Torque of the Town Issue 1-2026

ISSUE 1, 2026

OF THE TOWN

COURTNEY PRINCE

VALE MAUREEN SCERRI

CHALLENGE BATHURST FREYED NERVES

SOUTH COAST DRIVE BATHURST ROAD TRIP DX1 DX2 MOTORKHANA 5, 1 CANTERBURY BMW

WORTHINGTONS BMW TECH TORQUE

Upcoming

EVENTS

For the most up-to-date schedule please check the BMW Drivers Club NSW Website as events are added regularly

Social

Motorsport

13 March

Escape to Shoalhaven

4 July

Christmas in July Historics Drive & Escape

DRIVER EXPERIENCE: 1 Aug DX.3

Amaroo circuit night - Driver Experience

Join the Nationals Sub-Committee!

DX.3 Driver Training

19 Apr SS.1

Supersprint Gardner Circuit + Track Day

The BMW Drivers Club NSW Committee is seeking enthusiastic members to join our Nationals SubCommittee.

14 Jun SS.2

Supersprint Gardner Circuit - BMW / Porsche Challenge - PCNSW Host

27 Sep SS.3

Amaroo circuit day - Might drop this one and have SS on 6 Dec. Could be Family Track Day or DX.4.

18 Oct SS.4

Supersprint Gardner - SuperFest including car show and Parade Laps

This is a pivotal event in the BMW Clubs Australia calendar, and we need a dedicated team to help organise and deliver an unforgettable experience for members across the country.

If you’re passionate about BMWs and would like to contribute your skills, ideas or time, we’d love to have you involved.

To express your interest, please contact the committee today! nationals@bmwclubnsw.asn.au

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Issue 1 2026 | TORQUE

SUPERSPRINTS:

MOTORKHANA CHAMPIONSHIP: 17 May MK.2

Sydney Motorsport Park Skidpan

26 Jul

MK.3

Sydney Motorsport Park Skidpan

4 Oct MK.4

Sydney Motorsport Park Skidpan

13 Dec MK.5

Sydney Motorsport Park Skidpan

T RQUE OF THE TOWN

ANDREW GREEN Editor andrew.green@bmwclubnsw.asn.au DENIS MAMO Art Direction denis@whitespaceconcepts.com.au

4

President / Ed

29 Bathurst Road Trip

5

Membership

32 DX1 - Skidpan

6

New Members

34 DX2 - Amaroo

7

Vale Maureen Scerri

8

Courtney Prince

12

Tech Torque

16

Challenge Bathurst

22 26

Canterbury BMW South Coast Drive

37 Freyed Nerves 38 Parade Laps 40 Worthingtons BMW 43 MK1 2026 46 Member Benefits

COMMITTEE JOHN COTTER President president@bmwclubnsw.asn.au IAN MCLACHLAN Vice President vicepresident@bmwclubnsw.asn.au RANDALL LUMBEWE Secretary secretary@bmwclubnsw.asn.au DAVID GILLIES Treasurer & Public Officer treasurer@bmwclubnsw.asn.au DAVID HOGG Membership Secretary membership@bmwclubnsw.asn.au RANDALL LUMBEWE HVS/CVS Registrar historic@bmwclubnsw.asn.au BOB WILLIAMS Motorsport Manager motorsport@bmwclubnsw.asn.au ASH SHERRY Social Events Manager clubevents@bmwclubnsw.asn.au PHILIP MIDDLEBROOK IT & Web Manager webmaster@bmwclubnsw.asn.au FREYA HOGG Merchandise Manager freya.hogg@bmwclubnsw.asn.au STEPHEN PAGE General Committee stephen.page@bmwclubnsw.asn.au

PRESIDENT John Cotter I know that 2026 is well underway already but, anyhow, welcome to our 2026 Club year.

2026 is already underway and has seen a host of well received events. We have already seen driver training events (both on-track and on the skidpan), a cars & coffee event, a motorkhana, a drive to Worthington BMW at Kariong followed by lunch in Woy Woy and a Tuesday lunch at Abbotsford. One weekend actually saw three different activities take place over the course of a single weekend. We really do have a very busy club with many diverse activities. If you have friends who have a BMW who are not members of our Club then tell them to get with The Programme and join the Club so that they can then truly enjoy their BMW ownership.

The Club is receiving great support from BMW and its dealer network so do call in at your friendly local BMW dealer, tell them that you are from the Club and have a chat with them about their great range of cars and about what may be in your motoring future. You don’t have to buy a car on the spot but I am sure that the dealers would be more than happy to know that, at some time in the future, you may be back to acquire your next “thrill of owning a BMW”.

We really do have a very busy club with many diverse activities.

We will shortly be holding another of our Members’ Gatherings (which may have already been held, depending on when this issue of Torque of the Town is printed and distributed) at which a number of your Committee members will be able to provide more detail on what else is in store during 2026. We have a very hardworking Committee which has more things in the pipeline for 2026.

At that meeting we will also be able to give details of the audits of Club finances that were carried out last year or we may have already done that, again depending on when this issue of Torque of the Town is printed and distributed.

The process of obtaining these reports turned out to be more long-winded than we had anticipated (made a little more complicated as it turned out that the actual auditor was situated in Brisbane even though the accounting firm involved is in Sydney) but we finally received the reports, which the auditor was happy with.

Don’t forget to have your pride and joy BMW ready for SuperFest at Sydney Motorsport Park on 18 October 2026 and then for the BMW Clubs Australia Nationals (hosted by the BMW Drivers’ Club NSW) at Mount Panorama, Bathurst from 18 March 2027 to 21 March 2027.

I hope to again see lots of our members at events this year.

One last thing -VACANT POSITION :-

We currently have a vacant position on the Club’s Committee which we would like to have filled by an enthusiastic person to help out our hard-working Social Manager.

The role is to be a person who can contribute to the Committee generally but also to specifically provide assistance and co-ordination with social events such as Club drives and the other varied events that Ash Sherry and others currently organise.

If this person could take over the Club drives entirely (but not the multi-day “Escapes”) then that would be ideal.

Ash Sherry could then put her whole focus on Escapes and SuperFest. Please contact Ash Sherry using the contact details in Torque of the Town to take this further.

