsport Australia Club Development Fund.

Are you Looking for

OFFICIAL FINANCE PARTNER

COMPETITIVE FINANCE OPTIONS?

Providing Specialist Finance Solutions to the Motorsport Industry.

Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned racer, Morris Finance are here to find you the right solution to fund your motorsport activities.

If you’re looking to purchase your next race car, transporter, garage equipment, or simply looking to generate cash flow through assets you currently own, Morris Finance will find a solution to meet your needs.

At Morris Finance our specialists will work with you to create competitive finance options, leaving you with the cash flow to use across the racing season. Call us on 1300 4 MORRIS today to discuss how our finance options can help you.

ENQUIRE TODAY

Finance Options Our finance options include Finance, Investment, Insurance & Leasing for the following:

BUSINESS CAR FINANCE CAPITAL RAISING COMMERCIAL EQUIPMENT COMMERCIAL VEHICLE FINANCE AGRIBUSINESS FINANCE HEAVY MACHINERY FINANCE

morrisfinance.com.au

Photos: Bob Taylor Western Australia Photo: Turn 7 Media

BUSY MAY FOR STATE CIRCUIT RACING The month of May proved quite busy for five states, as they each held a round of their respective circuit championships.

Western Australia, Tasmania, South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales all ran events throughout the month

with the latter two continuing their golden run of record numbers in 2021.

Wanneroo Raceway was the first off the block with the Western Australia Sporting Car Club having held its April meeting to the start of May. More than 120 drivers featured in the nine categories made up of the seven different grids with each getting three races during the one day of action.

Although there were no major dramas during the race meeting, two lap records were broken

Photo: Turn 7 Media

14

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Victoria Photo: Revved Photography

with Brent Sheriff going a tenth faster than Excel Cup previous lap record holder Dean Hill, while Matt Cherry beat his own Improved Production over 3L record by two tenths.

The middle of May saw Tasmania, South Australia and Victoria all hold their respective rounds on the same weekend with all three reaching more than 100 entries – the standout being the Motorsport Australia Victorian Circuit Racing Championships’ 263 entries, which marked the third time in a row more than 200 competitors featured in a Victorian round this year.

Tasmania Photo: Angryman Photography

Victoria Photo: Revved Photography

Taking place at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, the Improved Production Cars boasted the largest field of the weekend with a whopping 42 cars battling it out on the famous circuit. Adding to the healthiness of the championships were a further six categories attracting fields larger than 20.

Symmons Plains held its first major race meeting since April’s Beaurepaires Tasmania Supersprint and the Tasmanians put on a masterclass display throughout the weekend –

South Australia Photo: Melissa Rees

the biggest field taking place in the joint Sports GT - A and B category.

For the Motorsport Australia SCCSA State Motor Race Championship round, the major highlight was the inclusion of the Sports Sedans, which made its grand return to the state championship after a number of years, while 120 competitors took part in the round at The Bend Motorsport Park.

New South Wales Photo: Priceless Images

place in May with Wakefield Park smashing another attendance record for the second consecutive meeting.

In February, the Goulbourn based circuit enjoyed the largest number of competitors for a February meeting in recorded history, while May’s 150 individual competitors proved the biggest turnout for a meeting of any kind there.

The third round of the Motorsport Australia NSW Motor Race Championships was the final state circuit championship event to take

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 15

Photo: Drag Photos

CLUB VOLUNTEERS TO GAIN DEVELOPMENT Motorsport Australia club volunteers will have the opportunity for some personal development through the Motorsport Australia Club Business Workshops program.

The initiative is aimed at helping individuals within Motorsport Australia affiliated clubs to upskill, which can have a number of benefits for their respective clubs.

There will be a range of topics covered in the program with seven different one-hour workshops, five of which will take place over three weeks. The workshops are also free for all participants.

guide to Motorsport Australia Event Entry and the Motorsport Australia National Insurance Program.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

Spanning four months, the first workshop takes place on 14 July and the final one will be held on 17 November.

29 July - Motorsport Australia National Insurance Program – Clubs

Each workshop will take place online and interested participants can register their place online.

Some of the different topics include creating a strategic plan, social media and communication strategies, a

16 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

14 July - Making it easy to be a successful president

25 August - Creating a strategic plan at your club 15 September - Social media and communication strategies for sports clubs 22 September - A guide to Motorsport Australia Event Entry

Register for a free workshop here.

