Motorsport Australia Speed Read – October 2025

ANTI-DOPING EDUCATION

TOOLS ENDORSED

Motorsport Australia committed to Sport Integrity Australia anti-doping education platform.

WELCOME TO SPEED READ

It is time to decompress following a busy last month of motorsport, but only briefly, before we jump into the pointy end of the year.

Motorsport Australia’s officials have had a busy month of events, including the first of four National Speed and Auto Test Championships at the Motorsport Australia Hill Climb Championship, multiple rallies, and most recently, “The Great Race” - the Repco Bathurst 1000.

More than 600 officials dedicated their time making the latest Repco Supercars Championship round possible, including 473 officials assigned to pivotal race day roles. The officials tally was a 15 per cent increase on numbers in 2024, with the total number of race day officials also up 14 per cent. Women officials also accounted for 34 per cent of the officials, a five per cent increase on 2024.

It was Penrite Racing’s Matt Payne and Garth Tander who secured the Peter Brock Trophy, Tander accomplishing the feat for a sixth time. The 2025 edition of the Repco Bathurst 1000 will go down as arguably one of the great editions of the iconic race.

In October, Motorsport Australia also launched Driving Respect, a new learning module to help build a safe and respectful environment for the motorsport community. This new module delivers on a key recommendation of the Official Working Group relating to the development and safeguarding of Motorsport Australia officials.

The motorsport community congratulates Corinne East-Johnston for winning a Gold Medal in the Asia

Pacific Motorsport Championship in the Auto Gymkhana (Female) category. Reece McIntosh and Aaron Wuillemin competed finished fourth and 12th respectively in the second round of the Asia Auto Gymkhana Championship, and the former also secured a sixth-place finish in the Championship’s Karting Slalom competition. Marcus Watson also secured a P6 in the Esports - iRacing Final.

Motorsport Australia had more than 120 events take place over the month of September, many of which were the final rounds of club series and cups, capping off a great year for grassroots motorsport. State Championships also came to a close for 2025, and the number of volunteer officials continues to climb, now at more than 12,300 nationwide.

Australian competitors have enjoyed success overseas in recent weeks earning Championship glory, including Jayden Kelly with Greystone Racing, winning the McLaren Trophy Europe Championship, Alex Ninovic closed out his GB3 Championship, and Taylor Gill and Daniel Brkic claimed runners up in the Junior World Rally Championship by the smallest of margins. Matt Campbell claimed the 2025 IMSA GTP Drivers’ and Manufacturers’ Championship and Australian rally champion Molly Taylor claimed the inaugural FIA Extreme H World Cup in Saudi Arabia, alongside co-driver Kevin Hansen.

Please enjoy this month’s Speed Read and thank you for being a part of the motorsport community.

Penrite Racing’s Matt Payne and Garth Tander have won the iconic Repco Bathurst 1000, in one of the wettest and most dramatic editions of The Great Race in the event’s 67 years of history. With seven safety cars and several retirements on Mount Panorama, there was no shortage of incidents during the 161 laps of the famous racetrack.

The win for Kiwi Payne and 2007 Supercars Champion Tander marks a historic moment for the drivers, etching their names onto the Peter Brock Trophy for the first and sixth time in their respective careers.

The pair, who started from 18th on the grid, also secured the Ryco Enduro Cup with 554 points, beating out Cooper Murray and Jobe Stewart’s 416 points.

Garth Tander joined Larry Perkins and Mark Skaife as the only drivers to win the Repco Bathurst 1000 six times.

Payne, who went into the race second in the overall Repco Supercars Championship, continued his monumental rookie campaign with his fifth win of the season.

“It’s absolutely insane,” Payne said post-race.

“Just on the wet, that race went on forever, we kept getting safety cars, and it kept stalling our race.

“Then I saw Jimmy get into the side of Cooper which I predicted that was going to happen and managed to get through.

“I felt like I ran out of the tires at the end, but a win’s a win’s so I’ll take it.

“Just so good for the guys, they’ve worked so hard, it was just so good.”

MATT PAYNE " "

IT’S ABSOLUTELY INSANE

For Tander, it was a surreal moment in his storied career - notably his first Bathurst victory aboard a Ford - heaped praise on his co-driver.

“Those last 40-50 laps, you just knew plenty would happen, and Matt just kept his calm and managed that last lap when Golding was mucking around with his five-second penalty

“That was really an impressive drive, so I was just really happy to be proud of it.”

The hiccups during the race began from the get-go, with Bryce Fullwood and Brad Vaughan’s day coming unstuck with the #14 Brad Jones Racing Camaro stalling on the grid before it was towed away to the garage. The vehicle briefly returned to the track, but it again came in for repairs a lap later. The pair ultimately sat at the back of the order for the remainder of the race.

Engine issues plagued Matt Stone Racing 50 laps in, with the #10 Bendix Camaro pulling out of the contest after reports of a lost cylinder, while Nick Percat’s co-driver Tim Slade behind the wheel at the time of the retirement. Percat, who announced his retirement from full-time Supercars racing earlier this week, sat 37 points below the Supercars Finals Series cutline prior to the race.

The #25 Walkinshaw Andretti United Mustang was the third retirement from the race, also succumbing to an engine issue on lap 58, with Chaz Mostert pulling to a stop on The Chase due to an approaching safety car restart following Tony D’Alberto’s crash in the #17 Dick Johnson Racing Mustang at Forrest’s Elbow, which brought his and primary driver Will Davison’s weekend to an end.

Mark Winterbottom also pinched up into the wall at Forrest’s Elbow, which put himself and Cam Waters a lap off the pace for most of the race.

A faulty alternator fro defending Bathurst 1000 champions Todd Hazelwood and Brodie Kostecki was a major misstep for the duo, which was then further compounded by Kostecki running into the back of Kai Allen on the Main Straight on lap 99. A drivethrough penalty was given to Kostecki and effectively ended any chance of the #38 Dick Johnson Racing pair repeating 2024’s success.

and the rear wing with less than 30 laps remaining was also knocked out of contention.

With 22 laps remaining, Wood’s crank sensor failed, adding another dramatic twist to the final chunk of the race, while James Courtney and Jaxon Evans also exited from contention of the race.

With Wood officially ruled out, Cooper Murray then made his move with 21 laps remaining. Three laps later, Golding’s PremiAir teammate Richie Stanaway went into the concrete wall at The Cutting, thus knocking him out of the running, and adding another safety car.

As the race continued to the 151st lap, the Repco Bathurst 1000 turned into a three-car race for the win between Murray, Matt Payne and Golding, separated by one second.

#100

All three found themselves in a drag race down the Conrod Straight with nine laps to go, with Payne coming off the worst, ending up in gravel and rejoining in third.

Anton de Pasquale lost control at The Dipper slamming into the wall, bringing an end to the Team 18’s Bathurst 1000 after 105 laps.

Repco Supercars Championship leader Broc Feeney then put the Triple Eight Race Engineering’s #88 into the tyre-wall at Forrest’s Elbow on lap 124, putting one of the race’s top contenders out of action at a critical moment of the session. He would ultimately rejoin the pack and finish in sixth.

The racing resumed with 34 laps to go led by Ryan Wood, but PremiAir Racing’s James Golding wasted no time taking the lead and quickly amassing a multi-second lead before yet another safety car was called upon giving a chance for all front-runners to fit new wet tires.

Another Triple Eight racing incident, this time involving Will Brown, who lost his bonnet

A major slide from Murray from a push from Golding, which would prove to have an effect on the race result with a five second penalty for the contact, paved the way for Payne to take the lead with just five laps remaining and David Reynolds moving into the top three.

Golding remained in close pursuit of Payne in the remaining two laps, taking the lead out of Hell Corner to commence the last lap and would hold the lead until the end.

However, the aforementioned penalty ensured Payne and Tander the race win and elation for the #100 car Penrite Racing team, despite a hard charging David Reynolds and Lee Holdsworth who would be left content as runners-up.

THE 2025 REPCO SUPERCARS CHAMPIONSHIP NEXT HEADS FURTHER NORTH FOR THE BOOST MOBILE GOLD COAST 500 FROM 24-26 OCTOBER.

Teams will then shift focus to the Penrite Oil Sandown 500 from 1416 November for the Semi-Finals before the campaign concludes with the bp Adelaide Grand Final from 27-30 November, set against the backdrop of one of Australia’s most iconic street circuits.

THESE ARE THE GEN3 SUPERCAR CONTROL PARTS Technology proven in Supercars, available for your daily drive. BE RYCO READY

SCAN TO FIND FILTERS FOR YOUR VEHICLE.

Edge Photographics

NEW TRAINING MODULE

DRIVES RESPECT IN MOTORSPORT

Motorsport Australia is pleased to announce the launch of Driving Respect, a new learning module to help build a safe and respectful environment for the entire motorsport community.

The Driving Respect online training module is now available via the Motorsport Australia Member Portal for all officials to complete.

The two-part module has a focus on modelling a commitment to positive change and taking action to create that change.

Motorsport Australia Officials Manager Aidan Siegel welcomed the new behavioural training, stating that the practical framework will help to help build an environment of respect and inclusiveness.

