Motorsport Australia Speed Read - May 2021

SPEED READ M A Y

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APRIL SUN SETS ON HUGE WEEKEND IN SYDNEY The Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships hosted its third round of 2021 with nine categories taking to the track, watched on by huge crowds and the FIA Girls On Track program.

WHO'S WHO JOINS INAUGURAL AIMSS SAFETY SUMMIT The first ever AIMSS Motorsport Safety Summit will be held in June, with high profile guests tackling the top safety issues in our sport.

MAY UPCOMING STATE EVENTS Check out the upcoming club and state events happening all around the country in the fifth month of the year.

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

SYDNEY MOTORSPORT PARK WELCOMES GIRLS ON TRACK More than 30 eager participants were at SMSP earlier this month to take part in the latest edition of the FIA Girls On Track.

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

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INSURANCE FOR MOTORING ENTHUSIASTS | CALL 13 46 46 FOR A QUOTE | SHANNONS.COM.AU Shannons Pty Limited ABN 91 099 692 636 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 May?

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Who's who joins inaugural AIMSS Safety Summit in '21

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Super Shannons enjoys huge weekend at Sydney

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Motorsport Australia and Burson go round again in 2021

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Sydney Motorsport Park welcomes Girls On Track

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Rust confirmed as next Girls On Track guest

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Racing Together signs up Commonwealth Games medallist

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Sad end to Targa Tasmania

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Classic showing for All Historic Mallala

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Inaugural Rockynats impress on debut

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Victorian clubs received vital Government funding

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Increased engine capacity in AORC

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Training open to Queensland officials in July

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Getting to know Mr Le Mans

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NSW State Championship shines at Sydney

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Mahon continues dominance in Victorian hill climb

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Morgan Park to bring back the memories in May

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Morley enjoys victory in first State Speed Series outing for 2021

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ARC fully in motion after cool Canberra

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ARC to return to the sunshine state this weekend

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Motorsport Australia App available for download

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Supercars shares spoils in epic Tassie battle

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Dusty Alice hosts dramatic SXS hitout

COVER PHOTO

Josh Buchan picked up his first (and later, second) Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series victory at the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships in Sydney.

Photo: Speed Shots 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

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MAY? WHAT'S ON IN

NEW SOUTH WALES AND ACT

7-9 May: Dondingalong Off Road Challenge 8 May: 2021 R3 - Porsche Club NSW Inc Supersprint Championship 8 May: BMW Drivers Club NSW Supersprint Championship R1 8 May: Sprite Car Club of Australia Supersprint - CSCA Series R3 8 May: MGCCN KC2 Dirt and Tar, Day and Night Khanacross 8 May: LBMCCC Motorkhana R2 8-9 May: Mothers First Khanacross 9 May: Khanacross #2 15 May: 2021 National Patios ACT Khanacross Series R2 15 May: Flying Fifth 15-16 May: Tri-Series Lap Dash 15-16 May: Let's Do it Motorkhana - Let's Do It Autocross 15 May: RTDC Twilight Motorkhana R1.2 15 May: CACA – Skidpan Motorkhana (Incorporating Come and Try) 15 May: Drive Like a Girl Rallysprint 16 May: Esses Descent 16 May: MG Car Club Motorkhana 16 May: Sheep Station Rally 16 May: Motorsport Australia Zestino Tyres NSW Supersprint R2 16 May: American Muscle Cars on the Murray Show N Shine 21-23 May: Motorsport Australia NSW Motor Race Championships R3 22 May: 2021 05 Limestone Khanacross 22 May: PCNSW Tony McKnight Motorkhana Championship 2021 R2 23 May: May Come and Try Motorkhana 23 May: MGCCN MK3 Dirt Motorkhana 23 May: FIAT Club Motorkhana R1 23 May: VW Nationals 2021 23 May: Impreza WRX Club Motorkhana Championship R3 26 May: 2021 R2 Porsche Club NSW Inc Supersprint Championship 30 May: Motorsport Australia Zestino NSW Supersprint Championship R3

Photo: Martin Gallard NSW: Flying Fifth - 15 May The Bathurst Light Car Club will take over Mount Panorama later this month with two special events over one busy weekend. First the Flying Fifth will see competitors speed through Conrod Straight in a supersprint, before the famous Esses are used for a hill climb.

Photo: Team Motorkhana NT: 2021 NT Motorkhana Championship R4 - 14 May The 2021 NT Motorkhana Championship heads to the famous Hidden Valley Raceway after three exciting rounds already. Many of the stars taking part in the North Australian Motor Sports Club run event will be hoping for a big result with just three rounds left for the season after this event.

QUEENSLAND

Photo: Townsville City Autosports Club QLD: Mount Stuart Hillclimb Series R2 - 30 May The Townsville City Autosports Club runs the second round of the Mount Stuart Hillclimb Series Round 2 this month with a number of key competitors expected to return, including Round One winner Kerry Cobbing.

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MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

7-9 May: Autumn Historic Warwick 8 May: A Development Day for Tamborine Khanacross 9 May: Rosel Khanacross 9 May: TCAC Khanacross 15-16 May: Chepa Auto Spares 2021 Sprint R2 16 May: HSCCQ Interclub Motorkhana 16 May: Open Sprint R2 16 May: MAC Dirt Sprint R2 20-23 May: Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland 22-23 May: Khanacross/Burnouts 23 May: R5 2021 Club Championship 29-30 May: Qld Hillclimb Championship 29-30 May: FNQ R2 Gravel Khanacross 30 May: Mount Stuart Hillclimb Series R2

SOUTH AUSTRALIA AND NORTHERN TERRITORY

7-9 May: OTR SuperSprint 8-9 May: AGL Rally SA - Rally of the Heartland 9 May: (NT) 2021 Janda Building Prologue Brekkie Bash 9 May: (NT) Alice City Tyrepower Mothers Day Khanacross 14 May: (NT) 2021 NT Motorkhana Championship R4 14-15 May: (NT) Kincrome SXS Motorsport Australia Championship 15-16 May: SEAC Super Series R2 15-16 May: Motorsport Australia SCCSA 2021 State Motor Racing Championship R2 16 May: FNQ R4 Bitumen Khanacross 16 May: MSS Safety 2021 Rally Barrossa 23 May: Motorsport Australia SA Motorkhana Championship R3 29-30 May: (NT) Shannons R2 30-2 May: Richard Bennett Memorial Enduro 30 May: SCCSA 2021 Winter Cup 2 30 May: Ipswich West Moreton Auto Club Open Sprint R3

Photo: B Team Rally Media SA: AGL Rally SA - Rally of the Heartland - 8-9 May The award winning Rally of the Heartland is back, the popular event opening the 2021 Motorsport Australia MRF Tyres SA Rally Championship season with crews to complete more than 450 kilometres. Plenty of highlights, including multiple windfarm stages and brand new sections.