6 October - Facility redevelopment: How to get shovel ready 17 November - Risk management for committees - protecting your people, cash and assets

OFFICIAL PARTNER

MEMBER REWARDS

GET RACE READY WITH MOTUM SIMULATION Motum Southbank is open for test drives and driver training. Strap yourself into the MP6 Motorsport Motion Simulator to tune up for the start of the racing season or your next track day.

As used by leading Supercar team Walkinshaw Andretti United, Motum’s patented Motorsport True Motion™ Simulator technology delivers 6DOF as a complete motion profile in a fully immersive VR environment, excelling in peak and sustained G-forces to generate intuitive and accurate motion cues. In addition to its motion offering, Motum provides highly engineered static simulators for motorsport, sim racing, and entertainment.

www.motumsimulation.com 29 Miles Street, Southbank, Vic, 3006 +61 407 898 606 sales@motumsimulation.com

ROB WINS THRILLING HEARTLAND RALLY

18

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Rob Hunt and Jeremy Browne have won the AGL Rally SA - Rally of the Heartland in dramatic fashion as 33 crews from around the country took on the 17-stage event.

Although their final winning margin came in at 45 seconds, it was far closer than it looked as they didn’t steer their Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VI to the lead until the twelfth stage of the rally.

Up until that point, it was the Mercedes 450SLC of Start Bowes and Mark Nelson who led the rally having won the first event’s first six stages – the gap between the dominant Mercedes and second placed Mitsubishi sitting at more than one minute.

However a slow performance from the leaders and a lightning quick run on the next stage from Hunt saw the buffer brought right back in to just one second.

Bowes was able to recover slightly and add to a few more seconds to end up as fastest for leg one, but when Hunt won his second stage for the rally on SS12 by 17 seconds, the momentum for leg two had swung in Hunt’s favour.

From then on, Hunt held firm and took control of the rally, winning two more stages to secure the second leg win and outright honours.

"It's great to win a South Australian state championship round – the last time I would have done that would have been in the 1970s, so it's been a long between drinks,” Hunt said.

“You can never be confident or feel good about your results. We were a bit lucky there in the middle as a thunder storm gave us an advantage in the 4WD. “We also managed to do quite well in the longer stages and claw back some time on Stuart, so the circumstances suited us and allowed us to stay in the hunt.

“Once we hit the final stage and we knew we were in front, we just thought about keeping it tidy rather than

trying to win the stag, which is harder than it sounds too, but we did it.

“It was a pretty good weekend.

Stuart and Mark are good mates and they supported us through our resurrection. It was fun to have an arm wrestle with them and eventually be them. It’s a great feeling to win.”

Remarkably, Jamie Pohlner and Adam Branford rounded out the iconic event’s podium despite being in fifth place and almost four and half minutes off the third placed Matthew Selley and Hamish Hendrick after the penultimate stage.

A win on the final stage in addition to Selley not finishing the stage and the fourth placed Daren Herring and Matthew Woods going almost two minutes slower allowed Pohlner and Branford to sneak into third place right at the death.

In the Classic competition, Andrew and David Travis steered their Nissan Gazelle to a thrilling 15 second victory over Ford Escort 1800 pilots Thomas Dermody and Eoin Moynihan.

It was a battle of the fittest in the class as Bowes originally led the 30 cars until he had that forgettable seventh stage, which opened up the door for Dermody and Moynihan to take the lead.

However team Travis didn’t let up and eventually got their moment with just four stages to go – the duo going half a minute faster than the Ford Escort on the second pass of the long stage to grab the lead, which they held for the rest of the event.

The next round of the Motorsport SA Rally Championship is the PMD Race Products Forest Sprint Rally in Mt Gambier on 13-14 July.

Click here for full results for the AGI Rally of the Heartlands.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 19

SAFETY SUMMIT SUPER SUCCESS The first ever Australian Institute of Motorsport Safety (AIMSS) Motorsport Safety Summit was held earlier this month with a number of high profile guests featuring the summit.

Hosted by RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship host Jessica Dane and opened by FIA President Jean Todt, the online event tackled the biggest safety issues and showcased the latest developments in the sport.

From Formula 1 stars Fernando Alonso, Mark Webber and Romain

Grosjean to Triple Eight Race Team Principal Roland Dane and FIA Steward Garry Connelly, there was plenty of valuable information shared across the day.