“As Motorsport Australia’s officials community grows, in particular with the younger demographic, it is critical to ensure the work environment for the volunteer community is safe, inclusive and the best it can possibly be,” Siegel said.

“Motorsport Australia’s volunteer officials are essential for the safe, fair and fun conduct of every event and this training will help their individual development and that of the entire sport.”

Topics include understanding the legal framework around unacceptable behaviours in motorsport, identifying psychosocial hazards, and understanding where the duty of care rests whether you’re trackside or beyond.

The training explores sexual harassment, discrimination, bullying and intimidation, hazing and exclusion, and

inappropriate communications, using real-world scenarios to help participants understand the role of bystander intervention and the importance of proactive action.

The training is available for all Motorsport Australia officials and forms part of a larger skills development toolkit available for volunteer officials that not only trains individuals how to respond to an array of situations, but also how to build a culture of respect where everyone plays a part in the sport we all love.

Motorsport Australia has clear and safe pathways for reporting unacceptable behaviour, you can read more about the Motorsport Australia’s Integrity Policies here

If you experience or see something that concerns you, whether as a competitor, volunteer, official or witness, you can report it using the Raising an Integrity Concern form or by contacting integrity@motorsport.org.au

EXTERNAL 24/7 SUPPORT SERVICES INCLUDE:

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

Lifeline: 13 11 14

1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732

Crisis text line: 0477 13 11 14

Safer Sport Hotline: 1800 161 361

QLife (LGBTI): 1800 184 527

MensLine: 1300 789 978

Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800

BEGINNER’S GUIDE WHAT IS A KHANACROSS?

KHANACROSS OFFERS A RELATIVELY LOW-COST ENTRY POINT TO MOTORSPORT THAT CATERS TO ALL SKILL LEVELS

Simply put, khanacross is a popular type of motorsport event in Australia, combining elements of rally and autocross.

A khanacross typically takes place on bitumen or gravel tracks and circuits, with participants racing against the clock. Unlike traditional autocross, which is held on paved surfaces, khanacross events challenge drivers with off-road conditions, testing their car control and driving skills on a variety of terrains.

Run at a lower speed and shorter distance to other types of motorsport, khanacross courses must include sufficient turns, chicanes, garages, or similar located such that the average speed is less than 70 km/h and the maximum speed is less than 100 km/h at any point.

The format of a khanacross involves navigating a set course marked by

cones or other obstacles. Drivers compete individually (no codriver needed), and the goal is to complete the course in the fastest time, with penalties for knocking over markers or veering off track.

Importantly, khanacross offers a relatively low-cost entry point to motorsport that caters to all skill levels from novice drivers to enthusiasts alike, and without the need for a special vehicle. In most instances your standard car will do.

It’s an excellent way for drivers to experience rally-style driving in a controlled, non-competitive environment. Events are often held by car clubs and grassroots motorsport organisations, making it easy for participants to get involved in local events.

Given it is an autocross discipline of motorsport, the minimum age is 12

and does have the capacity to allow coaches and instructors to provide guidance and training for new and novice drivers at club level events.

Overall, khanacross has become a widely enjoyed motorsport in Australia, providing both seasoned racers and newcomers with an exciting and challenging experience. Previous experience is not essential, but it is a good idea to try your hand at a motorkhana first, then graduate to khanacross.

To get started, you need a Motorsport Australia Speed licence and sign up to be a member of a Motorsport Australia affiliated car club.

Safety is Motorsport Australia’s number one priority and event-specific safety requirements will be available through your club upon registration.

Zed Photographyy

SIX SIX HOUR HOUR

THE 10TH RUNNING OF THE 2026 BATHURST 6 HOUR WILL BE HELD ACROSS 3-5 APRIL, WITH HIGH DEMAND EXPECTED TO FIELD THE LARGEST GRID AT AN AUSTRALIAN CIRCUIT RACING EVENT.

ENTRIES NOW OPEN FOR 2026 BATHURST 6 HOUR

The annual Easter enduro enjoys stability in regulations this year with limited changes to the event sporting and technical regulations, as approved by Motorsport Australia.

Next year's event will also see increased track time for Bathurst 6 Hour competitors with an extra hour of practice time allocated across the event to ensure all drivers have an opportunity to gain meaningful seat time prior to qualifying and the race.

Bathurst 6 Hour Category Manager Charise Bristow explained early interest has been promising since entries opened, estimating the course grid will be filled again in 2026.

"With more than 80 entries in total lodged for the 2025 race, we encourage people to enter early and quickly to secure their spot on the grid,” Bristow said.

"The grid is capped at 72 cars however, once again, we will accept reserve entries who wish to remain entered in case of any withdrawals in the weeks leading up to the event or, as we saw this year, at the event itself.

"The quality of the field, the effort the teams put in and the good vibes in the paddock keep getting

better and better each year so we're all really excited to see who lines up at Easter next year."

In 2025, a record 71 cars started the race from a capacity 72-car entry and was claimed outright by the BMW M2 driven by Dean Campbell and Cameron Crick, who set a record by winning from the lowest ever starting position in history (66th) in the closest ever finish, just 0.8 seconds.

The turnout marked the largest-ever endurance racing grid at Mount Panorama and included for the first time in Bathurst 6 hour history, a reserve entry. This came following an earlier withdrawal following practice on Saturday.

Event organisers expect another capacity field in 2026 and will again welcome reserve entrants, who wish to be on 'hot standby', should the opportunity to compete arises.

Entry information including the online form and regulations are available online from the Bathurst 6 Hour website, bathurst6hour.com.au

Tickets and camping packages are already on sale for the 2026 event with strong early demand. This year, a record three-day crowd of more than 20,000 attended the event.

3-5 APRIL

CLUB BUSINESS WORKSHOP

ATTRACTING AND RETAINING WOMEN MEMBERS

Motorsport Australia is pleased to announce its second Club Business Workshop for 2025, designed to provide grassroots clubs with the tools and knowledge to improve their operational capabilities and grow motorsport participation at all levels.

Hosted by Charlie Barlow, Development Manager at Motorsport Australia, this workshop will be held online on Tuesday 28 October at 7pm AEDT and is free and is free and open to members and committees of Motorsport Australia Affiliated Car Clubs.

This workshop explores ways clubs can build a supportive and inclusive environment to attract and retain new members and grow participation.

TOPICS INCLUDE

· Breaking Down Barriers: strategies to address common challenges women face in motorsport.

·Visibility & Role Models: celebrating female role models to inspire others.

· Leadership Development: creating pathways for women to succeed.

· Practical Programs & Activities: how to introduce accessible and engaging programs.

The workshop builds on the proven framework used in Motorsport Australia’s Women’s Introduction to Motorsport program, nationally recognised as the leading program dedicated to encouraging women’s participation in motorsport and supported by Victorian Government as part of the Inclusive Participation Project Funding stream of the Together More Active program.

To register, head to motorsport.org.au/ business-workshops

The Club Business Workshops are part of Motorsport Australia’s suite of programs, support, and benefits available exclusively to affiliated car clubs. Accordingly, this event is open only to members and committees of Motorsport Australia Affiliated Car Clubs.

MOTORSPORT

UPDATE AVAILABLE APP

To provide Motorsport Australia members with a better user experience and improved functionality, a major update to the Motorsport Australia app has been rolled out across iOS (Apple) and Android devices.

This update sets the foundation for further developments, including contemporary features and improved usability.

The updated Motorsport Australia app features a refreshed interface with a digital licence display. Members can log in with their ID and password, scroll through their licence types via an image carousel, and access key details including licence status and a QR code for seamless event check-in.

functionality, Android users will need to remove and reinstall the app on their device.

Your account information will not be deleted, you will simply need to login to your Motorsport Australia account after reinstallation.

Apple iOS users who have automatic updates enabled will already have the latest version of the Motorsport Australia app, but it is recommended that Apple iOS users also delete and reinstall the app to ensure the latest version is installed.

FIND OUT FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT THE MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA APP

Mhari Douga

IMOGEN

RADBURN RELISHES F1 ACADEMY TEST OPPORTUNITY

Australian motorsport athlete and AGI Sport driver Imogen Radburn has returned from Spain’s Navarro region, where she made history as one of 18 up-and-coming female openwheel drivers to take part in the F1 Academy Rookie Test.

Radburn said her two-day experience at the inaugural F1 Academy Rookie Test will undoubtedly make her a better driver.

The 19-year-old New South Wales-based competitor recently joined her fellow female drivers for a chance to show in-person why they should be considered for a highly-coveted spot on the 2026 F1 Academy grid.

“I think it was a really good experience. It's another thing that you just sort of add to what you've done in your career and to make it into that sort of top 18 in the world is pretty surreal,” Radburn said.

“We didn't think we'd be there 12 months ago, let alone 18 months ago I didn’t think I’d be driving an F4 car either.

“Overall, it's a huge step in my career, and to say that I was the first Australian to be selected to the F1 Academy Rookie Test is a massive honour.

“I made the absolute most out of it. I did everything I possibly could in my power to make my mark and make sure that I put my best foot forward.”