TASMANIA

8 May: Motor Sports Club Of Tasmania Motorkhana 15 May: The Cambridge Sprint 15-16 May: 2021 Tasmanian Circuit Racing Championship 22 May: Blythe Road Rally

Photo: Angryman Photography TAS: Motorsport Australia Tasmanian Circuit Racing Championship - 15-16 May Symmons Plains Raceway once again hosts the Light Car Club of Tasmania and the best circuit drivers in the state for a round of the Motorsport Australia Tasmanian Circuit Championships. Many regular categories will form part of the event, which is free for all spectators.

VICTORIA

Photo: Geelong Motorsports Club VIC: Avalon Khanacross Round 3 - 16 May The Geelong Motorsport Club will host its second event for the month when it runs the third round of its multi-club khanacross series at the Geelong Motorsports Complex. Having already run a motorkhana, the club will be ready to go for another solid khanacross at a track favoured by many competitors.

Photo: Wishart Media WA: 2021 Make Smoking History Forest Rally - 21-23 May Originally scheduled as a round of the 2021 RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship, the uncertainty surrounding WA’s border restrictions meant the event was reduced back to a state round. However, there is still plenty to look forward to about this extremely popular event, which visits many of the Bunbury and Nannup stages made famous by its rich history in the ARC.

8 May: MGCC Geelong Event 4 Motorkhana 8 May: NCCA Group5 R4 Khanacross and Come n Try Khanacross 8 May: AROCA Sandown Sprint 8 May: BCC Twilight Khanacross and Motorkhana 8-9 May: R1 Hi-Tech Oils Drift All Stars Series 8 May: Driver Training / Drift Training 9 May: PAC Khanacross 14-16 May: Motorsport Australia Victorian State Circuit Racing Championships 2021 R3 15 May: 2021 Sheen Panel Services Group Marysville Rally VRC and VCRS 15-16 May: 21 OST 3 Narbethong 15 May: MSCA Super Sprint and R1 Victorian Super Sprint Championship 15 May: Lake Bolac Motorkhana 15-16 May: DSCC 2021Autocross and Khanacross R4 15-16 May: Swan Hill Sporting Car Club Come and Try Days 15 May: METEC Driver Training Session 16 May: Kyneton Car Club Single Car Sprint Wodonga 16 May: Avalon Khanacross R3 22 May: PAC- 2021 VCAS R4 23 May: NGK Victorian Khanacross Championship R3 2021 29-30 May: Truck Assist Winton SuperSprint 29 May: MMSC Come and Try Khanacross 29-30 May: Victorian Motorkhana Championship R5

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

15-16 May: Ernie Hastie Memorial Race and Regularity/Time Challenge Meeting 16 May: WRX Club - Tiger Karts Club Autocross 20 May: Infinite Time Attack 21-23 May: 2021 Make Smoking History Forest Rally

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 5

Photo: Markus Berger / Red Bull Content Pool

Photo: Instagram @fernandoalo_oficial

WHO'S WHO JOINS INAUGURAL AIMSS SAFETY SUMMIT IN '21 The first ever Australian Institute of Motorsport Safety (AIMSS) Motorsport Safety Summit will be held next month, with high profile guests to tackle the biggest safety issues and showcase the latest developments in the sport.

This is an online event that cannot be missed, with information relevant to every driver, co-driver, team member, event organiser and event official.

Mark Webber, Fernando Alonso, Romain Grosjean, Roland Dane and Paul Morris are among the long list of industry stakeholders taking part in the Summit.

The Summit will present a mixture of cutting edge discussions, panel debates and live scenarios, promoting a two-way conversation between presenters and participants.

During the Summit, several feature presentations will cover off the latest

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in motorsport safety developments, rescue and medical topics.

The Summit, to be held online meaning anyone from around the world can attend, will also facilitate a 'Pitch my Project' competition to help new or novel motorsport projects reach an international audience. Competitors will pitch their projects to a panel of leaders in the motorsport industry and safety. The Panel will provide live feedback with the possibility of progressing their pitch further.

AIMSS Chair Garry Connelly said the Summit would be an innovative and interactive event, designed to

Photo: VUE Images / Red Bull Content Pool

Photo: Instagram @grosjeanromain

“The Summit will help showcase the skills, technology and ingenuity of those working tirelessly to improve safety in our sport” - Garry Connelly, AIMSS Chair

highlight the impressive technology and work being undertaken.

"The AIMSS Motorsport Safety Summit is a wonderful initiative that will help further showcase the skills, technology and ingenuity of those working tirelessly to improve safety in our sport," Connelly said.

"The Summit has attracted an international faculty representing the Asia Pacific region who are all invested in progressing motorsport safety.

"We are delighted to be welcoming some of the biggest names in motorsport to this Summit. They all have a passion for making motorsport the safest it can be and their unique insights will be highly informative.

"We are also excited to be providing an opportunity for those with a great idea to share their innovations through the 'Pitch my Project' initiative. Someone could be sitting on a great idea that will make the sport safer but may have not yet had the opportunity to share it with those who can make it a reality.

Photo: Norwell Motorplex

"The AIMSS Motorsport Safety Summit is sure to be a highlight on the motorsport safety calendar in 2021."

The first ever AIMSS Safety Summit will be held on 1 June, 2021.

Click here to purchase tickets for the online AIMSS Motorsport Safety Summit (AUD$80)

For more information about the AIMSS Motorsport Safety Summit, click here.

Click here to view the full programme.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 7

SUPER SHANNONS ENJOYS HUGE WEEKEND AT SYDNEY The Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships hosted its third round of the season at the start of May with nine categories forming part of the huge schedule.

Not even the fog on the final morning was enough to stop the weekend from putting on a show as almost 10,000 people entered the gates of Sydney Motorsport Park for the three-day event, which featured almost 30 hours of track action.

The main story to come out of the round was Joey Mawson winning

the inaugural VHT S5000 Australian Drivers' Championship title and taking home the prestigious Motorsport Australia Gold Star as a result.

The New South Welshman had a strong start to the weekend, qualifying in pole and finishing the first race in second place, before enduring a very nervy run in the main feature race where he went off track.

Despite the scare, Mawson managed to finish sixth and secure the title.

There was plenty of other action to entertain the fans

Photos: Speed Shots Photography

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Photos: Speed Shots Photography

over the weekend, including the exciting battles going on in each category – Shane Smollen in the MRF Tyres Australian Production Cars Series the only one to truly dominate the weekend.

Chris Perini may have also won every race in his category of the RA Cup, however he never had it his own way in either two races and was challenged right to the end.

Others like Ryan Hansford in the Gulf Western Oil Touring Car Series, Josh Buchan in the Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series and Christian Pancione in the Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge Australia came close to a perfect weekend, but neither could secure a clean sweep of wins as they lost in the final race.

Aaron Seton and Nathan Herne continued their enticing battle in the National Trans Am Series, with both grabbing race wins – a

measly four points separating them at the end of the round, just two more than what was the difference in the lead up.