A number of important presentations were addressed throughout the summit with motorsport safety developments, rescue and medical topics all covered.

Click here for more information on the Australian Institute of Motorsport Safety.

20 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Confidence no matter what’s around the bend with your community insurance broker and consultant

Talk to us about: Race Track Whole Packages

As motorsport insurance specialists, our team have both the skills and experience to identify and address risks that are uniquely associated with motorsport.

Our Race Track Whole Packages combines cover for several key risks including Motorsport Liability, Management Liability, Property (with or without track cover), Mobile Machinery, Commercial Motor, Personal Accident so that you can face what’s around the bend with confidence. sport.ajg.com.au

Find out more.

Get in touch with the Gallagher team.

sport@ajg.com.au Terry Berryman 07 3367 5010

Tim Roarty 02 8838 5711

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co (Aus) Limited. AFSL 238812. Cover is subject to the Policy terms and conditions. You should consider if the insurance is suitable for you and read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and our Financial Services Guide (FSG) before making your decision to acquire insurance. These are available on request or at sport. ajg.com.au. REF2782-1020-1.1 MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 21

THE

DESERT AWAITS

22 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Photo: Terry Hill Photography

After almost two years, the wait for the biggest off road event in Australia is almost over with the Tatts Finke Desert Race to run later this month.

A record number of 175 four-wheeled cars will feature in the prestigious event and a number of those will be looking to continue their strong starts to the 2021 BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC) season.

While the first car leaves Alice Springs for Finke on Sunday 13 June, the festivities for the event get underway well before that with the famous street party to once again kick off the race on the Thursday evening.

Not one to tame it down for any occasion, the event then hosts a scrutineering party on Friday evening at the start/finish line allowing fans, spectators and locals the opportunity to see the cars up close again.

With the Cobb & Co Hotel St George 399 having taken place almost three months ago, it seems like a long time since the Championship was last in action, yet crews will be prepping right until the last minute.

Currently leading the way is New South Welshman and rising star – Josh Howells.

After winning his first ever AORC round, Howells and navigator Eric Hume return to the same race they secured their first ever AORC podium – a second place to Jack Rhodes in what ended up being a romantic swansong for the South Australian.

Howells won’t be the only big name to watch out for with Toby Price and Greg Gartner the two other big names looking for a big result.

On Saturday, crews will be vying for the ever important starting position with Prologue before the build-up finally reaches its climax and the cars begin their journey down to Finke and then back up on the Monday morning.

It's an event that has held plenty of prestige over the years with many drivers making names of themselves on this course, while some have even moved to legend status on the back of their performances.

Photos: Terry Hill Photography

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 23

“I've won it before, and would love to do it again...

I'll just need everything to go my way” - Greg Gartner

Photo: Terry Hill Photography

24 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

For Price, he remains a mystery.

Someone clearly capable of going the distance, he has won the event on a bike multiple times yet completing the feat in a car constantly eludes the famous Queenslander.

He has come close many times but could this be the year that he finally makes history and becomes a rare individual to do it both on a bike and in a car.

The Tatts Finke Desert Race takes place in Alice Springs and Finke on 11-14 June.

Making his grand return to the Northern Territory having not raced there since 2018, this year marks the 10-year anniversary of Gartner’s first and only four wheeled ‘King of the Desert’ title and the Victorian is keen to experience it again and add more points to his AORC charge.

Click here to find out more about the event.

2021 SHANNONS MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA CHAMPIONSHIPS CALENDAR Round 1 Phillip Island, Victoria, February 2021 TBC* Round 2 Bathurst 6 Hour, New South Wales, 2-4 April

"Honestly for us, our whole year revolves around Finke and doing well during those three days. I have won it before, and would just love to do it again, but it's an extremely difficult task and I'll need everything to go my way," Gartner said.

Round 3 Sydney Motorsport Park, New South Wales, 1-2 May Round 4 Morgan Park, Queensland, 25-27 June

"With that said, I've had a really good start to the AORC so far and my major objective will be to score points and build on that St George result. If I can get a top five finish, I will be stoked.

"Of course, I would love to experience winning this incredible event again, however I've never won the Australian title, so there is lots riding on this race."

Click here to view the entry list.