As part of the test, all 18 drivers took to Spain's Circuit de Navarra in equal machinery and conditions at the same time, working with some of the biggest teams in junior single-seater racing, as well as being mentored by 2024 F1 Academy Champion Abbi Pulling.

The testing was split across two days on 17-18 September with driver development the focus on the opening day, as rookies immersed themselves in an F1 Academy team, observing briefings and engineering sessions alongside the current grid.

Drivers participated in research-led physical and cognitive assessments delivered by the series’ Official Driver Performance & Research Partner, More than Equal, to

support their individual development and progression, which provided each driver with detailed insights into her own performance, including strength, cognition, and endurance.

The final day involved drivers getting behind the wheel of a F1 Academy vehicle for six hours of track time.

Radburn, a former AU4 Championship competitor locally, was competitive among the world-class field of drivers at the testing and now awaits her fate from one of the F1 Academy teams for 2026.

If successful, Radburn would become the third Australian to join the F1 Academy ranks alongside Joanne Ciconte and Aiva Anagnostiadis.

“It's now waiting game to see who gets in. You could be with another team that you didn't test with. You honestly don't know what could happen from here,” Radburn said.

“It's the first time they've ever done it, so no one sort of knows what to expect. So, obviously, I'll keep my options open for next year, in case things don’t go my waywhether that's GT cars or something similar, I've always wanted to shoot for the stars and make it to Supercars.

“That was always the first goal with Cam Hill and racing with CHE Racing Team, and that's why we did Formula Ford for three years, to really lay that foundation of how hard cars can be driven.

“Who knows what could happen? I didn't think I'd be in this situation eight to 12 months ago, so who knows where my driving could take me.”

Radburn continues to be a role model for younger drivers, engaging with programs such as Motorsport Australia First Gear and Girls on Track events as an instructor and speaker.

One more round remains in the 2025 F1 Academy season at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Insyde Media

NSW RALLY CHAMPIONS

CROWNED ON COFFS COAST

The 2025 Quality Accounting Coffs Coast Rally delivered a thrilling finale to the Shamrock Haulage NSW Rally Championship, with Josh Redhead and Ray Winwood-Smith taking a hard-fought outright victory, but the year would belong to Tony Sullens and Kaylee Newell securing the Championship.

The Redhead Motorsport crew’s weekend didn’t start smoothly. In Heat 1, their Hyundai i20 G4 suffered engine issues that forced the team to turn off the anti-lag system. The pair battled through, keeping their championship hopes alive with steady pace before unleashing their full potential later in the day when the issue was addressed.

Redhead and Winwood-Smith charged back to win both Heat 2 and Heat 3, securing the outright rally win and finishing over a minute ahead of Brad Hardaker and Pete Hellwig in a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo.

Ian Menzies and Robert McGowan in the Toyota Yaris AP4 completed the podium in third place, securing them the Queensland Rally Championship victory in the process.

At the final control after the night stage, Redhead was thrilled to end the season on a high.

“It was great to take the win,” Redhead continued.

“It was so challenging, that’s for sure. There wasn’t much grip in there to start with, but we’re really happy to take the win.”

“Props to Tony”, Redhead continued.

“He’s put up a good fight and has probably won the series. It was a bit of a long shot for us to win, but we tried our hardest.”

For Sullens and Newell, it was a tense day where every point mattered.

The Citroën DS3 team needed a strong finish to secure the Shamrock Haulage NSW Rally Championship, but early in the event they were held back by a limpmode fault that restricted engine performance.

Once the issue was resolved, they found their pace again on the night stage, doing enough to seal the Championship. Other standout performances came from Mal Keough and Pip Bennett, bringing their iconic Audi Quattro home fourth outright.

From a NSW Rally Championship perspective, Redhead and Winwood-Smith secured second overall, meanwhile Jody Mill seals third after finishing every heat in 2025.

It was one of the closest championships in years, with just twelve points separating the top three drivers. Nathan Quinn, who suffered a puncture in Heat 1 at Coffs, might well have changed the entire shape of the championship had luck been on his side.

The 2025 Quality Accounting Coffs Coast Rally was organised by the Coffs Harbour and District Sporting Car Club and proudly supported by Quality Accounting, with thanks to series partners Shamrock Haulage and MRF Tyres.

Roy Meuronen Photography

No.1 Motorsport & Performance Marketplace

Australia's home for motoring enthusiasts since 2002

Mazda RX-7 Group C

A recent round winner at Winton Raceway winning 4 from 4 races and setting a new class record. Famously raced in the 1984 Bathurst 1000 by Tony Kavich and Phil Alexander, this striking Yellow Pages livery has attracted a strong following.

P Price: $220,000 www my105 com/30692

Grp 4 Escort RS1800

Built by Escort guru Ian Hill from a rust and crash free shell, with all fabrication done to Homologation papers. Car is presented ready to rally, having only done just two rallies. Those being 2022 Alpine and 2024 Ada River for total 578 stage km’s from new.

P Price:$175,000 www my105 com/31435

Datsun Stanza

Fully prepared rally car, no expense has been spared, includes extensive spare parts. This vehicle has been prepared for and used in longer distance endurance events. Original car was stripped back to bare metal and fully rebuilt, no rust. No accidents.

P Price: $35,000 www my105 com/31360

Toyota Corolla KE10

Would be ideal for Regularity, Karnacross, Historic Tin Tops, Hill climb. Very solid body. KE30 5 speed, downdraft Weber, KMac Camber kit, front and rear sway bars, lowered. Half cage and harness. Needs a good tune but a great entrylevel club car.

P Price:$12,500 www my105 com/31239

AU4 FINALE KILLION SECURES CHAMPIONSHIP

Fifteen-year-old Noah Killion has claimed the 2025 Motorsport Australia AU4 Championship, sealing the title at Sydney Motorsport Park last month.

The Gen2 AGI Sport driver capped off his debut campaign with a decisive performance in the fifth and final round of the season.

After Round 4 in August, Volante Rosso’s Isaac McNeill held a slender four-point lead over Killion on raw points.

Under clear skies at Sydney Motorsport Park, Killion dominated the opening race, taking a convincing victory in Race 1 ahead of Tim Macrow Racing’s Harrison Duske.

The race was interrupted for five laps under full yellow flags following a high-speed collision, when Chloe Lane (Gen2, Tim Macrow Racing) went wide under the bridge and collected Koby Wilson (Gen1, AGI Sport).

Killion then navigated the win in Race 2 despite another five laps under the safety car. The results mirrored Race 1 with Killion, Duske and McNeill finishing first to third.

Race 3 brought further high drama when Killion clashed with Duske at turn 2 while fighting for the race lead. Duske, who was also in the hunt for third place in the Gen2 Championship, was turned around and rejoined in last place, while Killion recovered and started to chase McNeill and Cohen Kokovich (AGI Sport).

Killion snapped up the advantage and worked into the lead with less than four minutes remaining in the race to take the chequered flag.

Post-race penalties to address the clash with Duske reshuffed the order, dropping Killion down the order and

moving Brock Burton (Tim Macrow Racing), Imogen Radburn (AGI Sport) and Chloe Lane into the podium positions.

Killion’s results across the round still confirmed him as Gen2 champion ahead of McNeill and Duske.

Killion took to social media following the win, congratulating his fellow racers on a competitive season.

“What an amazing season this has been, with great racing,” Killion stated.

“I’d like to give a huge thanks to my parents for supporting me throughout the season both on and off track.

“I’d also like to thank AGI Sport and more specifically, Timmi, Mark, and Cade who helped me set up the car, look at my data, and coach me through my races.”

In the Gen1 field, Andrew Fitzpatrick (Fitzpatrick Racing) dominated the Sydney round with three wins.

The round podium went Fitzpatrick, Jamie-Lee Su and Koby Wilson. However, Jenson Marold had already secured the Gen1 Championship crown at last month’s SMSP round.

Marold’s title comes with free entry into Gen2 for 2026 and a full test day in a Tatuus F4-TA21.

Killion’s Gen2 victory also means earning a test with a championship-winning team in the United States.

AUSTRALIAN NAMED AMONG ALL-WOMEN ESPORTS TEAM

Australian sim racing competitor Mia Rose has been named in the six-driver team at Rokt Red Bull Racing Esports, currently competing in the Motorsport UK British F4 Esports Championship through to the end of 2025.

The team’s announcement marks the first time an all-women squad will take part in the British F4 Esports Championship, and a milestone moment for the team’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity in sim racing.

Rose joins Americans Paige Daughenbaugh, Annemarie DePasquale and Bel Wells, as well as Briton Rebecca Morrell and Spaniard Diana Perez.

The final team was selected after a comprehensive series of trials on the iRacing platform, drawing the attention of some of the world’s most talented female sim racers. Six drivers were ultimately chosen.

Two drivers were selected from Rokt’s ‘Rokt the Rig’ program, an initiative developed in partnership with Oracle Red Bull Racing, which uses the EA Sports F1 game to scout and nurture women participants in esports and motorsport.