Teenager Blake Purdie emerged as one of the title contenders in the Australian Prototype Series, despite not winning the round, while the series he used to race in, the Battery World Aussie Racing Cars Super Series saw two different winners in its races.

Unfortunately both series were scheduled to have three races, but lost one each due to the fog.

It’s a bit of a break now for the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships, which returns next month at Morgan Park Raceway on 25–27 June.

Click here for tickets for Round 4 at Morgan Park.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 9

SHANNONS MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA CHAMPIONSHIPS ROUND RESULTS Photos: Speed Shots Photography

AUSTRALIAN PROTOTYPE SERIES 1. Jason Makris 2. John-Paul Drake 3. Blake Purdie

RA CUP 1. Chris Perini 2. Siegfried Fuhrmeiste 3. Stephen Champion

BATTERY WORLD AUSSIE RACING CARS SUPER SERIES 1. Kody Garland =2. Nicholas Simmons =2. Tom Hayman

SUPERCHEAP AUTO TCR AUSTRALIA SERIES

Race 1. Owen Kelly Race 2. Nathan Herne Race 3. Aaron Seton

GULF WESTERN OIL TOURING CAR SERIES

Race 1. Josh Buchan Race 2. Josh Buchan Race 3. Michael Caruso

Race 1. Ryan Hansford Race 2. Ryan Hansford Race 3. Steve Johnson Trophy Race. Jim Pollicina

VHT S5000 AUSTRALIAN DRIVERS’ CHAMPIONSHIP

PORSCHE MICHELIN SPRINT CHALLENGE AUSTRALIA

1. James Golding 2. Luis Leeds 3. Nathan Herne

1. Christian Pancione 2. Ryan Suhle 3. Bayley Hall

MRF TYRES AUSTRALIAN PRODUCTION CARS SERIES 1. Shane Smollen 2. Cem Yucel 3. Jake Camilleri

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NATIONAL TRANS AM SERIES

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

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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

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Photo: Speed Shots Photography

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA AND BURSON GO ROUND AGAIN IN 2021 Motorsport Australia is proud to announce its partnership with Burson Auto Parts has been extended.

As Australia’s trade specialist supplier of automotive aftermarket parts, accessories and workshop equipment, Burson has been a big supporter of Australian motorsport at grassroots level for many years.

Last year, the company expanded its involvement with Motorsport Australia, signing on as the official automotive retail partner for the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships.

As Australian motorsport continues to grow around the country, Burson Auto Parts’ Anthony Hughes was proud to resign with Motorsport Australia for 2021.

“It’s been a few years that Burson has been with Motorsport Australia and we see supporting foundation motorsport in this country to be a really important privilege for Burson,” Hughes said.

“To translate that into supporting everyone from the organisation to volunteers and scrutineers and people in racing.

“Grassroots, TCR and all of the categories that Motorsport Australia manages throughout the country, it’s a very important thing to do and we’re very proud to continue our sponsorship with Motorsport Australia.”

Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations Michael Smith echoed Hughes’ comments and was pleased Burson would continue its association.

“It means a lot to have Burson extending its partnership with Motorsport Australia,” Smith added.

“Burson has been a long time partner for us and for the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships - they help us do what we do,” Smith added.

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“Supporting foundation motorsport in this country is a really important privilege for Burson” - Anthony Hughes, Burson Auto Parts

“Everything from supporting volunteers, officials and grassroots motorsport all the way through to the Championships at a national level – it’s terrific to see.

“We’re just proud to be continuing the partnership with Burson.” `

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Photo: Turn 7 Media

SYDNEY MOTORSPORT PARK WELCOMES GIRLS ON TRACK More than 30 schoolgirls were at Sydney Motorsport Park during the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships event earlier this month to take part in the latest edition of the FIA Girls On Track.

media workshops, there was lots of entertainment for the young participants to enjoy.

In its second event for the year, the program welcomed girls aged between 12 and 18 as they completed a range of activities to help them gain an understanding of the different elements that make up motorsport.

As at every Girls On Track session, there were plenty of ambassadors on hand to guide the girls through the day, including senior official Jessica Nicholson, Battery World Aussie Racing Cars Super Series’ driver Charlotte Poynting, Red Bull Racing engineer Romy Mayer and Supercars Media journalist Charlie Bullis.

From pit stop and STEM challenges to time on the simulator and

Triple Eight Racing Team Co-Owner Jessica Dane and 2016 RSEA Safety

“It’s probably the most fun that I have had all year” - Zara Roberts, FIA Girls On Track participant

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Motorsport Australia Rally Champion Molly Taylor also took a break from their Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships television duties to make special guest appearances during the event.

FIA Girls On Track ambassadors themselves, the duo spoke with the participants and gave them an insight into their successful careers.

For Taylor, FIA Girls On Track is an imperative program that is crucial to giving young girls a chance to experience all facets of motorsport.

“I think it’s very important to be involved in Girls On Track,” Taylor said.

“What we’re doing is really encouraging females who may not have had any exposure to motorsport to come along and get involved, see what the different roles are in the sport and providing that door opening experience.

“It can be really crucial to their future career decision for them to know motorsport can be an option.

“We have a bunch of stages showing that it’s not just about driving, there are options to be a driver of course,

but there’s also mechanics and media to all the logistics in a race team. There could be something that builds their interest in the sport “Motorsport is a fantastic industry. It’s a community of people that is really like a family. So many facets that go into motorsport. It’s an awesome community to be a part of.”

One of the participants, Zara Roberts attended Girls On Track for the first time in Sydney and thoroughly enjoyed being

Photos: Turn 7 Media

“It’s probably the most fun that I have had all year,” Roberts said.

“I already knew some of the sport, but I learned that you don’t need to be a boy to have fun on tracks and that no matter what your gender or age is, there is always something you can do in motorsport.

walk around Sydney Motorsport Park and see the live action, as well as see all nine competing categories up close.

The next FIA Girls On Track events in Australia will be held in Victoria at the Port Melbourne Go-Kart Track on 3 June and Wodonga TAFE the following day.

“I’d like to be a race car driver one day. Anything that has four wheels and is really fun.”

Following the completion of the program, all 30 participants and their parents got free entry into the paddock and race track where they were able to

Click here for more information on the 2021 FIA Girls On Track program.

RUST CONFIRMED AS NEXT FIA GIRLS ON TRACK GUEST The online FIA Girls On Track Instagram live sessions, presented

by D2N Technology Solutions, return this month with the series welcoming a familiar face to motorsport fans. carsales Consumer Editor Nadine Armstrong is back on hosting duties with popular media personality Greg Rust to feature as the special guest.

With a wealth of experience in motorsport, the duo will answer questions from followers, as well as discuss Rust’s highly successful career in the sport.

Rust has spent decades in the industry as commentator, reporter and presenter on major tv networks such Network Ten, the Nine Network and SBS, to name a few.