John Cotter

EDITOR Andrew Green Just like that it’s 2026. This year for Torque of the Town we are going to be changing things up a little bit. The biggest change is Denis Mamo will be taking over all the design work for Torque of the Town. As we continue to improve the club magazine, I have found the workload has just become too much for me at times, so Denis will be stepping in to take a lot of the heavy lifting off me. Denis has always been an integral part of Torque of the Town lately but now he will be stepping up to do more and I am so thankful for that.

We finished off the year with the last Motorkhana as well as a number of Gen M events hosted by BMW dealerships which we saw many club members attending. The BMW Clubs Australia Nationals 2027 committee and I also visited 4

Issue 1 2026 | TORQUE

Bathurst to start shaping up the event which is going to be a great one.

The year has started off with a bang with three Motorsport events already including two come and try events and the first round of MotoKhana 2026. We also invaded Worthington BMW for some coffee then off for a central coast drive.

Most importantly I got to have a chat to an amazingly dedicated up and coming driver, Courtney Prince who many of you may have seen driving at BMW SuperFest last year.

Of course always remember what BMW is all about “Freude am Fahren” – Sheer Driving Pleasure”

MEMBERSHIP David Hogg Welcome back to the first Torque of the Town magazine for 2026. I know that by the time you are reading this, the year will be already a couple of months old, but Andrew and Denis will have been working on the magazine since December 2025 and I write this column in January!

I have repeatedly put out calls for members outside the Sydney area to help start Regional Chapters in their area – but to no avail. Message received and I will stop. It is a shame though, I live in Lake Macquarie and I helped start our group up here just over a year ago and we have about 30 members.

We meet every month for a coffee/cruise and lunch and some nice new friendships have been formed. We will continue with it as it grows each month. We will continue to report our outings in the magazine as that is what the essence of car clubs are to me – enjoying the company of like minded people with the same branded cars in social settings.

Meanwhile, our uptake of the digital magazine continues. We now have more than 10% of our members taking this option.

Merch Alert

This is fantastic as, with rising printing costs, companies constantly reviewing their advertising spend and everybody fighting with costs of living – it helps us to keep the printing costs under control and therefore not have to increase membership prices. If you haven’t gone digital, and are wanting to – simply log in and select the option from your membership profile, or send me a message and I will do it for you.

By the time this edition comes out our newly minted New Member of the Year and Geoff Holingshed Memorial Member of the Year Award will have been announced. This year we have changed the selection criteria so that it wasn’t simply a points based one depending upon how many events that a person attended, but also included objective consideration by the Executive Committee as to what the nominees had ‘given back’ to the Club – including things like volunteering at events like Superfest, as flag marshalls, assisting with drives etc. Congratulations to our winners.

Make sure you check out the new Merchandise page on the website: www.bmwclubnsw.asn.au/merchandise

Merch update for the next edition is that the new hoodies and jackets have hit the shop and selling fast.

We have some limited edition red hoodies that are selling quite well and there are limited numbers.

There are also navy and black coloured hoodies.

The hoodies are the AS Colour brand and they wear and wash very well. They don’t change shape in the wash.

The new soft shell jackets are black with aqua fleece inside. Very warm and fit very well.

$5

$30

$30

$20

$60

$25 $25

$80

$40

$40

$60

TORQUE | Issue 1 2026

5

New

MEMBERS Welcome to the BMW Drivers Club NSW

Robert

Dunston

Kris

Ravula

LIFE MEMBERS

Nicholas

Parella

Chris

Wiles

Chris Kingsland

Ghassan

Fatayerjo

Anthony

Crepulja

Carolyn Williams

Elizabeth

Clark

Daniel

Natoli

Bob Williams

Jeremy

Lynton

Steven

Chandler

Anthony

Nagel

Evan

Byrnes

Trevor

Prendergast

Greig

Hodgins

Harold

Gan

Greg

Woodhead

Gary Speechley

Blake

Grande

Paul

Edwards

John Comino

Lee

Rushworth

Yang

Duan

Waael

Mehana

Andrew

Antunovich

Jackie

Cheung

George

Zaharof

David Atkin

BMW FRIEND OF THE MARQUE John Comino #22 Heather Lambley #54 Bob Williams #148

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Issue 1 2026 | TORQUE

VALE

MAUREEN SCERRI Written by: Andrew Green Photos supplied by: Gerry Reis and John Comino It is with great sadness that the BMW Drivers Club of NSW marks the passing of Maureen Scerri, who passed away peacefully on the evening of 3 December, at home, surrounded by her beloved husband Arthur and family.

Maureen was a long-standing and deeply valued member of our club, serving for many years as Club Secretary — a role she carried out with dedication, warmth, and quiet professionalism. Her contribution to the life and spirit of the club extended far beyond administration. Maureen had a remarkable ability to connect with people, and she made a point of approaching everyone who attended an event, whether they were long-time members or first-time visitors. Her positivity and genuine kindness ensured that all felt welcome and included.

Those who knew Maureen will remember her as a constant, reassuring presence — someone who embodied the very best of what our club stands for: community, generosity of spirit, and shared passion. The work she gave to the club over many years was significant, and it was always offered with grace and a sincere desire to support others.

Maureen and Arthur were a true partnership in every sense.

Together, they formed a familiar and comforting presence at club events, working side by side to help ensure everything ran smoothly. Their teamwork reflected not only their commitment to the club, but also the deep bond they shared.

Above all else, Maureen was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She leaves behind her loving husband Arthur, her sons Colin and Paul, and their wives Sandra and Donna, along with six grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, with two more on the way. Her family was a source of immense pride and joy throughout her life.

Maureen’s legacy within the BMW Drivers Club of NSW is one of kindness, service, and heartfelt connection. She will be deeply missed, but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with Arthur and the Scerri family during this difficult time.

TORQUE | Issue 1 2026

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Meet Courtney

PRINCE Porsche Pink to BMW Power

Written by: Andrew Green Images supplied by: Courtney Prince

If you were at BMW SuperFest and spotted someone in a bold pink and white race suit, you probably wondered, “Who’s that?” That was Courtney Prince, and trust me, she’s not just there for the style points.

“I never had a female driver role model in Australia to look up to throughout my career. That’s my motivation today — to inspire young girls coming into the sport and show them that we can do it and take it to the guys.”

Even though some car troubles meant she only got a few laps in, her presence was impossible to miss. After the event, I caught up with Courtney to chat about her journey so far and what’s next on her racing horizon.