Director of Partnerships at Red Bull Technology Group Julia George said the aim of the Rokt the Rig programme, is to provide female esports talent with the opportunity to develop and hone their skills in a professional, competitive setting.

“We’re incredibly proud to be partnering with Rokt to give wings to this group of talented women,” George outlined.

" WE’RE INCREDIBLY PROUD TO BE PARTNERING WITH ROKT TO GIVE WINGS TO THIS GROUP OF TALENTED WOMEN "

“Their commitment and dedication has been evident in preparation for the British F4 Esports Championship and we couldn’t wait to see how they got on in the opening round.”

The drivers underwent intensive training during a week-long bootcamp at the Red Bull Technology Campus in Milton Keynes prior to racing for the team.

The training included a bespoke gym session with the team’s

personal trainer, and coaching from two-time iRacing World Champion Sebastian Job.

Chief Commercial Officer Elizabeth Buchanan said Rokt believes inclusion fuels performance, and the all-female team shows what’s possible when opportunity meets talent.

“Through initiatives like Rokt the Rig and now this first-ever all-women team, we are creating clear pathways for female talent to compete and thrive at the highest levels,” Buchanan stated.

“Our partnership with Oracle Red Bull Racing goes beyond performance. Driving change, breaking barriers, and fostering the next generation of leaders across sport, technology and business.”

The British F4 Esports Championship is two rounds into the season, already hosting rounds at Donington Park and Thruxton.

Six rounds remain in the season with the final round to take place at Brands Hatch on 26 November.

COLIN BOND THE STORY OF A MOTORSPORT LEGEND

Full Tilt tells the story of one of Australia’s most revered motorsport legends, Colin Bond.

The autobiography, co-authored by journalist, motorsport commentator and publicist John Smailes, comes out 50 years after Bond secured the Australian Touring Car Championship.

Colin Bond remains an iconic figure in Australia’s motorsport community, capturing a long list of accolades over several decades in motorsport.

In Full Tilt Bond reveals his feelings about Holden and Ford, Brock and Moffat, and the famous one-two finish at the 1977 Bathurst 1000 for the first time ever.

Three-time Australian Touring Car Champion Craig Lowndes titled Bond as a true pioneer of the sport.

“Growing up in a motorsport family I knew the strong rivalry between Holden and Ford. Not many drivers have managed to cross over and be successful,” Lowndes said.

“Colin Bond was one of the first drivers to make the change and show it works.”

From his early days winning the Australian Rally Championship in 1971, 1972 and 1974 to conquering

Bathurst and beyond, Bond’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Bond is known for his adaptability, humility, and competitive spirit across decades behind the wheel.

The launch at the Repco Bathurst 1000 was hosted by Bathurst Mayor Councillor Robert Taylor and Federal Member for Calare, the Hon. Andrew Gee MP.

Motorsport Australia

President Andrew Fraser, Interim CEO Nikky Lennon and FIA Delegate Garry Connelly AM were also in attendance alongside President and CEO of Ford Australia Andrew Birkic, Senior Executive Vice President of Toyota Australia Sean Hanley, and General Manager of Marketing at General Motors, Chris Payne.

Full Tilt celebrates the enduring legacy of Colin Bond, who shaped Australian motorsport history.

WITH OUR RANGE OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS & SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS

FIRE SYSTEMS | SERVICING | REFILLS

PLAN AHEAD & BEAT THE RUSH

/ The off-season is fast approaching. Check your Fire    Extinguisher service date & be prepared for 2026

/ Authorised Service Agent for Lifeline, Sparco & FEV

/ Service & refills at Box Hill (VIC) & Yatala (QLD)

/ Road freight shipping required — allow transit time

/ Contact our Racer Industries sales staff for expert   advice on service locations and shipping options

/ Comprehensive range of FIA and Motorsport Australia   approved systems available to purchase.

A MULTI-YEAR CLIMB UP THE VICTORIAN RALLY RANKS FINALLY ENDED IN JUBILATION FOR BRENDAN REEVES AND HIS CO-DRIVER AIDAN O’HALLORAN FOLLOWING LAST MONTH’S YARRA VALLEY STAGES RALLY.

YEAR NOT DONE FOR VICTORIAN RALLY CHAMPION VICTORIANRALLYCHAMPIONSHIP

VICTORIANRALLY

CHAMPIONSHIP RALLYCHAMPIONSHIP

“This year it was really cool to be in our 4WD Subaru and be able to do it properly against the other competitors in their 4WDs which made it a really good, fun year.”

Reeves, who had come close to winning the Victorian Rally Championship in previous years, was able to reach the title after a strong showing in Yarra Glen and with one round of the Championship still to come.

“It was a terrific year overall, which certainly came with some challenges and hurdles we had to deal with, but it was a phenomenal effort from all who were involved - particular Aidan who was instrumental for me the entire season,” Reeves said.

“We’ve still got some work to do, so we’ll look to put in a strong showing with a couple more events this year before start thinking about what comes next.”

The Reeves Rally Team pair got the season off to the perfect start, notching up two wins from the first two stops of 2025 - first at the Mitta Mountain Rally in late-March and then again at the Ada River Rally in mid-May.

At Round 3 of the Victorian Rally Championship in Bega, the duo ran into its first hiccup of the season.

After winning four stages and leading the rally, on SS5 Upper Cobargo the roll pin in the gear selector broke leaving the Subaru stranded in 4th gear and forced an early retirement on day one. This was further compounded by a second retirement after a hard hit in the water splash during the second stage resulting in the radiator mount issue.

Reeves returned back to form at Victoria’s EROAD Australian Rally Championship stop, The Middle of Everywhere Gippsland Rally, after securing another championship win despite battling a broken cross member the entire day and edging closer to the season win.

The title was then secured on September 20, after Reeves took home two heat wins and eight stage wins at the Yarra Valley Stages Rally, capping off a terrific year behind the wheel with one round still remaining.

“I had in previous years never thought of setting out to do the Championship, early on in my career I did stuff overseas and other different events and the Victorian Championship was more of a test bed for me,” Reeves said.

“It was more recently rallying back here now just more for fun, which I was previously doing it in my classic rally car, the Datsun 1600, and we had come close a couple of times to winning the Championship in previous years, but not quite taking it home.

“This year it was really cool to be in our 4WD Subaru and be able to do it properly against the other competitors in their 4WDs which made it a really good, fun year.”

Reeves participated in the sixth round of the Victorian Rally Championship at the Akademos Rally in the Datsun 1600. The Victorian now begins preparations for the Alpine Rally of East Gippsland on 28 November - one of the country’s marquee rally events and one Reeves has always dreamt of winning.

“I’ve received a lot of questions from people asking about the Datsun’s return, so it must be a bit of a crowd favourite I guess,” Reeves joked.

“I haven’t used that car competitively since Bega last year, so it’ll be exciting to get back into it for these next to rallies, for sure.”

Further information for the Alpine Rally of East Gippland is out now for competitors and spectators.

When Trevor Neumann was awarded Motorsport Australia’s Australian Official of the Year Award at this year’s National Awards Night, it recognised a lifelong dedication and passion to motorsport officiating.

Do you know a potential Australian Motorsport Official of the Year? Make sure to nominate someone for next year’s awards night before the deadline closes.

Neumann’s history in motorsport began in 1974, joining the Central Queensland Motor Sporting Club to participate in navigating.

A few years later, Neumann then began his development through the officiating ranks, which led him into the world of stewarding.

He started stewarding at the grassroots-level, and then progressed through to the Supercars racing schedule, where he has also engaged in GT4 categories for instance.

Neumann displayed the enthusiasm, dedication, knowledge, leadership, respectfulness and strategic foresight to become an exceptional official.

“My job now, the part that I play for officials, is in stewarding, and also looking forward to the future of stewarding in Australia,” Neumann said during his award speech.

NEUMANN FOCUSED ON OFFICIALS DEVELOPMENT

“We’re looking forward to the future, I always advise new Stewards to begin at the club level and work their way up, that’s what I did.

“Most nationally appointed Stewards, bar a few, speed through the program because of their exceptional skills, but some of us do it through the different grades, which is also tremendous fun.”

Neumann’s own mantra includes a strong desire for succession planning initiatives to foster sustained growth, high leadership and the transfer of knowledge to empower future Senior Officials, particularly Stewards.

In accepting his award earlier this year, Neumann also took the time to thank longtime friend and Motorsport Australia Life Member Peter Drew and Michael Masi, who assisted Neumann in obtaining his first national Stewards role at Formula Ford.

Nominations for the 2025 Motorsport Australia State and National Awards, proudly presented by Shannons Insurance, are now open.

Be sure to nominate before the nomination period closes on Friday 24 October.

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA ENDORSES ANTI-DOPING EDUCATION TOOLS

Motorsport Australia remains committed to ensuring a fair, safe, clean and informed competition environment for all participants.

In order to keep the motorsport community aligned with Sports Integrity Australia requirements, Motorsport Australia encourages all recreational and competitive participants to complete the latest antidoping and integrity education online modules.

The below modules are designed to equip competitors with essential knowledge around anti-doping, rule updates, and the integrity of the sport.