Round 5 Sandown International Raceway, Victoria, 10-12 September Round 6 The Bend Motorsport Park, South Australia, 15-17 October Photos: Speed Shots Photography

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 37 25

Photos: Red CentreNATS

POPULAR RED CENTRENATS OFFICIAL CALLOUT The extremely popular Red CentreNATS is on the lookout for volunteer officials.

number of motorsport activations including street parades, biker games, burnouts, drags and grass driving.

Taking place in Alice Springs this September, the event sees the nation’s best street machines take part in a

Motorsport fans are encouraged to get involved as volunteer officials with a wide variety of roles available to officials bearing all kinds of experience.

The event will help individuals develop their skills as officials and get a taste of one of Alice Spring’s most beloved events.

Outside of the benefits of upskilling, volunteer officials will also have the

opportunity to experience the event with two free passes, receive free meals and merchandise to attend the event.

All participants are encouraged to be Motorsport Australia officials with the chance to attend a special welcome and training night on the Tuesday ahead of the event.

It’s an event not to be missed as Alice Springs comes alive through a celebration of the automotive industry at its finest.

The 2021 Red CentreNATS takes place in Alice Springs on 3-5 September.

Click here to become a Red CentreNats Official.

26

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

R E A D Y

H I G H

T O

P E R F O R M A N C E

R A C E

C U S T O M

2 0 2 1

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!

s-trend .com . a u / 03 9 0 7 7 2 63 8

RICCIARDO’S RACERS TO RETURN IN JULY Motorsport Australia’s Ricciardo’s Racers junior development initiative will continue next month with a further three events to take place across two states.

The program, which is designed for children aged 12–17 and is advocated by Formula 1 star Daniel Ricciardo, helps participants understand the basics of motorsport and build their skills through fun exercises in exciting cars provided by Motorsport Australia.

Under the guidance of experienced instructors and high profile drivers, the workshops contain a mix of theory and practical challenges, which includes

28

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Photos: Motorsport Australia Media

participants enjoying activities behind the wheel on a skidpan course.

Three events have already taken place in 2021 with Victoria having hosted the first two at METEC Bayswater and the iconic Sandown International Raceway, before Sydney Motorsport Park was the most recent with a special night event.

In July, Sydney Motorsport Park will once again hold another edition of Ricciardo’s Racers, while Tasmanians will get the opportunity to take part with both Baskerville Raceway and Symmons Plains to host events at the start of the month.

Costing just $149 for a four-hour session, Ricciardo’s Racers is the perfect way for young aspiring drivers to build the foundations of a career in motorsport, or just gain skills and confidence behind the wheel.

REMAINING 2021 CALENDAR 3 July - Baskerville, TAS 4 July - Symmons Plains, TAS 18 July - Sydney Motorsport Park, NSW 7 August - Norwell, QLD 8 August - Norwell, QLD 11 September - Sandown Raceway, VIC 17 October - The Bend Motorsport Park, SA

Click here to register for Ricciardo’s Racers.

23 October - Perth Airport, WA 24 October - Perth Airport, WA 8 November (Night Event) Sydney Motorsport Park, NSW

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 29

CROCKER ENJOYS PERFECT RUN IN SXS Cody Crocker has made it two wins from two outings in the 2021 Kincrome SXS Motorsport Australia Championship after taking out a thrilling victory in the third round at Kooralbyn.

In a round that had huge ramifications on the championship standings, Crocker and co-driver Greg Foletta battled hard throughout both 100km races – their consistency eventually rewarded with a 40 second victory over Zac Marsh and Travis Rosewarn.

Simon Evans and co-driver Ryan Preston were on track to claim their first victory of the 2021 season after going fastest in race one before a loose throttle connection in the second race saw him lose valuable time.

Dropping down on the time sheets after having to pull over and quickly fix his issues, Evans recovered nicely to come away with a podium place and a good haul of points.