Making History, One Lap at a Time

From Backyard Dirt Bikes to Race Tracks Courtney’s story starts young—like, seven-years-old young—tearing around her family’s property in Melbourne on dirt bikes. When her parents said “no” to racing bikes (too dangerous), she spent a year convincing them to let her try karting instead. Once she got her hands on a Tony Kart, there was no turning back.

“I grew up on three acres in Melbourne with dirt bikes. I loved ripping around the property on them so much that I wanted to race, but my parents wouldn’t let me because it was too dangerous. They suggested go-karting instead. It took me over a year to convince them to buy me a Tony Kart — and from there, I never looked back.”

From those early days, Courtney worked her way up through the ranks, racking up countless race starts, plenty of podiums, and a reputation for being one of the most determined young drivers in Australia. She’s also passionate about being the role model she never had.

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Issue 1 2026 | TORQUE

2023 was a milestone year: Courtney became the first female driver to contest a full season of the Porsche Paynter Dixon Carrera Cup Australia Championship. Racing for Porsche Centre Melbourne Motorsport, she got to live out a dream she’d watched on TV for years.

“It was such a great experience to race at the highest level of Porsche in Australia after a successful Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge campaign,” Prince reflects. “To see the BWT cars in person was super cool — and to be the driver of one was a dream come true after watching them go around on TV in Europe for so many years.”

“Carrera Cup in 2023 was a super tight field, with sometimes only a few tenths separating the top 15. It was great, hard racing.”

2025: A Year of Variety Fast forward to 2025, and Courtney’s schedule was packed.

She raced in the Hi-Tec Oils Bathurst 6 Hour (Class B1, BMW F30 340i), the Monochrome GT4 Australia Series Silver Cup (Ginetta G56 GT4), and even tested a V8 Holden Commodore with Eggleston Motorsport—hinting at her Supercars ambitions.

COURTNEY PRINCE

TORQUE | Issue 1 2026

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FROM PORSCHE PINK TO BMW POWER

“2025 was my third Bathurst 6 Hour and the second one I’ve won,” she says. “I set the lap record in qualifying in the B1 class that year. All three Bathurst 6 Hours I’ve raced with Team Buccini alongside Karlie Buccini.”

“The passion and knowledge everyone has — people just out there having fun with no pressure — that’s what it’s all about.”

“Driving a Supercar for the first time in December was huge.

Now I’m just chasing the remaining budget to compete in Super2 for the 2026 season — that’s the pathway to Supercars.”

Off the track, Courtney is just as committed. She’s known for her pink Porsche livery and her honest, encouraging presence on social media. She’s all about making motorsport more inclusive and inspiring the next generation—especially young women.

SuperFest: More Than Just Laps Her drive in the RPM x Scuderia AutoArt G80 was a highlight for the BMW Drivers Club NSW crowd, even if it was cut short by overheating issues.

“It was my first time properly pushing a road car around a racetrack — except for a few hot laps in a Porsche GT4 road car, but I couldn’t fully push that one with passengers. It was such a fast, fun car to drive. I was surprised how well it handled for a car you can leave the track in and then drive home.”

“I only got two laps before we had overheating issues we couldn’t clear on the day, but I still had a lot of fun at the event.”

The G80 M3, prepped by RPM and Scuderia AutoArt, was a perfect match for her style—fast, sharp, and a standout with its white and red livery. Courtney attacked the track with her usual focus, showing off both the car’s potential and her own adaptability.

“It’s hard to compare it to a purpose-built race car, but I was surprised how well it went and how stable it was,” she explains. “We just made a slight change for understeer to sharpen the car up, and it drove really well.”

For Courtney, SuperFest was about more than just driving—it was about connecting with the BMW community, meeting new people, and sharing her passion.

“It was my first car fest, and I was shocked by how many people were there and how big everyone’s passion was for the BMW brand,” she says. “It was great to speak to owners of some very cool cars and meet a lot of new people in a different car scene.”

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Issue 1 2026 | TORQUE

More Than a Driver

“I encourage any young girl to pursue a career in motorsport — whether it’s media, engineering, or driving,” Prince says.

“You have to genuinely have a big passion for the sport and cars, because it’s a hard industry, and you’ll need that passion to push through and be successful.”

“There were a lot of times I could have stopped because of what people said to me when I was a young girl breaking into car racing at 16. I used that as motivation not to give up — to show them I can do what they can, but better.”

What’s Next?

With hundreds of race starts and a trophy cabinet that’s getting crowded, Courtney is focused on her next big goal: Supercars.

“My goal has always been to reach Supercars and do well in it,” she says. “The next step is to jump into Super2 and hopefully have two seasons there before moving up to Supercars.

Sponsorship plays a big part in that — it’s the bump in the road I’m working to overcome at the moment.”

“Outside of racing, I’m an industrial real estate agent. I sell and lease warehouses, which works really well alongside my racing, and I genuinely enjoy it.”

No matter what she’s driving—a GT4, Carrera Cup Porsche, V8 Supercar, or a BMW G80 at a festival—one thing’s for sure: when Courtney Prince is behind the wheel, she brings her A-game, her passion, and her purpose every single time.

COURTNEY PRINCE

TORQUE | Issue 1 2026

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Tech

TORQUE Prepping for the time of your life

Written by: Andrew Green Photos by: AJGreen Photography

Track Day Essentials Before the engine fires and the helmet visor drops, there’s a short but important checklist every driver must work through.

These aren’t just box-ticking exercises — they’re practical safety measures designed to protect you, your car, and the people around you. Here’s a straightforward guide to the key personal and vehicle requirements you need sorted before rolling into scrutineering.

Helmet: Your First Line of Protection An approved helmet is mandatory for all track sessions. Your helmet must comply with Motorsport Australia Schedule D and meet Australian Standard AS1698.

Ok so what does that mean in English? Motorsport Australia Schedule D is the technical regulations for all Apparel in motorsport, this covers all motorsport events from our club SuperSprints right up to Supercars Australia. This document ensures that everyone under Motorsport Australia are complying with the correct standards this included the requirement for helmets to meet Australian Standards and how to identify it.

Australian Standard AS1698 ensures your helmet has been tested for impact protection, retention strength, and overall safety performance. While many motorcycle helmets meet this standard, it’s always worth confirming compliance before the event. Motorsport retailers such as Revolution Racegear stock track-approved options and can help with correct sizing and fit — something that matters just as much as the certification itself.