The three core modules are:

· Anti-Doping Fundamentals

· Annual Update 2025

· Competition Manipulation and Sport Gambling

Drivers can complete these modules via the Sport Integrity Australia EDGE Learning platform. They will need to register or log in, access the courses through their account, and follow the instructions to complete each module.

Several how-to videos are available through the Sport Integrity Australia YouTube channel, to assist with registration and accessing the modules.

Helpful videos on how to use the SIA’s EDGE Learning Platform can be found below:

· New eLearning platform SIA EDGE launching 1 July

· Update your personal information on SIA EDGE

· Access a course in SIA EDGE

· Download Your Certificate from SIA EDGE

To access the eLearning modules, log in to elearning. sportintegrity.gov.au using your Learner Login details.

If you do not have a Learner Login, click the Register button to generate a new one. If you have created an account but have not logged in since prior to 1 July, you will need to follow the ‘Forgot Password’ steps.

If you have any questions or queries on how to complete these online modules, feel free to contact the integrity team at integrity@motorsport.org.au

Once the modules are completed, competitors must send their certificates of completion to integrity@motorsport.org.au to confirm compliance with Sport Integrity Australia.

More information on each module can be found here:

Anti-Doping Fundamentals: Comprehensive antidoping education covering the rules and regulations related to anti-doping, the processes involved in testing, the ethical and health implications of doping, and the responsibilities of athletes and support personnel to uphold anti-doping standards.

Annual Update 2025: This course reflects current trends in anti-doping and broader integrity issues including new prohibited substances, rule changes and other contemporary topics.

Competition Manipulation and Sport Gambling: An introduction to what competition manipulation is, different types of competition manipulation, and sport specific rules to assist with identifying breaches, recognising matchfixer strategies, and knowing how to report concerns.

Background on Motorsport Australia’s connection to Sport Integrity Australia

Motorsport Australia is bound by the National Anti-Doping (NAD) Scheme, which is contained in Schedule 1 to the Sport Integrity Australia Regulations 2020 (Cth), made under the Sport Integrity Australia Act 2020. This includes provisions that Motorsport Australia have in place, maintain, and enforce Anti-Doping policies and practices that comply with the mandatory provisions of the World Anti -Doping Code International Standards for Education and the NAD Scheme.

With the World Anti-Doping Association (WADA) implementing mandatory anti-doping educational requirements across all sporting signatories around the world, to ensure compliance as well as protect the integrity of our sport, Sport Integrity Australia has developed an Education Plan for all sporting codes across Australia and has partnered with Motorsport Australia to tailor one specifically for our competitors.

MILOJKOVIC SASHA

EAGER TO BUILD ON DEBUT EUROPEAN SEASON

Australian driver Sasha Milojkovic has concluded his debut European season, with the Sydney driver learning valuable lessons and collating standout performances in the French Formula 4 Championship.

Despite a challenging final round at the legendary Le Mans circuit, Milojkovic’s year was marked by ongoing improvement and one lined with learning opportunities and chances to develop while becoming familiar with the latest generation Formula 4 car at Europe's elite-level circuits.

“I knew this year would be tough, coming to Europe for the first time with new cars and new circuits,” Milojkovic said.

“It has definitely been a big learning year with some rough patches, but I made constant improvements and I am a much better driver now than when I started.”

“That momentum helped at Magny-Cours where we showed really competitive qualifying pace, proving we could match the others."

The season finale at Le Mans provided one last positive for the year.

IT HAS DEFINITELY BEEN A BIG LEARNING YEAR WITH SOME ROUGH PATCHES, BUT I MADE CONSTANT IMPROVEMENTS AND I AM A MUCH BETTER DRIVER NOW THAN WHEN I STARTED.

One of Milojkovic’s highlights of the rookie campaign was a stellar weekend at Spa-Francorchamps, which ended with a solid points haul by the end of the visit to Belgium.

The successful outing provided a major confidence boost and created momentum that carried into the following rounds.

This was evident particularly at Magny-Cours, where Milojkovic demonstrated raw pace in qualifying.

"Scoring points at Spa and just having the chance to race on such an amazing, historic track was an incredible opportunity,” Milojkovic added.

Milojkovic delivered a fighting drive in the final race of the season, making several strong passes to climb several positions and finish 18th.

On the back of a rewarding 2025, Milojkovic credited those who supported him throughout the year.

"I have to say a huge thank you to my coach, Vincent Cassaignau, for his guidance both on and off the track. His input was crucial to my progress," Milojkovic stated.

“Also, thanks to Oliver Myers at Focus Driver Performance for helping me prepare for the transition to Europe at the start of the year. And of course, a massive thank you to my Mum and Dad for their incredible efforts and sacrifices to make this year happen.”

Milojkovic now returns to Australia for a couple of months to begin preparations for a planned return to European competition in 2026.

NEW ASSOCIATION TO STEER AUSTRALIA’S HISTORIC MOTORSPORT FORWARD

A new historical motorsport body has been formed to promote Australia’s rich motorsport history, made up of members from historic racing clubs all over the country.

The Historic Motorsport Promoters (HMP) group aims to bring together promoters and Historic Racing Clubs from around Australia with a shared passion for preserving and promoting historic motorsport.

Chris Carter

The HMP focuses on collaboration, community engagement, and lobbying for evolutionary change within the sport’s rules while showcasing the legacy of motorsport through well-curated events honouring the cars, drivers, and stories that have helped shaped the sport.

The inaugural members of the HMP include Historic Racing Club’s (Queensland) Chris Fung, Historic Sports and Racing Car Association of NSW’s Wayne Wilson, Sporting Car Club of South Australia’s Mark Goldsmith, Motorsports Tasmania’s Peter Killick, Austin 7 Club’s Michael Lambert and Victorian Historic Racing Register’s Mike Herlihy.

Herlihy, who will serve as the inaugural HMP group president, outlined each of the state clubs will continue to independently promote and coordinate their respective state motorsport events, while the HMP aims to increase collaboration and synchronisation between its members.

“Historic motorsport is about more than racing –it’s about keeping alive the machines, the people, and the spirit of competition that define the history of motorsport in Australia,” Herlihy said.

“Our mission is to support the promoters and organisers of Historic motorsport events that not only celebrate this history but also inspire future generations of participants and fans.”

The group states it will support promoters of historic motorsport across Australia by encouraging wider

public participation and awareness of the Australian motorsport heritage, provide a united voice for promoters working to grow the profile of historic racing, and will foster partnerships with clubs, sponsors, and motorsport organisations - including lobbying for category/regulatory evolution within the sport.

Motorsport Australia State and Club Competition Manager Bruce Astbury will sit in on HMP meetings alongside incoming Motorsport Australia Historic Motorsport Committee Chair Norman Gowers as invited guests, maintaining a strong connection between the HMP group and the governing body’s historic motorsport committee.

Astbury said the HMP group will play pivotal role in facilitating collaboration between promoters.

“This is a really positive step for historic motorsport,” Astbury said.

“By bringing the different state-based promoters together, we can share knowledge, resources and ideas more effectively.

“It’s about strengthening the historic motorsport community, supporting organisers, and ensuring the longterm sustainability of historic motorsport across Australia.”

For more information or to get involved with the Historic Motorsport Promoters group, contact Herlihy via email at president@hmp.au

CRC Evapo-Rust Spray Gel

Whether you’re breathing new life into a vintage classic, keeping your weekend cruiser in top shape, or restoring old tools to their former glory, CRC Evapo-Rust makes it easy. Safe, effective, and hassle-free!

CRC Evapo-Rust spray gel clings to rust, even on hard-to-reach areas.

Safe on paint, chrome, and rubber. Non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe on skin.

CRC Evapo-Rust ready-to-use liquid

Ideal for soaking rusted car parts

Non-corrosive and reusable perfect for garage use.

PADDON+KENNARD

SECURE FOURTH STRAIGHT ARC WIN FOR 2025

Hayden Paddon and John Kennard have taken another significant step towards winning the EROAD Australian Rally Championship (ARC) title, after a dominant weekend at the Copyworld Adelaide Hills Rally, winning both heats on Saturday and Sunday, as well as gaining 100 points heading into Buckby Motors Rally Tasmania, the final of the ARC for 2025.

The Championship leaders, Paddon and Kennard won four consecutive stages on the second day of action, capping off a strong weekend ahead of Lewis Bates and Anthony McLoughlin, who needed to finish second overall for the weekend to continue the 2025 title fight into the season finale next month.

Lewis and McLoughlin capped off a strong Sunday afternoon with a Power Stage victory as well, giving them important bonus points in the title race.

Harry Bates and Coral Taylor’s championship tilt suffered a major blow, after Bates crashed during stage 7, putting them out for the rest of Saturday. The pair finished Heat 2 in fourth on Sunday.

While Paddon and Kennard comfortably sealed the victory on Sunday to earn the weekend sweep, the leading Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia GR Yaris endured a challenging Heat 2 battle with the IntelliSpatial Fleet Racing Hyundai i20N of Alex Rullo and Steve Glenney, with their day-long battle eventually decided by just 15 seconds.

Rullo and Glenney finished third overall across both days trailing the pacesetters by a minute and a half.