Following on round, Crocker currently sits in

“To have two wins from our two races puts us in a very good position” - Cody Crocker

Photos: Felicity Thompson

30 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

ROUND THREE TOP 10 1. Cody Crocker/ Greg Foletta: 18 Laps 2. Zac Marsh/ Travis Rosewarne: 18 Laps 3. Simon Evans/ Ryan Preston: 17 Laps 4. Steve Henry/ Steve Walton: 17 Laps 5. James Cook/ Mitch Aucote: 17 Laps 6. Chris Collins/ Erika Savage: 14 Laps 7. Tony Ross/ Jason Chipp: 14 Laps 8. Eden Evans/ Shannon Jennings: 12 Laps 9. Jackson Evans/ Claudia Evans: 10 Laps 10. Trevor Finck/ Tyler Fitzgerald: 10 Laps

CHAMPIONSHIP TOP 10 1. Stephen Henry - 286 2. Simon Evans - 284 3. Trevor Finck - 274 =4. Jackson Evans - 270 =4. Chris Collins - 270 6. Eden Evans - 250 7. Cody Crocker - 200 8. Mathew Keen - 170 9. James Cook - 166 10. Jake Williams - 156 Photos: Felicity Thompson

seventh place on the standings and a fair way off Evans and Henry, but remains confident of his overall position and was thrilled with his round two win.

“I have to be pretty happy with that result because only four rounds of the seven count and to have two wins from our two races puts us in a very good position,” Crocker said.

“Looking at the leaderboard now, it might not look like we are, but we’re possibly in the best position to be in.

“As for the weekend, we were part of the second group and in the first race, the track had been smashed by the likes of Simon and Jackson Evans, and had become much slower, which put us at a disadvantage.

“In the second race, It was good to be in the second group as we noticed a fair few drivers were getting flat tyres

in similar sports, so we were able to take note and to know where we could be careful.

“We didn’t get complacent or take it easy, but we just didn’t take unnecessary risks and with Greg being an experienced co-driver, we had really good pace notes and knew where we were at in terms of timings too.

As Crocker, Henry and Evans all enjoyed productive weekends, the same couldn’t be said for first-year driver Trevor Finck and 2019 reigning champion Jackson Evans, Finck dropped below Evans on the standings after both only finished 10 laps – a mistake in the second race for the latter costing him dearly.

It’s a two month break for the Kincrome SXS Motorsport Australia Championship now with the next round to take place in St Helens, Tasmania on 7 August.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 31

BATES' GOLDEN RUN WITH QUEENSLAND CLEAN SWEEP

Photo: CH Images

32 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Harry Bates and John McCarthy dominated last month’s Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland to continue their perfect start to the 2021 RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (ARC) season.

With 12 stages spread across two heats and around 160 competitive kilometres on roads in Gympie having very rarely been run on, there was plenty of anticipation surrounding the sunshine state’s first ARC event since 2016.

While there was some unfamiliarity in the event itself, it was a familiar sight in terms of the results as Bates and McCarthy proved too good for the rest of the field, steering their Toyota GR Yaris AP4 to a clean sweep of stage wins.

Their perfect form saw them comfortably secure the first heat by one minute over Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia teammates Lewis Bates and Anthony McLoughlin.

The battle for the final spot of the heat’s podium went right down to the wire as a number of crews in the running for the spot, but in the end it went to the returning Molly Taylor and Malcolm Read in the Orange Motorsport Engineering Subaru WRX. Just one second behind the 2016 ARC Champion was young star Arron Windus – the Victorian guiding his Western Victorian Crane Trucks Subaru WRX alongside Daniel Brkic to a well-deserved fourth place, having picked up a number of a top three stage times.

“It’s a very special feeling getting the clean sweep.

We've tried a few times and fallen short by one stage” Photos: CH Images

- Harry Bates

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 33

As a result of a breathtaking win, Taylor also came away with White Wolf Constructions ARC Production Cup honours ahead of Windus.

as the weekend went on – the Tasmanian finishing Sunday’s six stages as the fourth fastest in the field after finishing ninth in Heat 1.

stage. To finally have it under the belt is nice. Probably a dumb goal to have in the back of mind but it was a goal nonetheless,” Harry said.

In Heat 2, Windus continued to show how much he has developed into a contender this year, eventually finishing the six stages in second place ahead of Lewis Bates and McLoughlin, while Taylor and Read were unable to finish the rally.

However the day, and ultimately the event, belonged to Harry Bates and John McCarthy as they overcame a radiation issue to win the heat’s six stages, including the Elysian Energy Power Stage, and clean swept the event as a whole.

“I had to dig deep. Arron and Lewis and other guys like Clayton Hoy were close on certain stages. There was not any point where I could take my foot off the pedal and that was the key to getting the stage wins.

Staying committed all weekend.