What to Wear: Keeping It Simple and Safe You don’t need a full race suit to get on track, but you do need the right type of clothing.

Drivers must wear non-synthetic clothing that covers: •

From neck to wrist

•

From waist to ankle

A pair of jeans and a cotton long-sleeve shirt meet the minimum requirement. Shoes should also be non-synthetic.

While a race suit isn’t compulsory, many regular competitors choose one for the added fire protection and comfort, especially during longer sessions or warmer track days.

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Issue 1 2026 | TORQUE

TECH TORQUE

Fire Extinguisher: Small Item, Big Importance Every car must carry a fire extinguisher that is less than three years old and mounted securely inside the cabin. Key points to check: •

It must be fitted to a metal mounting bracket

•

It must be within reach of the driver while seated

• It must be solidly mounted to the car’s structure, not screwed into carpet or trim A popular and practical mounting location is under the front passenger seat using the seat mounting bolts. Approved extinguishers are inexpensive and easy to source, making this one of the simplest — and most important — safety upgrades you can make.

Tow Hooks: Planning for the “What If” Even the best-prepared cars can break down or get stuck.

That’s why front and rear tow couplings are required.

Most BMWs come with one tow hook from the factory.

You’ll need to purchase a second so both ends of the car are covered. These screw into the factory sockets located behind small bumper covers. Before arriving at the track, check that: •

Both hooks fit correctly

•

They are installed for scrutineering

This allows marshals to safely and quickly move your car if needed, keeping the track running smoothly for everyone.

Tyre Valve Caps: A Small Detail That Matters All tyres must be fitted with valve caps that include a secondary seal.

While this sounds minor, it’s a genuine safety requirement.

Metal valve caps are recommended, as some plastic versions don’t provide the extra sealing needed to meet regulations.

It’s a quick, low-cost fix that’s easy to overlook — and just as easy to get right.

Final Check These five items form the backbone of your personal and vehicle safety setup. Taking the time to prepare them properly at home means less stress at scrutineering and more time focused on what you came for — enjoying your BMW on the track.

TORQUE | Issue 1 2026

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MK5 2025 Sliding out of the year in style. 16 Nov 25

PLACE

CAR

DRIVER

BEST TIME

1st

22

Chris Benny

122.31

2nd

21

John Driver

123.23

3rd

16

Patrick Kong

123.56

4th

13

Alex Wong

124.31

5th

8

Paul Pettersen

128.12

6th

31

Sarith Pallwela

128.78

7th

25

Kyle Morrell

129.53

8th

12

Kent Ko

129.74

9th

10

Andrew Best

130.36

10th

20

Heon Lee

132.28

11th

27

Christophe Hinds

133.53

12th

7

Cameron Monk

136.31

13th

29

Jono Nuthall

136.71

14th

15

Jaymie Best

136.71

15th

9

Mark Daly

136.95

16th

23

Stuart Devine

137.53

17th

3

Adam Fish

137.58

18th

28

Philip Middlebrook

138.59

19th

26

Raymond Jebrine

139.85

20th

11

Edmund Li

140.98

21st

19

Adrijan Radikovic

143.78

22nd

6

Steve O'Callaghan

144.28

23rd

5

Nakhil Bhandari

147.19

24th

30

Daniel Nuthall

153.79

25th

14

Georgia Monk

156.56

26th

32

Tom FIsh

162.63

27th

1

Kyle Ferreira

173.14

28th

17

Dominique Oakes

186.13

29th

2

Dylan Ferreira

194.26

30th

18

Winston Loke

247.43

31st

4

Mark Robinson

262.31

32nd

24

Melody Li

262.31

Written by Alex Wong Photos by Victor Yee

The BMW Drivers Club of NSW enjoyed a fantastic day on the skidpan as Motorkhana Round 5 of the 2025 season unfolded at Sydney Motorsport Park, delivering close competition and impressive displays of car control across all classes.

A sincere thank you goes to all the drivers and volunteers who made the event a success. It was a memorable day of competition, camaraderie, and commitment to pushing both cars and skills to the limit.

TORQUE | Issue 1 2026

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CHALLENGE ACCEPTED Written by: Denis Mamo Photos by: Greg Tymms, Insyde Media, Denis Mamo

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TORQUE | Issue 1 2026

23 NOV 25 I arrived at Challenge Bathurst with that familiar mix of excitement and quiet dread: am I actually ready for this?

Bathurst isn’t just another track. It’s THE track. The one you’ve watched your whole life, memorised corner names for, and secretly wondered if you’d ever drive properly.

The first win happened before I even saw the circuit: I drove there and back in the car. I’d gone back and forth on whether I should truck it, but in the end I took a chance and committed to the road trip. Naturally, the universe tested that decision immediately - I set off early in the rain, which is not ideal when you’re rolling on semi-slicks. But the mindset clicked into place: calm hands, smooth inputs, zero heroics. I made it to Bathurst in one piece… and then very nearly didn’t start the weekend at all.

At a fuel stop, I helped a lady who’d lost her washer reservoir cap somewhere in her Audi’s engine bay. Quick search, good deed done - and in the process I managed to lose my own keys. If you want a concentrated hit of panic before a Bathurst weekend, that’ll do it. After a frantic scramble, I eventually found them lying on the petrol station forecourt where she’d been filling up. Lesson learned: Bathurst will test your composure before you even arrive.

Once I did roll in, I leaned hard into the best part of events like this - the people. I was surrounded by my extensive crew of one: Trevor Brown (fellow JPS Tribute owner and Bathurst local) was a legend all weekend, steadying the ship whenever my brain started inventing worst-case scenarios. Tim Boydle and Linda Boydle trekked down from Queensland and made the whole experience more fun and less intense, exactly what you want at a place like this.

And I want to be clear: I didn’t get to that start line on my own. In the lead-up, a handful of people helped me prepare properly and get the car (and my head) ready for a circuit that demands respect - Joshua Parsons, Chris Ferguson, Eric Jones, Dean How, Bob Williams, Daniel Groot and Stephen Page.

Advice, encouragement, practical help… all the little things that add up to you arriving with confidence instead of doubt.

I also met great people across the paddock- Greg Tymms and Andrew from the QLD contingent, plus a few club members from South Australia. The vibe was supportive and upbeat - lots of knowledge-sharing, lots of laughs, and that shared sense that we were all lucky to be there.