Clayton Hoy and Erin Kelly edged closer to the WOLF Production Cup title after a convincing performance in their Mitsubishi Evo 6, finishing fourth overall in Heat 1 and fifth overall in Heat 2, placing them fourth outright for the entire rally and acquiring 59 championship points in the process.

While Paddon was happy to win the 100 points for the weekend, he indicated a championship win was not guaranteed, with Bates and McLoughlin still within striking distance.

“Being 85 points in front isn’t really a position you like to be in,” Paddon added.

“I’d have preferred to either be closer or have the title wrapped up, because then you can go to Tassie and just push. But now, being in this

position, we have to finish seventh or better.

“You’ll probably hear every little rattle and bang in the car all weekend. It makes it a lot more stressful than it probably should be.”

Bodie Reading and Brad Jones rounded out the top five for the weekend after finishing Heat 1 in fifth and seventh in Heat 2 - adding 52 championship points to their season total.

If Paddon and Kennard, who sit on 470 points for the year, can win next month’s Buckby Motors Rally Tasmania, it would mark fivestraight wins to close out the season.

It would also mark the end of a dominant run of championship wins for the Bates family, with Harry (3) and Lewis (1) winning the past four ARC championships dating back to 2019.

Lewis Bates and McLoughlin sit on 385 points, while Harry Bates and Coral Taylor boast

AUSTRALIANS SHINE AT ASIA PACIFIC MOTORSPORT CHAMPIONSHIP ///

Australian motorsport representatives Aaron Wuillemin, Corinne East-Johnston, Reece McIntosh and Marcus Watson have represented the country with pride, competing at this year’s Asia Pacific Motorsport Championship.

The Championship was held over 26-28 September in the city of Bandaragama, Sri Lanka.

As part of the Asia Pacific Motorsport Championship, East-Johnston, Wuillemin and McIntosh participated in the second round of the Asia Auto Gymkhana Championship.

McIntosh was able to find an abundance of success in the auto gymkhana, clocking a P4 in qualifying and then again in the final. Wuillemin placed 12th in qualifying and 12th in the final.

East-Johnston was in fine form through qualifying, acquiring a P1 and a P2 in both of her qualifying runs, before finishing fourth in the final.

The weekend was far from over for East-Johnston, with the New South Wales-based driver then securing a gold medal in the Asia Pacific Motorsport Championship’s Auto Gymkhana Women’s Event, overcoming the best drivers in the Asia-Pacific region to win the finals after running the course in 56.297 seconds, edging out Tarushi Vikram by seven tenths of a second.

The gold medallist noted how tough the competition was on the international stage.

“The competition overseas is always extremely tough, and going head-to-head with the best drivers from across the Asia Pacific really pushed me to lift my performance,” East-Johnston said.

“To come away with gold is just incredible. It’s the result of years of dedication and support from so many people in my life, and I’m so grateful for that.

“I could not have achieved this without the unwavering support of my mother and father, Phillip and Dianne East, and my incredibly supportive children and family.

“I was lucky enough to have my husband Chris and sister Lauren here in Sri Lanka with me, which made the victory even more meaningful.

“A huge thank you also goes to my very supportive teammates Aaron, Reece and Marcus - having them alongside me was invaluable.”

McIntosh and Wuillemin also took part in the Asia Pacific Motorsport Championship’s Karting Slalom competition.

McIntosh finished the tournament with a P5 in qualifying, 21 spots ahead of Wuillemin. McIntosh then placed sixth in the final to cap off a terrific weekend in Sri Lanka.

Australia’s Esports representative Marcus Watson also enjoyed a solid weekend in Sri Lanka.

Watson got off on the right foot securing a P8 in qualifying. Watson’s form then improved, finishing second in the Quarter Final’s qualifying session and then third in the race.

Watson then doubled up on his runner-up finishes in Semi-Final qualifying and again finished in the top three to lock in a spot in the Final.

After finishing qualifying with a time of 1:19.906 and locking out the second row on the grid in fourth, Watson held a steady nerve to finish sixth in the final, with Japan’s Sota Muto taking home the gold medal.

To take part in future Esports Championship events permitted by Motorsport Australia, head to the Motorsport Australia Esports website to obtain your Motorsport Australia Esports licence.

PERCIVAL STILL IN THE HUNT FOR OFF ROAD CHAMPIONSHIP

Western Australian driver Jared Percival has acknowledged a lot would need to go right at October’s Black Diamond Drilling Kalgoorlie Desert Race to steal the outright BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC) off fellow statesmen Travis and Beau Robinson, but the Pro Buggy driver is already extremely proud of season put together so far.

Percival, competing in a second AORC season after a stunning runner-up outright championship finish in 2024, has again remained amongst the top of the pack, sitting third in the outright driver standings with just one event to go in 2025.

Percival has 1596 points in the Driver Championship Standings after four consecutive finishes inside the top six, trailing outright leader Travis Robinson (2374 points) and brother Beau (2044 points).

With championship points being boosted by 50 per cent at the final stop on the calendar, and a maximum points haul of 1050 points on offer for anyone who can secure the outright course and prologue times, it keeps Percival in the hunt for a major upset.

“It’s a bit of a long shot to get the outright championship, but it’s been a very positive championship season to this point, one that I can be proud of at least,” Percival said.

“The immediate focus right now is to finish the championship off strong and there’s the potential to get a third-straight class win which would be quite a good achievement in itself.

“I’ve done the Kalgoorlie course before, which will help a lot with that experience, but the main focus will be to get through the event in good shape.”

Percival has held a tight grip on the Pro Buggy category since his runner-up class finish at the Finke Desert Race, bouncing back from sixth place class result at the Pooncarie Desert Dash.

Percival has since collected two class wins, first at the Loveday 400 and then most recently at the St George 399.

The West Australian said the recent run of form has not been the result of any particular changes, but credited to a consistent approach to understanding each course and making sure preparation is done correctly.

“It hasn’t been one thing that I’ve focused on since the start of the year, just focusing on each race as they come, that’s all you can do really,” Percival said.

“Finke was obviously a good part of the year getting that runnerup finish in the class, and then to

get some positive results at the next two stops was great too.

“The more experience you have behind the wheel in the off road championship is really valuable, so with this being my second season doing these courses, it has helped a lot.”

Percival will also welcome a third different navigator into the neighbouring seat, after collecting class wins with South Australians Matthew Gallasch and Josh Howat.

In Kalgoorlie, it will be fellow Western Australian and 2019 Western Australian Off Road Champion Darren Agrela who provides a great level of professionalism for Percival with a good knowledge of the course.

New South Welshman Paul Tuck-Lee (1334 points) and Queenslander Cooper Western (1144 points) both remain a mathematical possibility to win the Pro Buggy class, pending positive outcomes.

To see the full entry list for the 2025 Black Diamond Drilling Kalgoorlie Desert Race, to be held on 24–26 October, head to aorc.com.au/kalgoorlie.

AUSTRALIAN OFFROAD CHAMPIONSHIP

Terry Hill Photography

TAYLOR & HANSEN

WIN FIA EXTREME H WORLD CUP

Australian Rally Champion Molly Taylor has claimed the inaugural FIA Extreme H World Cup alongside Swedish teammate Kevin Hansen, making motorsport history in Qiddiya City, Saudi Arabia.

The Extreme H World Cup, the first ever FIAsanctioned hydrogen-powered event, took place over three days of competition featuring 16 of the world’s finest off road racers, representing eight teams.

Taylor, driving for Jameel Motorsport in a Pioneer 25 machine equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell, traversed parts of the Saudi Arabian desert across three different racing disciplines.

Thursday’s Time Trials preceded Friday’s Head-toHead battles, before the Multi-Car heat format built towards Saturday's FIA Extreme H World Cup Final.

Taylor and Hansen finished second on the opening day of Time Trials before the dynamic duo cemented their charge by winning five Head-to-Head races on Friday.

A further triumph followed in the opening Multi-Car Heat, which ultimately rewarded Jameel Motorsport with pole position for the Final – a first-ever eight car extreme race.

Hansen opened the final strong to pull clear of the pack, before handing over the car to Taylor, who did not look back as the Saudi Arabian squad took the chequered flag more than seven seconds clear of the chasing group.

Taylor remarked winning the very first FIA Extreme H World Cup felt incredible.

“There were so many unknowns competing across three different disciplines, so it has been an intense week,” Taylor said.

“Our team did an amazing job, Kevin always does an amazing job. This one feels like the sweetest trophy I've ever had.

“We are so grateful to Jameel Motorsport for backing us, we have been feeling all the support of everyone here in Saudi Arabia.

“To be part of the first ever hydrogenpowered racing championship and to stand on the top step is incredibly special. This series represents the future of motorsport; competitive, innovative, and purpose-driven; and I’m proud to have played a role in its first chapter.”

FIA Road Sport Director Emilia Abel reflected on a successful first-ever FIAsanctioned hydrogen-powered event.

“It’s been a great week here in Saudi Arabia –many congratulations to Molly and to Kevin and everyone at Jameel Motorsport,” Abel noted.