Hyundai Dealer Team’s Marcus Walkem enjoyed his return to the national stage, improving significantly

“It’s a very special feeling getting the clean sweep. We have tried a few times and fallen short by one

“We developed a small issue with the radiator before the third stage today, but the Neal Bates Motorsport team

Photos: CH Images

34

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

fixed it during the Service and it held through for the rest of the day.”

Despite finishing Heat 2 in third place, Lewis Bates finished the overall event in second place – making it a Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia one-two, while Windus finished with his first podium and with top honours in the White Wolf Constructions ARC Production Cup over Clayton Hoy and Erin Kelly.

Local talents Ryan Williams and Brad Jones ended the event with both heat wins in the Shamrock

Haulage ARC 2WD Cup and the ARC Junior Cup, while debutant Max McRae finished both classes behind Williams on the outright podium.

Watch the highlights from the Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland via 7plus.

ACCENT BENCHTOPS RALLY QUEENSLAND TOP THREE 1. Harry Bates/John McCarthy 2. Lewis Bates/Anthony McLoughlin 3. Arron Windus/Daniel Brkic

WHITE WOLF CONSTRUCTIONS ARC PRODUCTION CUP TOP THREE 1. Arron Windus/Daniel Brkic 2. Clayton Hoy/Erin Kelly 3. Chris Higgs/Steve Fisher

ARC JUNIOR CUP TOP THREE 1. Ryan Williams/Brad Jones 2. Max McRae/Max Kierans 3. Ryan Poel/Rebekah Cutting

ARC 2WD CUP TOP THREE 1. Ryan Williams/Brad Jones 2. Max McRae/Max Kierans 3. Dean Ridge/Hugh Taylor

Click here for the full results from the Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland.

Photos: CH Images

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 35

ELYSIAN ENERGY ADDING POWER TO ARC

Elysian Energy became the Power Stage naming rights partner for two RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship rounds last month – with the first event being the Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland.

Elysian Energy offers simple plans and everyday savings for its customers in Victoria, South-East Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia. The electricity retailer doesn’t charge any connection fees, exit fees or payment processing fees, meaning you’ll be getting a great price based only on the electricity you use, with a no lock in contract.

Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia’s Harry Bates and John McCarthy took out the Elysian Energy Power Stage in Queensland, having repeated their efforts from Canberra.

Elysian Energy will once again be on display during the Les Walkden Enterprises Rally Tasmania in Launceston.

Click here to watch the Elysian Energy Power Stage from the Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland.

Photos: CH Images

36 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Photo: MTR Images

SHANNONS AT MORGAN PARK POSTPONED The upcoming Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships round at Morgan Park will now take place on 13-15 August.

Originally slated for 25-27 June, ongoing border restrictions mean the event will be pushed back until August to allow all competitors, fans and officials to attend the event in Queensland.

Those who have already purchased tickets for the event will be able to use their existing tickets on the new date.

Current ticketholders do not need to do anything to have their existing tickets honoured for the new dates.

Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations Michael Smith said it was pleasing that a new date for the event could be found.

“This round of the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships is one we have been looking forward to for some time, with a unique ‘country round’ feel expected at Morgan Park,” Smith said.

“We obviously are disappointed that we can’t hold this round of the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships in June, however we are delighted to be able to secure a new date in August to put on a great show for competitors and fans alike.

“Motorsport Australia is working closely with Porsche, the Australian Racing Group and all our loyal categories to work on a track schedule for the new date and will release details of the full line up shortly, but we are hopeful everyone can join us as originally planned.

the Warwick and District Car Club for their ongoing support of this event and making sure it’s a success for Warwick and the surrounding areas.”

Existing categories will be given the option of taking part in the new dates, with the line up to be finalised in the coming weeks.

Tickets remain on sale for the new date.

Any fans unable to make the new dates will also be able to request a refund.

Click here to secure your tickets for the new date of 13-15 August.

“A big thank you must also go to the Southern Downs Regional Council and

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 37

THREE NEW DRIVERS ENJOY SUPERCARS TOP STEP The 2021 Repco Supercars Championship is beginning to heat up with different drivers having won the previous six races.

Shane van Gisbergen’s win streak came to end in April during the Beaurepaires Tasmania SuperSprint when teammate Jamie Whincup took out the round’s second race, before Chaz Mostert reinstated his credentials as a title contender thanks to his first race win of the year.