Throughout the years, Rust commentated on the Repco Supercars Championship, had a key hosting role on the iconic motorsport show,

RPM and most recently, as well as being a part of the 2021 Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships’ Seven Network coverage.

A father of two daughters and a fan favourite, Rust has been instrumental in helping showcase motorsport to the Australian public.

Previous guests to appear on Motorsport Australia’s online FIA Girls On Track program include Triple Eight Racing’s Jess Dane, 2016 Rally Champion Molly Taylor, Erebus Motorsport’s Shannen Kiely, Formula 1 presenter Rosanna Tennant and most recently, Motorsport Australia official Jessica Nicholson.

Viewers can submit questions to Rust and Armstrong during the live session, or in advance by commenting on related posts across social media.

The next edition of the online FIA Girls On Track program, presented

by D2N Technology Solutions takes place at 4pm AEST on Thursday, 13 May on Motorsport Australia’s Instagram channel.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 15

Photo: Chantel Collins

RACING TOGETHER SIGNS UP COMMONWEALTH GAMES MEDALLIST The Racing Together program has received a major boost ahead of its second race meeting next month with beach volleyball champion Taliqua Clancy joining as a mentor.

The Commonwealth Games silver medallist has also agreed to take on a role as a Director on the program’s Board, becoming the first indigenous member to do so.

The program, created to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teenagers get involved in motorsport, selected 10 indigenous teenagers from the Brisbane region last year and helped them build a low-cost Hyundai Excel car, which they are running in this year’s Series X3 Queensland Series.

Having made a name for herself in beach volleyball, Clancy has a wealth of experience in the sport, a highlight being the first indigenous Australian beach volleyball player to represent her country at an Olympic Games when she competed at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Clancy has also had a lot of success throughout her career, winning a silver medal at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games and a bronze medal at the 2019 World Championships in 2019, as well as a host of gold medals in beach volleyball world tours.

The Queenslander is now preparing to take on this year’s Tokyo Olympics alongside

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Mariafe Artacho Del Solar - the duo currently ranked fifth in the world.

Racing Together co-founder Monique Connelly was thrilled to have Clancy as part of the team.

“As one of Australia’s most successful indigenous sports people, Taliqua will be an invaluable addition to the Board as the Racing Together project continues to develop, and an inspirational mentor to our young team members,” Connelly said.

Clancy will serve on the Racing Together Board alongside a number of high-profile individuals, including founders Garry Connelly AM and Monique Connelly, Supercar team bosses Ryan Story, Paul Morris and Roland Dane and former RACQ Chief Executive Officer Ian Gillespie AM. The team had its first ever race meeting in March at Morgan Park as part of the Motorsport Australia Queensland Circuit Championships and will return to Warwick for the second round on 5-6 June.

Click here for more information on the Racing Together Program.

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Photo: Otherside Productions/Wishart Media

SAD END TO TARGA TASMANIA

Eddie Maguire has won the final round of the Motorsport Australia Targa Championship season.

With around 250 cars entered across both touring and competitive groups, Maguire and co-driver Zak Brakey were a cut above the rest, winning 12 of the event’s 37 stages.

After Jason and John White crashed out on day one, Maguire and Brakey were elevated to the lead, where they stayed for the remainder of the six day event, steering their 2016 Dodge Viper to a two-minute victory over Angus Kennard and Ian Wheeler in a 2015 Nissan GT-R.

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MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

lost their lives when their 2019 Porsche 911 GT3 crashed into a tree.

Immediately following on from the incident, Targa downgraded all remaining stages to touring, which left Maguire and Brakey as the winners.

That incident followed the death of competitor Shane Navin, who sadly lost his life when he and co-driver Glenn Evans crashed on the Mt Arrowsmith stage on Friday morning.

While Evans walked away from the crash, Navin was unable to be revived by attending medics.

Unfortunately the Tasmanians’ long awaited victory was overshadowed by the tragic loss of three competitors.

Speaking after the second incident, TARGA Australia chief executive Mark Perry was understandably devastated.

On the final day of the event, Leigh Mundy and co-driver Dennis Neagle

“This has been a devastating few days for the Targa family,” Perry said.

A WORD FROM THE CEO Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca expressed his condolences to the competitors killed during TARGA, which led to a special Investigatory Tribunal being established.

Under Motorsport Australia’s National Competition Rules (NCR), the CEO has the authority to establish the Tribunal, which will investigate all aspects of the incidents and provide recommendations to the Motorsport Australia Board.

Garry Connelly AM, Chair of the Australian Institute of Motor Sport Safety (AIMSS) will Chair the Tribunal, while four-time Motorsport Australia Rally Championship winner Neal Bates and FIA International Gold Steward Matthew Selley will be Tribunes.

The Tribunal has since convened and accepted its terms of reference, with an expectation of its recommendations to be given to the Motorsport Australia Board by the end of 2021.

“On behalf of everyone at Motorsport Australia, we extend our condolences to the families and friends of those competitors who tragically lost their lives while competing at Targa Tasmania,” Arocca said after Targa Tasmania.

“We also extend our sympathies to the wider Targa and motorsport community impacted in recent days, including our officials. This is a difficult time for the entire motorsport family and we continue to offer our support and guidance to all.

“Today our thoughts and deepest condolences go to Shane’s, Leigh’s and Dennis’ family and friends. “(All three) loved Targa and we knew them so well, which makes their passing so difficult for everyone in our community.

“They will be sorely missed by us all.”

For Maguire, the win was a difficult one to acknowledge given the circumstances.

“It’s not the feeling we thought we’d get as we had been working 30 years for this,” Maguire said.

“I was my son Hunter’s age (four) when the first TARGA Tasmania was on and it has been a dream to win this since then.

“It’s great to do it with Zak who is a good mate. We went to primary school together.

“My service crew, mum and dad and Jason White have been amazing.

I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for Jason, he’s a great mentor.

“I also want to offer my condolences to the family and friends of the people we have lost yesterday and today.”

DUTTON GARAGE OVERALL TOP 5 1.

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“Motorsport Australia remains in close contact with the event organisers and Tasmania Police, and is committed to working closely with other relevant government authorities as they also investigate these incidents.

Click here to view a summary of the tribunal's first meeting.

Ed Maguire/Zak Brakey Angus Kennard/Ian Wheeler +1:57s Trevor Macleod/Steve Glenney +2:37s Tony Quinn/Kate Catford +6:53s Jeff Morton/Daymon Nicoli +11:53s

Click here to view the final results from the 2021 Targa Tasmania.

Photo: Otherside Productions /Wishart Media

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 19

Photos: Bob Taylor

CLASSIC SHOWING FOR ALL HISTORIC MALLALA Around 125 competitors have featured in the Sporting Car Club of South Australia’s Action Line Marking All Historic Mallala, helping it to be a raging success.

a jam packed weekend of track action, the many spectators and historic vehicle fans who attended Mallala Motorsport Park were treated to a brilliant spectacle.