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CHALLENGE BATHURST

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Issue 1 2026 | TORQUE

23 NOV 25 I stayed at Rydges on the track, which deserves its own paragraph because it turns the weekend into a full immersion. You don’t just “go to” Bathurst - you live inside it. You look out and that’s Mount Panorama. It’s hard not to feel like a kid.

One thing that helped settle my nerves before the event was doing a proper shakedown. I ran the car at SuperFest Supersprint at Eastern Creek (Gardner circuit) and it behaved exactly how you want before a big weekend: it ran cleanly with no issues. Better still, I improved my time by seven seconds, which gave me confidence that the car was sorted and I was actually progressing. I even did the nerdy part afterwards - calculating the equivalent pace around Bathurst - just to make sure I’d be comfortably within the event’s time limits.

It sounds obsessive, but it was reassuring: I wasn’t arriving hoping to scrape in, I was arriving knowing I belonged on the grid.

Day One: Three Clean Sessions and a Constant “Is This Real?”

Saturday was everything I’d hoped for: three clean sessions on this iconic circuit. No drama, no interruptions, just that rare gift of consecutive laps where you can build confidence properly. The Mountain is exactly what people say it is: every corner is its own mini-challenge. You don’t “learn Bathurst” in one go - you collect it corner by corner, lap by lap, with respect.

The Mountain is exactly what people say it is: every corner is its own challenge.

What surprised me most was realising the car had more to give than I could extract - at least for now. That’s a good feeling, because it means you can progress safely without constantly flirting with the limit. I was also grateful - genuinely grateful - that I’d listened to Stephen Page and upgraded brake pads and fluid beforehand. Bathurst is not the place to wonder what your pedal will feel like at the end of a fast section.

Another thing that paid off massively: driving the track on Assetto Corsa beforehand. It doesn’t replace the real thing (nothing does), but it absolutely reduces the cognitive overload. Instead of arriving and trying to memorise the entire circuit, your brain already has a rough map - so you can spend your attention on the important stuff: reference points, grip changes, gradients, and managing traffic.

And yes, there was traffic. I was in a group with a Ferrari and what felt like a gaggle of M2s, and I spent plenty of time letting faster cars through. That’s part of it. The win for me wasn’t pretending I was quicker than I am - the win was staying smooth, holding my line, being predictable, and still TORQUE | Issue 1 2026

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CHALLENGE BATHURST seeing improvement each session as I experimented with different lines and gear choices.

And while I wasn’t out there taking risks, I still had those surreal “only at Bathurst” moments. Even as (probably) one of the slower cars in my group, I managed to see 200 km/h down Conrod Straight in a 46-year-old 6 Series. That’s the magic of this place: it’s iconic, it’s fast, and it makes you appreciate exactly what these old cars can do when they’re properly prepared.

Day Two: A Personal Best… Then a Reminder of Why the Rules Matter Sunday morning delivered the best session of the weekend.

Overnight rain, cool conditions, and a dry track by the time we went out made it feel crisp and confidence-inspiring. I tried a few different approaches and put down a 3:14, about four seconds quicker than the previous evening. That might not sound like much on paper, but at Bathurst it’s meaningful - especially when you’re learning.

What kept the whole weekend enjoyable for me was a simple approach: I took the driver briefing seriously, paid attention to the rules, and treated the flags like gospel. Bathurst rewards that mindset - and it also proves, very quickly, why it exists.

One lap heading up through The Cutting, I saw yellow flags waving vigorously. That section is blind and it’s steep, and you don’t get much time to think. Because I’d been drilled on it in the briefing - and because I made myself actually obey it - I slowed down properly. When the corner opened up, there was a car parked right on the blind part of the turn up the hill.

I made it through cleanly because I’d backed off enough.

In my mirrors, I then watched a Falcon arrive too hot, not slow enough, lose control completely, and slam 90 degrees into the wall. It was instant, violent, and sobering. That moment locked in a lesson I’ll carry forever: at Bathurst, the difference between “a good story” and “a very bad day” is often just discipline. Anyone who watched the Bathurst 12 Hour this year will appreciate the fact that you ignore waved yellow flags at your peril...

Then came the reality of track events: red flags. The next sessions were curtailed by incidents, and that wiped out the chance to put together another fully clean lap. One of those stoppages came from a Ferrari that, on a warm-up lap, got hard on the throttle and went sideways into the wall at relatively low speed. You can even find the clip on YouTube, but honestly the bigger point isn’t the entertainment value - it’s the reminder that Bathurst doesn’t care what you’re driving.

The Mountain only responds to inputs, grip, and judgement.

By the end of the weekend the feeling was simple: I’m definitely coming back next year to pick up where I left off. I left with more confidence, more respect for the track, and more appreciation for how quickly you can progress when you focus on fundamentals instead of ego.

And I left grateful - particularly to Trevor Brown, who kept it real and steady for me all weekend in the garage, and to Tim and Linda, who made the whole thing a joy to share. Huge thanks again to Joshua Parsons, Chris Ferguson, Eric Jones, Dean How, Bob Williams, Daniel Groot and Stephen Page.

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Also, a special nod to the kind of Bathurst moment you couldn’t script: at one point I was happily handing out my full “24 hours of motorsport experience” advice about tyre pressures to Greg, a polite senior gentleman… only to find out later he’d been a BMW factory driver in Europe and had won the Nürburgring 24 Hour multiple times. That’s motorsport for you - humbling, hilarious, and strangely wholesome.

So if Bathurst is on your list but you’re nervous: good. That means you respect it. Prepare properly, turn up with the right attitude, and you’ll find it’s not a mythical place reserved for professionals - it’s an iconic circuit that rewards patience, smoothness, and good judgement.

I’m still pinching myself. And I can’t wait to go back.

TIPS FROM A NOVICE What helped me (and what I’d recommend) Decide early: drive or trailer? Driving there adds pressure (and risk in bad weather), but it’s hugely satisfying if the car is reliable.

Have a wet-weather plan if you’re on semi-slicks.

Leave extra time, avoid standing water, be gentle on throttle and steering, and don’t rush early-morning cold tyres.

Upgrade brakes before you go. Fresh high-temp fluid + appropriate pads = confidence and consistency.

Simulator practice helps more than you think.

Assetto Corsa won’t teach grip, but it does teach flow, sequence, and reduces mental load on-track.