“They should be very proud to be the first ever FIA Extreme H World Cup winners. The SAMF, Extreme H promoter and all of the teams and drivers have put on a fantastic show.”

The win for Taylor adds to the Australian’s ever-glowing resumé in innovative motorsport events, following on from her inaugural Extreme E Championship win in 2021.

" TO BE PART OF THE FIRST EVER HYDROGEN-POWERED RACING CHAMPIONSHIP AND TO STAND ON THE TOP STEP IS INCREDIBLY SPECIAL. THIS SERIES REPRESENTS THE FUTURE OF MOTORSPORT; COMPETITIVE, INNOVATIVE, AND PURPOSE-DRIVEN; AND I’M PROUD TO HAVE PLAYED A ROLE IN ITS FIRST CHAPTER."

TAYLOR & HANSEN

Qiddiya

AUSTRALIA’S REPRESENTATIVES ANNOUNCED FOR

INAUGURAL FIA ARRIVE AND DRIVE WORLD CUP

Karting Australia announces that Hamish Campbell and Harry Bresnehan have been selected as Australia’s representatives for the inaugural FIA Karting ‘Arrive and Drive’ World Cup, to be held at the LYL International Circuit in Malaysia from 14–16 November 2025.

Campbell will line up in the Junior category (ages 12–14). The Gold Coaster has enjoyed a standout season, finishing runner-up in the Australian Kart Championship, representing Australia in the FIA Karting Academy Trophy, and recently securing victory in the Rotax National Cup.

Tasmania’s Bresnehan will contest the Senior category (ages 14–19) after a breakout year in which he emerged as one of the front-runners in the Australian Kart Championship, highlighted by a career-best second place at the final round earlier this month.

The FIA ‘Arrive and Drive’ World Cup is a landmark initiative under the FIA’s Global Karting Plan. All competitors will race in identical karts supplied by the OTK Kart Group, ensuring a level playing field where driver skill is the decisive factor.

In addition to world-class competition, the Senior category winner will receive a scholarship to support their progression into FIA Formula 4, while the Junior category winner will earn a budget contribution towards their next season in an FIA Karting Championship.

Karting Australia Chief Executive Officer Kelvin O’Reilly believes the selection of Campbell and Bresnehan will highlight the young talent in Australian karting.

“Hamish and Harry have both shown exceptional ability and professionalism throughout 2025. Their results speak for themselves, and we are confident they will represent Australia with honour at this event,” O’Reilly said.

“We’re excited to see both drivers take on the world’s best in Malaysia at an event where every competitor has equal equipment and success comes down to pure racing talent.

“Their selection will be another opportunity to seeing more Australians excelling on the world stage in karting and beyond, thanks to the foundation they’ve built in the Australian Kart Championship.

“The highlight is not only Oscar Piastri’s rise to Formula 1, but also achievements right across the ranksincluding James Anagnostiadis’ impressive fourth place in the World OK Championship last month.”

The FIA Arrive and Drive World Cup will feature Junior and Senior categories, each with a capacity 54-drivers entered in each.

GEORGIA BOLTON

GEORGIA BOLTON QUICK-THINKING OFFICIAL GETS THE JOB DONE

Shannons SpeedSeries official Georgia Bolton’s experience came to light at this year’s EVENTelec GT Festival Queensland. The first-year pit lane marshal was seconded into Race Control when an unexpected need arose for a light panel operator.

Bolton quickly adapted to the situation and picked up her new duties for the job at hand.

With no prior experience in a Race Control role, Bolton was able to shift her focus quickly and apply specific protocols, including Safety Car and Red Flag procedures when instructed.

Bolton’s nominator described her as knowledgeable, fast learning and adaptable.

The event also marked 12 months since she first began her officiating journey at the 2024 Shannons SpeedSeries EVENTelec GT Festival Queensland event.

Bolton also completed the Bronze Circuit licence assessment at the NTI Townsville 500 Supercars event.

Working predominantly within pit lane, Bolton has been able to perfect her craft and has since started training newer officials at events.

Georgia has also started her journey as a Steward. Furthermore, at the GC500 event in 2024, Georgia was awarded the Gold Race Officials award for the event.

To thank Georgia for her invaluable contribution to the sport, she will receive a $100 Supercheap Auto gift card, commemorative pin and certificate.

Do you know someone like Georgia; a Motorsport Australia official who deserves to be recognised for going above and beyond their duty?

Nominate now and your friend could win a $100 Supercheap Auto gift card, commemorative pin, and certificate - with their story shared in Speed Read.

SUBMIT NOMINATION

THE

A GEM WITHIN MOTORSPORT

A simple, yet exciting, discipline of motorsport, hill climb asks competitors to drive as quickly as possible over a short course from a start point to an end point that, as the name suggests, is usually at a higher elevation. Hill climb venues are also etched into Australia’s motorsport folklore across various states and territories around the country.

Fabled facilities include the likes of Bryant Park in Yallourn, Victoria, or South Australia’s Collingrove Hillclimb location to name just a couple. Hill climb events may also use sections of permanent circuits like at Bathurst’s Mount Panorama Circuit or Baskerville Raceway in the Tasmanian town of Old Beach. Hill climb can equally use closed sections of public roads to host events.

Hill climb events attract an incredibly diverse range of cars. At the elite level, competitors use Formula 1-style open wheelers, while at the beginner level, hill climb caters to every day road-friendly vehicles.

2022 Motorsport Australia Hill Climb Champion, Dean Tighe, has been part of the hill climb community since a young age, largely due to the fact his father Ivan has deep connections to the sport, including winning the Hill Climb Championship in 1964, 1985 and 1991.

Tighe said the hill climb community is extremely welcoming and close-knit, outlining how hill climb forms a valuable part of the Australian motorsport landscape.

“I started running hill climbs as soon as I could drive, I started running cars at my local level events early on, that’s the best way to get introduced to hill climb," Tighe said.

HILL CLIMB IS ONE OF THE EASIEST AND MOST AFFORDABLE WAYS TO GET INTO MOTORSPORT.

Vehicle wear and tear at a hill climb is less than that of a typical track day, thanks to the short duration and lower speeds, and this also allows easier participation with the vast majority of road cars fit for hill climb duties.

Safety requirements are easily met and can be found across Schedules B and D in the Motorsport Australia Manual's Technical Appendix. A Speed licence is the minimum required to compete in hill climb.

Junior speed licences are also valid, meaning anyone from the age of 14 years and over is eligible to compete.

“In terms of leaning into, I guess the entry-level competitions, encouraging people to try hill climb at that basic level, we try to emphasise that community togetherness and when clubs host their own events and host inter club events as well, it’s always a fantastic occasion.

“You are also able to go back and have a look at who has won the national Hill Climb Championship, it really is a who's who of people that used to run, which is also a great part of our sport.”

To get started in hill climb, sign up to be a member of a club and apply for a Motorsport Australia Speed licence.

Safety is Motorsport Australia’s number one priority and event-specific safety requirements will be available through your club upon registration.

Seven70 Photography

HILL CLIMB THREE-PEAT FOR AMOS GR55B

East Lismore’s Dean Amos has secured his third-straight SupaService Tyre and Auto Motorsport Australia Hill Climb Championship, clocking the outright win following a sublime run on the final day of action at Shell V-Power Motorsport Park in South Australia.

Amos, driving the Gould GR55B, blew the competition out of the water on the 1.9km section of the venue’s East Course with a supreme seventh run on Sunday amounting to 43.33 seconds, beating the next quickest driver, 2022 Champion Dean Tighe and his Empire, by more than two seconds (45.60 seconds).

The win for Amos adds to his illustrious track record in the discipline, following on from Motorsport Australia Hill Climb Championship wins in 2024 and 2023. It also marks the first time a competitor has won three years in a row since Malcolm Oastler accomplished the feat from 2014 to 2016.

Phil Heafey sealed the 3D Sports Sedan 4WD title with 53.92 seconds. Just one one-hundredth of a second separated Matthew Brown’s Audi TT from Nick Streckeisen’s GTR heading into the shootout. Both went quicker, but the Audi’s 54.47 seconds edged out the GTR’s 54.50 to claim victory.

The 2A Sports Cars (c) 2001–4000cc battle was equally close, with Todd Carruthers pipping Sean Day.

Julian Newton held firm in the 3C Rally Cars AWD division, his Evo fending off a spirited WRX challenge of Russell Greenham. Martin Farkas took out the 3C Rally Cars 2L+ trophy, delighting the crowd with his BMW M3.

43.33 SECONDS

Amos’ weekend was solid throughout, nailing a 45.19 seconds climb to open Saturday before curtailing his time down to 44.18 on run three, the quickest time on Day 1. His performance on Day 2 also claimed him a class win in the Formula Libre (d) 2001cc and over category.

Eventual runner up, Tighe had a strong weekend despite not claiming the outright win. The Queenslander was timed over 48 seconds just once over his seven runs, ultimately clocking his fastest run on his final attempt.

Fellow Queenslander Warwick Hutchinson rounded out the outright podium in the OMS28, finishing a fastest run of 47 seconds flat during his sixth of eight attempts.