With Supercars at The Bend Motorsport Park for the fourth stop of the season, van Gisbergen was unable to win a race as Andre Heimgartner picked up the

maiden win of his Supercars career, along with Kelly Racing’s first for a long time.

The Kiwi wasn’t the only driver to pick up a memorable win as Anton De Pasquale and Cam Waters both got their first victories for the season – the latter notching up the first for his new team, Shell V Power Racing.

Although he didn’t win a race for the weekend, van Gisbergen still remains comfortably on top of the standings by 200 points courtesy of his two podiums in Tailem Bend, while less than half of that splits the second-placed

Photos: EDGE Photographics

Photos: EDGE Photographics

38 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Whincup with Mostert, Davison and Waters for number two position.

Unfortunately, Supercars fans would have been treated to two rounds in the same month, however the Winton Supersprint was postponed due to the most recent COVID-19 lockdown in Victoria.

The round has now been moved to 31 July – 1 August.

The Repco Supercars Championship now turns its attention to the Merlin Darwin Triple Crown at Hidden Valley Raceway on 18-20 June.

Click here for the full results from the round.

RACE 9 TOP THREE 1. Andre Heimgartner 2. Chaz Mostert 3. Anton De Pasquale

RACE 10 TOP THREE 1. Anton De Pasquale 2. Will Davison 3. Shane van Gisbergen

RACE 11 TOP THREE 1. Cam Waters 2. Shane van Gisbergen 3. Will Davison

CHAMPIONSHIP TOP 10 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Shane van Gisbergen - 1112 points Jamie Whincup - 922 Chaz Mostert - 866 Will Davison - 861 Cameron Waters - 848 Mark Winterbottom - 697 Anton De Pasquale - 648 Andre Heimgartner - 646 Nick Percat - 617 Brodie Kostecki - 615

Photos: EDGE Photographics

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 39

Photo: Porsche Newsroom

ELECTRIC PORSCHE TACKLES TARGA TASMANIA

The 29th edition of Targa Tasmania welcomed some very familiar names from the circuit racing with Porsche Paynter Dixon Carrera Cup star Nick McBride and Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge Australian young gun Courtney Prince taking part in the event.

Completing Australia’s most famous tarmac rally in the Porsche tour, the duo made history as they drove the German manufacturer’s brand new electronic vehicle, the Taycan Turbo – marking the first time an electric car ever ran Targa Tasmania’s stages.

It was also a monumental weekend for McBride, who was running the iconic stages for the first time.

"It was an unbelievable experience.

My first time in a Targa, the adrenaline that ran through my body on that first stage was unbelievable,” McBride said.

40 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

“It was also my first experience in the Taycan. It truly drove like a Porsche.

"It was just amazing the way it performs and also with all that torque of the electric engine, as soon as you put your foot down, especially as a passenger when Courtney was driving, your head just went back against the headrest.

“The balance of the car was really stable throughout the stages. The great thing about Porsche is they always challenge you and tell you to drive the cars for the way they’ve been designed. It’s just an overall incredible event."

Click here to follow their experience at Targa Tasmania.

TOUCHING SENTIMENT FROM TARGA CLASSIC WINNERS This year’s Targa Tasmania proved quite a challenging one for many of those due to the tragic death of three competitors.

Following on from the emotional event, a heart-warming display of unprecedented solidarity, two competitors donate their hardearned TARGA trophies to the stage directors who experienced fatal events on their stages.

Peter Gluskie and Samantha Winter took out top honours in the Classic and Classic Outright competitions of the Motorsport Australia TARGA Championship this year and they chose to send their trophies to stage directors Tami Forster and Josh Hill.

“Things have been pretty darn hard for all of us,” Hill said.

“To receive this wonderful gift from two absolutely beautiful competitors just brought tears to our eyes. Thank you Samantha and Peter as we know how hard these trophies are to get."

Forster echoed Hill’s comments and was touched by the act of kindness.

"Targa family is family for life,” Forster added.

“The support has been amazing after such a tragic event this year.

And then to come home to such an amazingly awesome surprise. Thankyou just doesn't seem enough."

“Targa family is family for life”

Upon receiving the trophy, Hill thanked Gluskie and Winter for their gift.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 41

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

42 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 43

THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE PARTNERS

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