Log tyre pressures properly. Set cold pressures, check immediately after each session, write it down, and adjust in small steps. Consistency beats guessing.

Expect faster cars and be predictable. Hold your line, use mirrors, indicate early, and let people through cleanly - your learning accelerates when you stay calm in traffic.

Build pace session by session. Bathurst is a place to “earn speed,” not force it.

Pack for the human stuff. Hydration, snacks, a warm layer, rain gear, and a simple checklist reduce stress and stop silly mistakes.

Protect yourself from dumb problems. Keys on a lanyard, spares for basics, and a final “bonnet/fluids/ wheels” check before every session.

Stay close if you can. Rydges makes the weekend feel like a full immersion and keeps logistics easy.

Find a Trevor. A calm voice in your corner is priceless when your brain starts catastrophising.

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BMW

M CELEBRATION at Canterbury BMW

The BMW Drivers Club NSW recently enjoyed a wonderful morning celebrating the legacy and future of what is often called “the most powerful letter in the world.” Hosted

by Canterbury BMW in collaboration with Gen M Cars & Cappuccinos, the event was a masterclass in M-Division history, bringing together rare metal, deep technical knowledge, and a passionate community of enthusiasts.

Written by: Jim Haikalis Photos by: Jim Haikalis

Drawing significant attention was the ultra-rare E36 M3 R, the lightweight, racing-inspired variant developed specifically for Bathurst homologation. Alongside it, the now-modern classic 1M Coupe continued to prove why it has become one of the most sought-after M cars of the modern era.

From the moment members arrived, it was clear this would be more than a static display — it was a living timeline of BMW M’s past, present, and future.

Bringing M into the present — and future — were the G82 M4 CSL, the G82 CS Touring (Wagon), and the formidable G90 M5. These machines showcased just how far the brand has evolved, blending raw performance with cutting-edge technology and refinement.

The display floor unfolded as a chronological journey through some of the most iconic performance silhouettes ever to leave Munich. Each generation told its own story of engineering ambition and motorsport heritage.

Adding a distinct motorsport flavour to the lineup was the G80 M3 Race Control vehicle from the Shannons Speed Series — a fitting reminder of M’s continued presence both on and off the circuit.

A pristine E30 M3 and an elegant E24 M6 stood proudly as representatives of M’s formative years, reminding attendees where the brand’s motorsport DNA truly began — lightweight, purpose-driven, and unmistakably focused on performance.

A major highlight of the morning was the Pirelli technical stand, where representatives provided an in-depth look into the engineering behind their specialised BMW tyre compounds.

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CANTERBURY BMW M CELEBRATION

Members gained valuable insight into the importance of “Star-Marked” tyres — specifically developed to work in harmony with BMW’s suspension geometry and xDrive systems. The session offered practical takeaways for performance-oriented drivers, reinforcing how much tyre choice can influence handling, safety, and overall driving experience.

As always, the cars may have drawn the crowd, but it was the people who truly brought the morning to life.

In a heartwarming full-circle moment, Edwin K returned with his original, mint-condition E46 M3 — a car he purchased brand new from Canterbury BMW exactly 19 years ago. Seeing the car back at its “birthplace” in such flawless condition was a powerful reminder of the club’s shared passion for preservation and pride of ownership.

Doubling down on M-fever, Aasim arrived with not one, but two standout examples — his late-model F80 M3 CS and his newly acquired Imola Red E46 M3. The pairing perfectly bridged two very different eras of M philosophy.

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Our Motorsport Manager, Bob Williams, was on hand throughout the morning, connecting with members and enthusiasts alike, while keeping a keen eye on the technical presentations and motorsport-focused discussions.

Canterbury BMW went above and beyond as hosts, ensuring members were well looked after throughout the event.

Gourmet pastry baskets provided the perfect morning accompaniment, while chilled refreshments kept everyone energised as the sun made its appearance.

The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere made it easy for conversations to flow — whether about racing, restoration, or the next dream M car.

This collaboration created the perfect platform for the BMW Driver’s Club of NSW to connect with the wider BMW community. From the nostalgia of Edwin and Aasim’s beautifully preserved E46 M3s to the cutting-edge performance and technology of the latest G90 M5, the event captured the full spectrum of what the M brand represents.

It was a celebration not just of cars, but of history, engineering, and the passionate people who keep the spirit of M alive.

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Convoy time for

GEN M

A dealership adventure on the South Coast

To kick off what would become a truly fantastic day, our convoy gathered at the Waterfall Station entrance to the Royal National Park, engines idling and coffee cups in hand as members arrived one by one.

The biggest shock for all of us was the sudden and dramatic drop in temperature. Only the day before, we had been enjoying weather in the high 30s, and now we found ourselves wrapped up in jackets as the thermometer dipped into the high teens. The crisp air added a refreshing edge to the morning and set the tone for a scenic and memorable drive.

With a great mix of cars in the lineup, the convoy rolled out through the National Park and headed south toward the South Coast BMW dealership, taking in the sweeping coastal views along the iconic Seacliff Bridge. The drive itself was a highlight, with an M Coupe, a brand-new M2, and a Z4 M forming part of a convoy that turned heads and drew smiles from passers-by as the sound of performance engines echoed through the coastal landscape.

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Written by: Ash Sherry Photos by: Pointdot

Upon arrival at the dealership, we were warmly greeted by Samantha, the event organiser, who efficiently ushered us into our designated undercover parking area. My first impression of the dealership was immediate and lasting — state-ofthe-art, modern, and absolutely exquisite.

The clean architectural lines, polished finishes, and carefully curated showroom lighting created an atmosphere that felt more like a high-end gallery than a traditional car dealership.

I was genuinely excited to step inside and see not only the space itself, but the vehicles that awaited us on display.

After taking a few photos of the convoy and the neatly parked lineup, I headed inside and took a moment to truly appreciate the effort and planning that had gone into creating such a polished and welcoming event. The flow of the space, the placement of the displays, and the attention to detail all reflected a team that clearly takes pride in what they do.

07 DEC 25

True to the spirit of Cars & Coffee, one of the first things I noticed was the long line of people waiting for their morning pick-me-up. Not far away, another queue had formed at the catering canopies — and it quickly became clear why.

Samantha had done a truly exquisite job with the presentation. Martini glasses filled with yoghurt and fresh berries were arranged to mirror the iconic BMW M colours, adding a creative and elegant touch that perfectly complemented the Gen M theme of the day.