In the Time Attack (d) Open 4WD class, tin-top ace and South Australia local Dan Day could only complete one Sunday run after the SJ1000 was sidelined. However, his 51.08 climb from Day 1 proved enough to clinch the Open 4WD Time Attack crown.

Douglas Johnson (Subaru GC8), Damien Brand (Subaru STI) and Mirko Grbic (Mitsubishi Evo 7) all lifted their pace on Sunday, with standout laps of 52.38, 53.40 and 53.71 respectively.

In 2B/2F Production Sports 3L+, Jason Perkins stopped the clock at 56.90 seconds in his Lotus Exige.

Time Attack stalwart Stanley Gong saved his best for last, hustling his Evo to a Clubsprint 4WD win from Oliver Taylor’s Audi.

Young gun Charlie Evans not only achieved his goal of outpacing his dad, but also secured the 3J Improved Production 3L–6L crown and Fastest Junior honours in his Commodore.

Of the two EV contenders, Mike Poljonker’s Kia outpaced David Sargent’s Hyundai. In Road Cars 2L–4L, Greg Keene and his impressive GT4 RS were in a league of their own, finishing with a 59.24 seconds.

A tight contest unfolded in 3D Sports Sedans 3L–6L, where Matthew Evans (Commodore) and Glen Latter (RX7) both set personal bests on their final attempts. Evans’ 60.07 seconds narrowly beat Latter’s 60.11 seconds to claim the win.

Eight women tackled the course across the weekend, but it was in the second-last run where each of the competitors shone.

Emma Branum topped the group with a superb run in her WRX Rally Car, while Tania Langcake’s striking purple GC8 was timed close behind.

For full results, visit the Motorsport Australia’s Hill Climb Championship website

DRIVE LIKE A GIRL MOLLY

TAYLOR’S STORY SO FAR

Australian rally driver and world champion athlete Molly Taylor shares a behind-the-scenes look at her career in motorsport through a new documentary Drive Like a Girl.

She first got behind the wheel at her father Mark’s rally school before quickly making her mark, winning back-toback F16 class titles in the Australian Rally Championship in 2006 and 2007.

Produced by MaD Garage and Unleaded Films, Drive Like a Girl premiered earlier this month on 7mate and 7plus, and provides insight to Taylor’s story so far - the ups and downs of motorsport, the steadfast community that makes it all possible, as well as the often untold sacrifices made to maintain a career behind the wheel.

Taylor, who recently returned from Saudi Arabia where she and co-driver Kevin Hansen won the inaugural FIA Extreme H World Cup, reflected on the production of the new documentary as a major milestone in her career.

“It’s something we've been working for about two years, so for it to see the light of day is a special thing,” Taylor said.

“We wanted to show not only our season last year in rally and Extreme E, but also a behind the scenes that goes into making motorsport happen, all the high and the lows, the nights in the workshop, the teamwork and all of the people that volunteer their time to make it happen.

“Just trying to be a fly on the wall and offer a unique perspective, one that covers our experience in motorsport.”

Molly Taylor grew up in a rallying family, with her mother Coral a six-time Australian Rally Champion co-driver.

At just 20-years-old, Molly moved to the UK to chase her dream, earning a place in the Pirelli Star Driver Program and competing in the World Rally Championship Academy.

She went on to become the the first woman to score a Junior WRC podium, and a consistent force in European rallying.

Taylor continues to compete internationally while also championing opportunities for women in motorsport and inspiring the next generation of drivers, partially through her work as a mentor in Motorsport Australia Girls on Track program, and most recently through the new documentary.

“Everyone’s experience will be different, but I think hopefully it sheds light on conversations and perspectives that haven’t really been spoken about because there just hasn’t been as many women in motorsport and we’re getting more and more, which is fantastic,” Taylor added.

“We’ve still got a lot of work to do, so hopefully we can be a big part of that change and make a space where more women can have more fulfilling and longer careers in motorsport.”

MASTERS

Y O U R R A C E . Y O U R S T Y L E .

CREATE YOUR OWN SPARCO RACE SUIT WITH RACER INDUSTRIES.

Take control of your look on the track with Sparco’s CustomEasy app. and design a suit that is all yours.

/ Five models to choose from

/ Multiple design options for each model

/ Huge range of colour combinations

/ Standard or custom sizing

/ Add logos for the perfect finish

5 STEPS. ONE SUIT. 100% YOURS.

Need a custom one-off design not available on Custom Easy? Talk to our sales team.

Andrew Ryan/Australian Muscle Car Masters

FEENEY’S BATHURST STUMBLE

COSTLY FOR PRESTIGIOUS AWARD

Broc Feeney’s mid-race misstep in the Bathurst 1000 could prove pivotal in what is now a three-way battle for this year’s Motorsport Australia Gold Star Award.

The Supercars points leader was in the thick of the fight for the win at Mount Panorama until he crashed at Forrest’s Elbow on lap 124.

Undaunted, he charged back from a lap down to secure sixth place for he and co-driver Jamie Whincup.

However, it means he misses out on pivotal bonus points towards the Gold Star.

Reimagined this year by a pointscore method after years of being awarded to Australia’s champion driver in various eras of single-seater racing, this year’s Gold Star can be won by a driver from a range of different categories.

The season-long chase to determine Australia’s champion driver of 2025 sees drivers from all forms of circuit racing scored based on their positions in championship standings, combined with performances in high profile, marquee events.

One of those is the Bathurst 1000, with 10 bonus points on offer to the winning driver.

However, with race winner Matt Payne hailing from New Zealand, the Bathurst win bonus points will go unawarded as only Australian drivers are eligible to score Gold Star points.

Feeney is one of three drivers that remain in contention for the prestigious award this year.

Oscar Piastri continues to lead the Gold Star live leaderboard on 120 points courtesy of his position atop the Formula 1 World Championship driver standings.

Also within striking distance is sportscar ace Matt Campbell, who was crowned as this year’s IMSA GTP Champion after the Petit Le Mans season finale on Saturday.

The Warwick-born racer is now guaranteed 50 Gold Star points for his IMSA title success.

However, Campbell sits second overall in the current Gold Star standings on 102 points, courtesy of the 52 points he earns for sitting sixth in the FIA World Endurance Championship.

But with one WEC round remaining in Bahrain, and Campbell not a series regular, his Gold Star points tally could drop depending on where he winds up in the final standings.

The same is true for Piastri: should he finish second in the F1 standings, his haul will drop to 92 points, or as low as 80 if he slips to third.

That means Feeney is still in contention, with his maximum potential haul being 85 points if he can win both the Supercars and GT World Challenge Australia titles.

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA GOLD STAR TOP 5 LEADERBOARD

– AS OF OCTOBER 14, 2025

1. OSCAR PIASTRI (120 POINTS)

2. MATT CAMPBELL (102 POINTS)

3. BROC FEENEY (78 POINTS)

4. WILL BROWN (40 POINTS)

5. RYLAN GRAY (40 POINTS)

BATHURST LIGHT CAR CLUB

John Whyte has emerged victorious at the Flying Fifth, with the event returning to Bathurst’s Conrod Straight for the first time in five year s.

The annual sprint event had not been hosted by the Bathurst Light Car Club for half a decade, leaving a big hole in the club’s yearly calendar until this year.

Bathurst Light Car Club President Neville Ling said it was encouraging to feel the atmosphere was full of excitement.

“We could not have asked for a better day for the event. The weather was perfect and the competitors were very positive,” Ling reflected.

“It was great to see a huge field and a great range of vehicles. It’s been a few years since we’ve run this format but it’s great to see it back and being well patronised.

“The passion of our competitors is stronger than ever.”

The event itself directs participants to take a flying start, before negotiating a timed section of one fifth of a kilometre, 200 metres, at their fastest possible speed in the shortest possible time.

The outright winner on the day went to Bathurst local John Whyte in his HSV VE Clubsport R8.

“It’s supercharged, big cam, runs E85, about 700 horsepower, a bit over,” Whyte stated.

“It’s faster than what I thought it would be, but I always knew it was going to be good”

Whyte managed to complete the challenge in 2.98 seconds at an average speed of 248.28 kmph to win the event outright.

Closely behind Whyte, was Len Manvell who clocked a time of 3.01 seconds with an average speed of 239.20 kmph in his Holden VE SS Ute, and Mark Eshman in his Chevrolet Camaro reaching a time of 3.21 seconds and an average speed of 224.30 kmph.

“Overall, it was a very successful day and a very successful event for the club” Ling added.

The 2025 major events are not completely over for the Bathurst Light Car Club, who will host its ‘The Speed Weekend’, on 1-2 November. The weekend will involve a Supersprint event on the Saturday and the Mountain Straight Hillclimb on the Sunday.

To express the interest in becoming an official for the event, head to motorsport.org.au/officials or contact Ling directly on 0416 226 755.

WHEN IT WON’T BUFF OUT...

Australian made, professional grade, refinish paint system. Over 100,000 automotive factory paint colours available to be mixed in store at any Supercheap Auto in Australia.

LEARN MORE

CONTACT US

Member Services 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

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.