In what was a great showcase of vehicles and class racing across

With over 16 categories spread across nine different fields, there was plenty of drama taking place as each grid enjoyed four heats, sprints or races – the biggest field being the Supersprint where 24 competitors took part.

There was no shortage of highlights all weekend, from the country's three

20 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

remaining F5000 MR8’s on track together for the first time to the Sports Sedans putting on a show and the Group K and L cars using one of four races to battle it out for the Don Fraser Memorial Trophy – a race won by Derek Foster in the Cooper JAP Mk6.

Despite Foster winning the special race, Michael Fraser was awarded the weekend’s Don Fraser Trophy – one of seven perpetual trophies to be handed out at the conclusion of the meeting.

Other notable winners saw Neil Richardson from the joint Formula Ford, Formula Vee and Formula Junior field awarded the Driver of the Meeting, while Adam Smith was awarded Farmer of the Year.

Photos: Bob Taylor

On top of the non-stop racing taking place, there was the Show and Shine where many vintage and classic cars were on display for the crowd to see up close and personal. Taking out the top prize for the most impressive car was Dale Smith and 1966 Shelby G. “Once again, there was lots to be proud of from this event, especially the amount of entries taking part and the quality of cars that were involved.

Approximately half of the field were interstate competitors who have supported this event for many years,” event organiser Melissa Rees said.

“We had perfect weather, there were loads of spectators and the

competition was fierce so it was just a fantastic weekend overall.

“It was also great to reward multiple individuals with the perpetual trophies. The Tim Kuchel Memorial Trophy was presented for the first time to the Group M and O field competitors, so congratulations to Sean Whelan for winning that.

“A big thank you to all officials, competitors and fans for playing their role in this event and we’re really looking forward to the next one.”

PERPETUAL TROPHY WINNERS Farmer of the Year Adam Smith Driver of the Meeting Neil Richardson Jack Scott Memorial Gary Brock Don Fraser Award Michael Fraser Kuchel Award Sean Whelan Clem Smith Award Simon Pfitzner Show and Shine Winner Dale Smith

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 21

INAUGURAL ROCKYNATS IMPRESS ON DEBUT After a highly successful inaugural Rare Spares Rockynats in Rockhampton earlier this month, event organisers Summernats and the Rockhampton Regional Council have confirmed it will return to the Central Queensland town again in 2022.

town offered plenty of entertaining activations to spectators, creating a festival-like experience through trade shows, exhibitions, food vendors, rides and attractions the whole family could enjoy.

Taking place at the start of the month, the Rare Spares Rockynats featured a huge collection of more than 1000 cars and 300 bikes participating in multiple different events such as cruising, street parades, burnouts, street drags, show ‘n’ shines, drifting and the ever-popular Thunder Run.

At the end of the event, a special awards ceremony took place, recognising the efforts of some of the festival’s most prolific acts, including Daryl O’Sullivan in his 1968 Holden HK Ute taking out the People’s Choice Award and Paul Hart in his 1967 Ford Fairmont Sedan being crowned the first ever Rockynats Champion for the event.

In addition to the exciting motorsport competitions, Rockhampton came to life throughout the event as the

Collectively, Rockynats winners took home a total prize pool of $70,000 in cash and prizes.

22 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Winners on the burnout pad also included 2004 Holden One Tonne Ute driver Peter Adams taking out the Burnout Championship award, while the title of Burnout Master went to Warren Gersekowski in his 1971 Holden HG Ute 1TUFHG. In the drag racing competition, Shane Page secured the Pro Drag Racing Champion title in his 1988 Holden Calais Sedan and Jye Core in his 1970 Valiant VG Safari Wagon took home the title of Street Drag Racing Champion.

Summernats now turns its focus to the heralded Red CentreNATS in Alice Springs on 3-5 September.

Photos: Rare Spares Rockynats

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VICTORIAN CLUBS RECEIVED VITAL GOVERNMENT FUNDING Eleven Victorian Motorsport Australia affiliated clubs have been recipients of Government grants as part of the State Government’s Community Motorsport Program.

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.

Part of the Government’s $7.4 million Racing into a New Era for Motorsport program, the grants in the Community Motorsport Program’s first round were split into two categories – Motorsport Club Assistance and Infrastructure Upgrades and Equipment.

The latter category saw four Victorian clubs successful in their applications, which grants funding to clubs to help them buy equipment or with minor and major infrastructure developments.

The largest grant was awarded to the MG Car Club Victoria which received $494,894 to upgrade the famous Rob Roy Hill Climb facilities, including resurfaced roadways and construction of a new undercover area.

Other recipients of financial support between $30,000 and $50,000 were the Pakenham Auto Club for its Motorsport Timing System, the Western District Car Club to purchase a tractor and mower for the Geelong Motorsports Complex and the Ararat Car Club, which will use the funding to upgrade its Armco safety barriers.

“We are absolutely over the moon with this outcome and are very grateful to Motorsport Australia and the Andrews’ Government” - Kay Herlihy, MG Car Club Victoria President

24 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

After receiving the green light for almost half a million dollars, the MG Car Club Victoria’s President Kay Herlihy was delighted with the result of the club’s funding request.

“We are absolutely over the moon with this outcome and are very grateful to Motorsport Australia and the Andrews’ Government for the opportunity to help us get this project underway,” Herlihy said.

“This funding goes a long way in helping us upgrade one of the world’s oldest hill climb tracks, ensuring Rob

Roy will continue to be one of the most iconic tracks for many more years to come.

“There is no denying that it took a lot of time and effort to put this application together, but to receive the amount of funding that we did makes it all worthwhile. Along with the rest of the club’s members, I am ecstatic with the result and could not be happier.”

Victorian clubs wanting to upgrade their facilities can still apply for the Infrastructure and Equipment Grant, which closes in July.

Ararat Car Club

The Motorsport Club Assistance grant saw a further seven clubs also receive funding for programs across three different streams.

The Pakenham Auto Club was among seven clubs successful in obtaining funding for the stream focused on Safety and Operational equipment.

Other clubs to receive funding under this stream included the Phillip Island Auto Racing Club, the BMW Drivers Club Melbourne and the Victorian Fire and Rescue Squad.

Marque Sports Car Association Photo: Bruce Astbury

The BMW Car Club of Victoria received financial support for its initiative to boost women’s participation, while the Marque Sports Car Association Victoria joined the HSV Owners Club of Victoria Incorporating HDT as recipients for funding to assist their events and activities.

The Motorsport Club Assistance category remains open for applications until 2022.

Victorian clubs can contact the Motorsport Australia’s Regional Development Executive for Vic and Tasmania, Daniel Gorgievski, for further information on the Community Motorsport Program.