A personal highlight for me was meeting Kristian, the Dealer Principal, and being invited to view his private collection of vehicles on display within the showroom. The presentation was nothing short of impressive, featuring an array of rare and high-performance models that stopped members in their tracks. Standing proudly among them was the standout of the collection — the Valentino Rossi Edition M4.

This special edition car carries real significance, celebrating BMW M’s collaboration with legendary MotoGP champion Valentino Rossi. Finished in exclusive livery inspired by Rossi’s iconic racing colours and adorned with bespoke detailing, the M4 represents more than just performance — it embodies motorsport heritage, individuality, and the crossover between two of the world’s most passionate automotive and motorcycle cultures.

Seeing it up close was a genuine privilege and a reminder of how deep the M brand’s motorsport roots truly run.

With more than 50 club members in attendance, the event was a clear success, not only in numbers but in atmosphere.

Conversations flowed easily, new connections were made, and familiar faces caught up over coffee and shared stories among an impressive backdrop of performance machinery.

My sincere thanks go to the South Coast BMW team, particularly Samantha, Manny, and Kristian, for ensuring that our club and our members felt genuinely welcomed throughout the day. Their hospitality and attention to detail made a lasting impression, and I would strongly encourage all our members to stop in and visit the dealership the next time you are in the area.

Don’t forget to check out the fantastic motorsport display upstairs, which adds yet another layer of interest to an already impressive venue.

I very much look forward to our next event with the South Coast BMW team, and to continuing what has become a fantastic relationship between the dealership and the BMW Drivers Club NSW — built on shared passion, community, and a love of all things performance-driven.

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GEN M ON THE SOUTH COAST

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On the road again

BATHURST Scoping out the 2027 BMW Clubs Australia Nationals venue

Well before sunrise, I joined David Hogg on the road to Bathurst. For those who know David, you’ll be aware of the impressive collection of BMWs available for a road trip - so, naturally, we took a Mustang.

There was a special reason for this choice. While we were on our journey, in Melbourne, Allan Moffat OBE was being laid to rest at a state memorial service. The car we drove was the last vehicle Allan Moffat ever drove and helped design: a 2019 Ford Mustang GT – Tickford Trans-Am Build PP-001 (pre-production). It felt fitting to honour his legacy by taking this unique car on such a memorable trip, and it certainly added a sense of occasion to our journey.

Why is our trip to Bathurst significant for the club? This was a major step toward the BMW Clubs Australia Nationals 2027. After the BMW Nationals in 2025, John Cotter accepted the banner for our club to host the next nationals, and since then, preparations have been underway. Organising an event of this scale requires months—if not years—of planning, coordination, and dedication from many passionate club

Written by Andrew Green Images by AJGreen Photography

members. This Bathurst trip marked the next phase, with several face-to-face meetings planned for the upcoming event. It was a chance to see the venues firsthand, discuss logistics, and start shaping the experience we want to deliver for BMW enthusiasts from across the country.

After a long drive—complete with photos and laps of the track—we met up with Club President John Cotter and First Lady Alison Cotter. Our first stop was a meeting with Bathurst Council, where we discussed the opportunities and challenges of hosting a national event in such an iconic motorsport location. The council was supportive and enthusiastic, recognising the value that our event could bring to the local community. Afterward, we couldn’t resist taking a few more laps around the circuit. I’m sure we disappointed the Highway Patrol on Conrod Straight as a bright red Mustang and M2 cruised past at just 60 km/h, but we were there to savour the moment, not break any records.

A highlight for me was visiting the National Racing Museum, which always features an incredible collection of cars, TORQUE | Issue 1 2026

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SCOPING OUT BATHURST

including the Benson and Hedges E30 M3 Group A, E36 320i Supertouring, and M2 Competition.

details will emerge as the event takes shape, and we’re excited to share updates with the club as plans progress.

The museum is a treasure trove for any motorsport fan, and it was inspiring to see the history and heritage of racing in Australia up close. I even made John find his name on the honour boards displayed around the museum—after some searching, we found it right next to the toilets!

As the event approaches, we’ll need more volunteers to help organise this national gathering. Events like these rely on the energy and commitment of our members, and there are plenty of opportunities to get involved—whether it’s helping with logistics, coordinating activities, or simply lending a hand on the day. If you’re interested in helping out, please contact us at nationals@bmwclubnsw.asn.au.

Together, we can make the BMW Clubs Australia Nationals 2027 an event to remember.

It was a light-hearted moment that reminded us of the camaraderie and shared memories that make our club so special.

We spent the rest of the day visiting various locations around Bathurst in preparation for the BMW Nationals. Each stop gave us new ideas and insights into how we could make the event truly memorable. From accommodation options to potential social activities, we left no stone unturned. More 30

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DX1 SKIDPAN

SLIDING IN to the new year

For any successful skid pan day, you really only need two things: a skid pan and water. Sydney Motorsport Park delivered the first, and Mother Nature more than delivered the second — with heavy rain throughout the morning ensuring conditions were perfectly set for a true test of car control and driver confidence.

Kicking off the year with a series of Driver Experience events has become a tradition for the BMW Drivers Club of NSW, and for good reason. These days provide members with a chance to sharpen their skills, build confidence, and, for many first-timers, experience practical driving techniques they may never have tried before. Exercises such as J-turns and handbrake turns may not feature in the daily commute, but the lessons learned from them are invaluable. The skid pan offers a controlled, safe environment to explore how a car behaves when grip disappears — and, more importantly, how a driver should respond when things don’t go to plan.

For me, the day carried a more personal significance. As the father of a young P-plater, I’m incredibly grateful for events like this. It marked the second time my daughter has taken part — the first in my Hyundai ix35, and this time behind the wheel of her own Mitsubishi Lancer. Watching her experience understeer and oversteer in a safe setting, rather than on a public road, reinforced exactly why these events matter.

Learning how to correct a slide, stay calm, and keep the car under control is a skill set that builds confidence not just for motorsport, but for everyday driving as well.

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Introduction: Andrew Green Written by: Grant Herron AJGreen Photography and Victor Yee

Guiding everyone through each stage of the day was Alex Wong, who provided clear, practical briefings before every exercise. He walked drivers through what to expect, how the car would react, and what their inputs should be behind the wheel. Of course, Alex didn’t just explain — he demonstrated.