COMMUNITY MOTORSPORT PROGRAM RECIPIENTS Infrastructure Upgrades and Equipment Stream 1: Facility Equipment Pakenham Auto Club Western District Car Club Stream 2: Minor Infrastructure Ararat Car Club Inc. Stream 3: Major Infrastructure MG Car Club Victoria

Club Assistance Stream 1: Safety and Operational Equipment Phillip Island Auto Racing Club Lotus Club Victoria Inc Victorian Fire and Rescue Squad BMW Car Club of Victoria, Incorporated Marque Sports Car Association Victoria Pakenham Auto Club BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca thanked the Victorian Government for its assistance in the program.

Stream 3: Women and Girls Participation

“This is a great initiative by the Andrews’ Government and on behalf of Victorian Motorsport Australia affiliated clubs, I thank them for their support of grassroots motorsport in the state,” Arocca said.

Stream 4: Events and Activities

“These funding opportunities help in many ways and I encourage Victorian clubs to take advantage of the chance to receive funding and assistance for projects that have been in the pipeline.”

MG Car Club Victoria Photo: Twotes Visual Images

“I want to congratulate the 11 clubs that were successful in receiving financial support and I look forward to following the progress of their projects.”

BMW Car Club of Victoria, Incorporated

Marque Sports Car Association Victoria

Click here for more information on the Community Motorsport Program.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 25

2021 SHANNONS MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA CHAMPIONSHIPS CALENDAR

INCREASED ENGINE CAPACITY IN AORC

Round 1 Phillip Island, Victoria, February 2021 TBC*

Photo: Terry Hill Photography

Round 2 Hour, New will allow The Australian Off RoadBathurst 6The increase 2-4 April to run 7 Commission (AORCOM) South Wales, competitors has approved an increase litres in all rounds of the Round 3 engine capacity to a AORC and in State events Sydney Motorsport Park, New number of already existing from 1 January, 2023.

South Wales, 1-2 May classes for 2023.

Round 4 The notice in change will After extensive analysis ofMorgan Park, provide ample lead time Queensland, comparative data, consultation for competitors to prepare 25-27 June and feedback between AORC for the 2023 season. The Round 5 overarching change in specific competitors, organisers and International Off-Road Licence holders,Sandown Pro technical classRaceway, specifications Victoria, 10-12 September Buggy, Performance 2WD, will be detailed shortly. ` Extreme 2WD, Production Round 6 4WD and Extreme 4WD The Bend Motorsport Park, classes will all see an increase South Australia, 15-17 October in engine capacity to 7 litres.

Photos: Speed Shots Photography

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MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 37

TRAINING OPEN TO QUEENSLAND OFFICIALS IN JULY The Queensland State Officiating Panel (SOP) is looking to host multiple training sessions in July and is now taking registrations for officials interested in receiving the training.

There would be a variety of different areas to receive the training sessions, most notably the Silver Module, in which the panel intends to run two sessions for – one in South East Queensland and the other in Townsville.

The panel is also seeking general interest in other areas of officiating,

such as Fire Rescue, Bronze Steward and Scrutineering.

There are multiple benefits for officials to take part in training, the most significant being the opportunity to move into more senior roles at events, as well as enhancing their skills at race meetings.

Click here to contact the Queensland State Officiating Panel

Individuals interested in receiving some free training can contact the Queensland State Officiating Panel via officials@motorsport.org.au.

Photo: Revved Photography

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 27

GETTING TO KNOW MR LE MANS There are a number of races around the world that are considered the highest honours for drivers who win them.

From the highly prestigious Monaco Grand Prix to the United States’ Daytona 500 and Indianapolis 500 to even Australia’s own Bathurst 1000, there is something special about the races steeped in a rich tradition and history.

However there is one that stands out as the most exceptional of the lot – the Le Mans 24hr.

While many drivers would consider themselves lucky to compete in this annual event, there are few who can say that they have won the highly esteemed endurance race and even less who can say they’ve won it multiple times.

The Danish driver had a stellar career behind the wheel and will always be known for his incredible efforts in the famous race year after year – a topic he has in fact written a book about, which is fittingly titled Mr Le Mans.

From the beginning of his career where he was a Scandinavian Karting champion and international Formula 3 champion to when he was a Formula 1 test driver and raced in the DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters).

The book covers also all nine of his Le Mans wins too, including his win on debut in 1997 to the all-conquering era in the early 2000s when he won six titles from 2000-2006, as well as his final victory in 2013.

Presently only one driver will ever be able to say he won one of motorsport’s greatest prizes on nine occasions – six of which were done on consecutive runs.

His name is Tom Kristensen.

Photos: Audi Media Center

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MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Coming out later this month, Mr Le Mans is fascinating book describing his personal reflections on life in and out of the cockpit and the perfect read for any sports enthusiast.

Click here for more information and to pre-order Mr Le Mans.

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NSW STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SHINES AT SYDNEY

The Motorsport Australia NSW Motor Race Championship held its second round for 2021 at Sydney Motorsport Park last month with around 120 competitors taking part in the race meeting.

With eight categories featuring as part of the event and with six of the eight categories running three races, there was plenty of action for fans to enjoy throughout the weekend.

Photos: Priceless Images

30 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

There were categories where drivers dominated such as Micheal Kensella in Formula Vee, Darren Barlow in the Supersports Championship, Zach Bates in Formula Ford and Trevan Spiteri in the Improved Production Over 2L, as well as categories where there were multiple winners, such as Formula Race Cars and Sports Sedans.

Outside of the Championship’s staple entertaining battles, competitors in the

RX8 Cup enjoyed four races - two of which were won by the number one seed in Ryan Gorton, despite facing a late challenge from Steven Devjak.

Another special category to feature on the weekend was the NSW Production Sports, which had just two endurance races on Sunday. Wall Racing’s Drew Hall would end up proving too strong for his rivals, finishing 11 seconds ahead of the second placed

Sergio Pires in the opening race before beating Marcel Zalloua by seven seconds in the second race.

The Championship now heads to Wakefield Park later this month with the third round of the 2021 season on 22 May.

Photos: Priceless Images

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 31

MAHON CONTINUES DOMINANCE IN VICTORIAN HILL CLIMB David Mahon has continued his perfect start to the 2021 Trydel Ezi Up and Go Motorsport Australia Victorian Hill Climb Championship season with a third straight victory last month.

Taking place at the popular Haunted Hills hill climb course, 71 competitors took part in the third round of the season, each getting four runs at the course.

With a number of the championship’s stars unable to make the round, Mahon entered the round as a clear favourite with his biggest threat coming in the form of Mitsubishi EVO pilot, Mirko Grbic, who entered the round in second place after two podiums.

However Grbic couldn’t close down Mahon, posting just two times and only Photos: whythelongfaces

32 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

getting to within eight seconds of the leader on his final run for the day.

Mahon on the other hand was just too quick for not only Grbic, but for the rest of the competition – Mahon comfortably fastest on every stage and going under 70 seconds in each lap before eventually coming away with a four second win over Peter Minahan in the Hayward 7.

The battle for third place was just as close as Wim Janssen edged out Patrick Malanaphy by just over half a second, while Grbic rounded out the top five, gaining valuable points in the process.

After three rounds, Mahon now sits firmly on top of the standings having won three from three, 15 points ahead of Grbic who sits in second place.

Malanaphy’s fourth place saw him slot into third outright a further 15 points behind Brkic and just one point ahead of Janssen.

The next round of the 2021 Trydel Ezi Up and Go Motorsport Australia Victorian Hill Climb Championship is at One Tree Hill in Ararat on 5-6 June.

Click here to view results from the round.

Photos: whythelongfaces

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 33

MORGAN PARK TO BRING BACK THE MEMORIES IN MAY

Queensland based classic motorsport fans are in for a big treat this month with the annual Autumn Historic Warwick to take over Morgan Park Raceway.

The event is expecting to entice more than 160 competitors from around the country with a range of historic categories to feature as part of the two day event, as well as the regular state championship competitions including Production Sports Cars Group S, Sports Racing and open wheel racing groups.

However the main attraction for the weekend will be the historic element to the event with many famous vehicles to form part of the non-stop action.

Photo: Shifting Focus

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MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Many of the original cars that raced in Australia from the early 1970s to the early 1990s will be on display throughout the two day event, as well as a host of Group C and Group A Australian touring cars.

Around 24 entries will make up the joint category's delightful range of cars including the ex-Gibbs/ GIO Nissan GTR R32, the ex-Percy/ Crompton HRT VL Commodore and ex-Roadways VH Commodore.

The Group N Touring Cars will also get a large run during the race meeting with plenty of Mustangs, GT Falcons and XU-1 Toranas to do battle with Minis, Cortinas and early Holdens for the prestigious Don Thallon Trophy.

On top of that, all 5th category racing categories will be covered, making it an event not to be missed by the general motorsport fan.

Run by the Historic Racing Car Club of Queensland, the annual Autumn Historic Warwick takes place at Morgan Park Raceway on 8-9 May.

Click here for more information on the upcoming event.

Photos: Shifting Focus

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 35

MORLEY ENJOYS VICTORY IN FIRST STATE SPEED SERIES OUTING FOR 2021

The WA State Speed Series’ 2021 season continued in April with its fourth round as 46 drivers took part in the popular Point2Point event at Wanneroo Raceway.

With each competitor getting up to four runs of a course that went backwards around the circuit, it was Peter Morley in his first round of the year who comfortably took out a four second victory – his best run coming on his last attempt.

Finishing in second place was series leader John Webb, who like Morley, saved his best run until last where he pipped Rhyan Shapkaris for the runner-up place by less than three tenths of a second.

It was a tough end for Shapkaris after he had slotted into second on the penultimate run, the Baby Grand driver unable to wrestle his way back into second after failing to finish his final run.

The series also welcomed university student Jayden Clarke, who is using

Photo: Jono Gladstone

36 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Photos: Jono Gladstone

the series as a stepping stone into motorsport – the 22-year-old steering his Mazda 323 to 36th outright and a sub three minute time.

Event organiser Phil Morley believed drivers always appreciated winning this event as it’s quite challenging.

“Round four was run in great weather on a very challenging layout of the Barbagallo raceway,” Morley said.

“Starting on the hill climb course, competitors then use the link road to the main circuit and then traverse down the Esses in the wrong direction, using the area behind the pit complex before re-joining the circuit and finishing just after turn seven.

Following on from the event, Webb has a comfortable 20 point lead over Don Cameron, who finished the round sixth, while victory puts Peter Morley in 16th after his round – 53 points adrift from the lead.

The next event for the series is a double round in Albany in June.

Click here to view the round’s results.

“It’s all a bit complicated, which makes the competition even more exciting.

“A big shout out to Jayden too. A young kid still at uni and starting his motorsport career at grassroots level in his daily road car. That is the true meaning of the series.”

Click here to view the standings after four rounds.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 37

ARC FULLY IN MOTION AFTER COOL CANBERRA More than 18 months split the 2019 and 2021 RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship seasons with many changes occurring in-between.

However one thing that stayed the same was the dominance of reigning champions Harry Bates and John McCarthy – the Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia duo adding yet another victory to their golden run.

Having won all five rounds of the 2019 season, the duo enjoyed the perfect start to the 2021 season, claiming victory in the Netier National Capital Rally behind the wheel of their new GR Yaris AP4.

Right from the outset, Bates and McCarthy were too strong, winning the opening five stages of the rally, before claiming six of the remaining nine stages – including the Hyles Block Power Stage.

Finishing in second place and with three stage wins of their own was the second Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia

“It was a great weekend for the whole team.

We were hoping for the best when we rolled out two new cars... and here we are as winners.”

- Harry Bates

GR Yaris AP4 of Lewis Bates and Anthony McLoughlin.

In third place and a deserving recipient of the final podium place was 2017 ARC Champion Nathan Quinn and his codriver Ray Winwood-Smith.

Having fought hard during the season opener’s first eight stages, Quinn eventually broke away and secured the podium.

As a result of their outright third place, Quinn and Winwood-Smith also took out top prize in the White Wolf Constructions Production Cup Rally – beating Arron Windus and Daniel Brkic, who finished fourth outright.

Young gun Troy Dowel also enjoyed a memorable return to the ARC having picked up a top five placing alongside his highly experienced co-driver Bernie Webb.

A bit lower down the top 10 saw Victorian Adrian Stratford and co-driver Kain Manning take out both Shamrock Haulage ARC 2WD Championship

Photo: Jack Martin Photography

38 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Photo: Epic Sports Photography

and ARC Junior Cup honours in what was a first national event in their Ford Fiesta G2.

As always, the Netier National Capital Rally provides a major challenge for crews, and in 2021 it was a no different as a number of high-profile crews retired early due to mechanical issues or were bested by the harsh Kowen Forest roads.

Some of those included Richie Dalton, Darren Windus, Luke Anear, Guy Tyler and JJ Hatton – the latter not even making it to the first stage after a crash during testing.

The next round of the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship takes place this month with the Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland on 21-23 May in Gympie.

Click here to watch the highlights via 7plus.

NETIER NATIONAL CAPITAL RALLY TOP 10 1. Harry Bates/John McCarthy - 1:47:33.1 2. Lewis Bates/Anthony McLoughlin - 1:48:16.7 3. Nathan Quinn/Ray Winwood-Smith - 1:49:17.5 4. Arron Windus/Daniel Brkic - 1:53:54.6 5. Troy Dowel/Bernie Webb - 1:54:52.3 6. Andrew Penny/Rhys Llewellyn - 1:55:33.9 7. Adrian Stratford/Kain Manning - 1:56:05.2 8. Tom Clarke/Ryan Preston - 1:56:20.6 9. Cahal Carey/James Ford - 1:59:08.6 10. Bethany Cullen/Mel McMinn - 1:59:18.1

Photo: Epic Sports Photography

Photo: Jack Martin Photography

Photo: Epic Sports Photography

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 39

ARC TO RETURN TO THE SUNSHINE STATE THIS MONTH

There has already been lots of interest in the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (ARC) this year, but perhaps one event that has had even more attention has been the Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland.

in Australian rally, meaning it will be a level playing field.

The event only joined the 2021 calendar in February when too much uncertainty surrounding Western Australia’s border restrictions saw the event taken out of the schedule.

Already, 31 crews have signed up to the ARC leg event in what shaping up to be a very good looking entry list.

Since the Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland’s announcement though, crews have been licking their lips in anticipation for a couple of reasons.

Firstly, it’s the first time since 2016 the sunshine state has featured on the national calendar – the International Rally of Queensland serving as the last event – a joint ARC and Asian Pacific Rally Championship event won by Indian Gaurav Gill and Aussie Glenn Macneall.

Ryan Smart and John Allen took out top honours over Harry Bates and John McCarthy in the ARC leg of the past event.

Secondly, the Gympie based rally will be using roads rarely used

Photo: Epic Sports Photography

And if the Netier National Capital Rally is anything to go by, then there is much to look forward to for the average rally fan too.

Of course, the regular heavy hitters confirmed to run include Harry Bates, Lewis Bates, Richie Dalton, Nathan Quinn, Luke Anear and Arron Windus.

There are the likes of Troy Dowel, Taylor Gill and local talent Ryan Williams who continue to fly the flag for the future of the sport.

And then there are some names that really jump out.

2016 champion Molly Taylor has marked her grand return to the sport after winning the inaugural Extreme E Series round, Marcus Walkem gets to enjoy his first round of the year after having to pull out of Canberra and Max McRae – grandson of fivetime British Rally Champion Jimmy McRae, nephew of the great Colin McRae and son of former World Rally Championship regular Alister McRae – joins the ranks.

At only 16-years-old, McRae has yet to forge the same reputation as those in his famous family, and will be making his ARC debut this month behind the wheel of the Ford Fiesta R2 sourced from Spain.

The weekend will be run as a sprint format and will see crews tackle more than 160

Photo: Extreme.E Media

40 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Photo: Max McRae

competitive kilometres over 12 stages – six of which will be run on both days.

Run by the Brisbane Sporting Car Club the 2021 Motorsport Australia Queensland Rally Championship will coincide with the event – the state based crews to tackle just the first half of the event.

There will be four stages for fans to attend with all spectators to enter for free.

Entries will also remain open until 14 May, meaning it’s more than likely that more high-profile crews will enter the fold.

The Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland takes place in Gympie on 21-23 May.

Click here for more spectator and entry information for the Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland.

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.”

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.

The app can be found in Apple’s App Store and Google Play by MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 41

SUPERCARS SHARES SPOILS IN EPIC TASSIE BATTLE Shane van Gisbergen’s hot streak of wins in the Repco Supercars Championship came to end last month as the Beaurepaires Tasmania Supersprint saw three different drivers enjoy victories.

With the championship heading to Symmons Plains for the first time since April 2019, van Gisbergen had entered the round in irresistible form, taking out the opening five races of the 2021 season.

The Kiwi got off to a great start, converting his Race 6 pole position into a victory

having fought off early challenges from a fast starting Cameron Waters.

In the second race of the weekend, van Gisbergen qualified in sixth place but could not claim his seventh win of the season, falling just one second short of his Triple Eight Racing teammate Jamie Whincup, while Will Davison rounded out the podium.

Having secured pole for both race seven and eight on Sunday morning, Waters would have been keen to redeem himself in the weekend’s final race, but

Photos: EDGE Photographics Photos: EDGE Photographics

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once again struggled and finished just off the podium behind Davison for a second consecutive time.

Getting his first taste of victory in that final race was Chaz Mostert – the Queenslander beating Anton De Pasquale, who made it DJR’s first double podium placing for the year.

The Repco Supercars Championship continues early this month with the OTR Supersprint at The Bend Motorsport Park in South Australia on 7-9 May.

Click here for the full results from the round.

RACE 6 TOP THREE 1. Shane van Gisbergen 2. Jamie Whincup 3. Anton De Pasquale

RACE 7 TOP THREE 1. Jamie Whincup 2. Shane van Gisbergen 3. Will Davison

RACE 8 TOP THREE 1. Chaz Mostert 2. Anton De Pasquale 3. Will Davison

CHAMPIONSHIP TOP 10 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Photos: EDGE Photographics

Shane van Gisbergen - 865 points Jamie Whincup - 726 Chaz Mostert - 700 Cameron Waters - 663 Will Davison - 623 Mark Winterbottom - 687 David Reynolds - 474 Anton De Pasquale - 462 Nick Percat - 439 Brodie Kostecki - 437 MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 43

Photo: Felicity Thompson

DUSTY ALICE HOSTS DRAMATIC SXS HITOUT

The second round of the Kincrome SXS Motorsport Australia Championship was run and won in April with 2018 champion Simon Evans securing his first victory since the 2019 season opener.

In what was a dramatic round on the red dirt of Alice Springs, Evans and his co-driver Max O'Brien battled hard throughout the two 100km races and came away with two well deserved victories.

Right from the get-go Evans was fast, convincingly running away with

44 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

the opening race and raising the gap to almost two minutes over first-year competitor Trevor Finck and his co-driver Tyler Fitzgerald, before edging out his son Jackson and co-driver Sam Raper in the second race by just 30 seconds.

Although Finck finished the second race third, his two podium finishes was enough to secure an outright runner-up finish and cement his spot as the joint leader alongside Stephen Henry and Steve Walton, who finished the weekend in third.

Jackson Evans ended up in fourth place after being unable to make up the difference due a to difficult first race. Following on from the round, the reigning 2019 champion now sits equal third with his father Simon six points behind the front two crews.

In sixth outright, Jason Wilson and Caitlin Stephens grabbed the SXS Sport class win, beating the third member of the Evans clan, Eden Evans, by just four minutes.

The third round of the 2021 Kincrome SXS Motorsport Australia Championship takes place in Kooralbyn, Queensland on 15 May. Photos: Felicity Thompson

ROUND TWO TOP 10 1. Simon Evans/Max O’Brien 2. Trevor Finck/Tyler Fitzgerald 3. Stephen Henry/Steve Walton 4. Jackson Evans/Sam Raper 5. Chris Collins/Erika Savage 6. Jason Wilson/Caitlin Stephens 7. Rex Spencer/Thomas Moret 8. Matthew Keene/Jack Keeble 9. Eden Evans/Shannon Jennings 10. Jason Flavell/Stephen Rosier

CHAMPIONSHIP TOP 5 =1. =1.

3.

4.

5.

Travis Finck/Tyler Fitzgerald - 194 points Stephen Henry/Steve Walton - 194 Jackson Evans/Sam Raper/ Claudia Evans - 188 Simon Evans/Max O’Brien - 188 Chris Collins/Erika Savage - 182

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 45

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

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