His V10-powered M5 delivered a soundtrack that turned heads across the skid pan, a reminder that sometimes learning can also come with a healthy dose of theatre.

As the rain continued to fall, the true character of each car began to shine through. Some vehicles naturally leaned toward understeer, others were far happier to rotate into oversteer, and a few seemed almost immune to the slippery conditions. Even with traction control disabled, many modern cars clung stubbornly to the wet surface. AJ’s GR Yaris impressed with its composure, while the Williams girls in their Hyundai i20 N showcased a playful rear end that seemed to thrive in the rain always lifting a wheel.

For me, however, the standout of the day was Andrew’s X3M Competition. Watching a high-performance SUV being hustled across a soaked skid pan was both unexpected and thoroughly entertaining, proving once again that performance doesn’t come in just one shape or size.

Despite some of the heaviest rain seen at a club event in quite some time, spirits never dipped.

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DX2 AMAROO

TRAINING DAY Drivers at all levels hit the track to learn new skills

Introduction: Andrew Green Written by: Grant Herron Photos by: AJGreen Photography and Victor Yee

Just a usual track day for me. Check the clock every hour or so and then up 5 minutes before the alarm goes off. The car was packed the night before so a quick breakfast and off to Sydney Motorsport Park. All seemed ‘as usual’ until I got to the gate and said ‘BMW Club’. The reply was a confused ‘wait a minute’. A minute later the person returned telling me I was a week early!

So one week later, already being practiced at alarm clock checking, I arrived in good time and on the correct day!

Paperwork was submitted electronically and scrutineering of my standard vehicle straight forward. I was coaching and the first session was coach the coaches. I was lucky enough to have the visiting V8 super car drive experience coach sit beside me.

Basically he was reducing the distance the car was being driven by driving very straight between the turns. So no swinging wide for what I considered the perfect line. It will be interesting next Amaroo SuperSprint when I give that a serious go.

This time there were many more coaches than previously available. Consequently, I was not running from one car to the next and I even managed lunch. That should have made it easier but at Amaroo there is no shelter for competitors and Sydney was at the end of a very serious heat wave. I was really starting to feel the heat by lunch time and by afternoon it was a serious struggle. You would think for the money clubs pay to hire Amaroo, the ARDC could afford some sort of weather protection for participants!

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The coaching went for 5 sessions with participants grouped into specific speed and experience groups. Drivers I coached seemed to be having a good time and appreciated all advice given. The skills of drivers varied enormously but common sense and experience was sitting in the passenger seat so an incident free day. Finally, I led the non crash helmet required parade laps session taking a passenger visiting from Italy.

Although my M2 set a very modest pace so all could keep up, I think the Italian visitor enjoyed the very twisty Amaroo circuit.

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DX2

FREYED NERVES Excitement for Freya Hogg in her first time on track.

Introduction: Andrew Green Written by Freya Hogg AJGreen Photography and Victor Yee

Just recently David and I purchased a 2002 Silver BMW 325ci Clubsport to prep for tracking. This is an activity I have anticipated doing since before I can remember but never believed it could or would ever happen. We decided that it might be sensible to take our Mustang Mach 1 as a support vehicle on the day, just in case!!!!

Taking my 2002 BMW 325Ci Club Sport to the circuit for the first time was an exciting prospect. SMSP is not a forgiving introduction to track driving — it is fast and technical — and when I headed out for my first session, it clear that preparation and guidance would be essential.

Thankfully, I had both.

Ash Sherry joined me as my instructor for the day, and her presence was invaluable. As one of my closest friends as well as an experienced instructor, Ash was able to provide calm, clear instructions that immediately helped settle my nerves.

Her guidance throughout the sessions — from braking points to race line selection — allowed me to focus on learning the circuit and building confidence rather than feeling overwhelmed.

The 325Ci Club Sport proved to be an excellent car for my first track experience. While not particularly powerful, the car remained predictable even when mistakes were made, (thankfully no evidence) making it an ideal car for learning.

SMSP quickly highlighted the importance of smooth exceleration and in some areas patience, but each session

reinforced the value of consistency over outright speed. With instruction and repetition, my track driving began to feel more natural and controlled.

Unfortunately, our day was cut short during the lunchtime sessions when the car experienced a cooling system failure, with the expansion tank blowing and forcing an early exit.

A tow was required to return the car home, which was a sad end to day.

Despite this, the experience as a whole was positive. The instruction, the learning process, and the opportunity to develop confidence on track far outweighed the disappointment of the mechanical issue. The car is now undergoing some repairs, which will hopefully allow returning to the track. ready to continue my track journey.

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PARADE LAPS

LEAD THE WAY with a camera in the passenger seat

Written by Andrew Green Photos by AJGreen Photography

For many club members, there’s always been a sense of curiosity when watching our motorsport drivers head out onto the circuit. What does it really feel like to be on track, even at controlled speeds? What does the circuit look like from behind the wheel rather than from the sidelines?

were permitted, making it a great opportunity for younger enthusiasts to experience the circuit in a safe and controlled environment. Passengers signed on separately, collected their own wristbands, and were ready to join the convoy as it rolled out onto the track.

At Amaroo Circuit, the club’s Follow the Leader / Parade Laps experience offered the perfect answer.

For me, the experience carried a unique perspective — as this time instead of capturing the event from the side lines I would so it from the passenger seat of Ash Sherry’s BMW Z4, camera in hand. Photographing from inside a moving car on a race circuit is a completely different challenge to shooting from the sidelines. I can say 100% it was not some of my best work as trying to capture images while sliding around in a seat of a car on the tight Amaroo circuit is no easy task and something need to practice more.

Designed to bridge the gap between everyday road driving and the world of motorsport, the session invited members to take their own road-registered cars, complete with passengers, out onto the circuit for a relaxed and accessible ontrack experience. Following one of our experienced Driver Coaches, participants completed laps at road speeds over a 30-minute session after lunch, allowing plenty of time to settle into the rhythm of the circuit and appreciate the flow of its corners, elevation changes, and braking zones.

One of the best aspects of the day was just how welcoming and straightforward the format was. Drivers simply needed a valid NSW driver’s licence and a road-registered vehicle.

There was no need for helmets or specialist equipment — just non-synthetic clothing and enclosed shoes. On arrival, drivers signed on at the desk, handed in their forms, collected a driver wristband, and received a windscreen tag for their car before lining up for the session.

Passengers were very much part of the experience as well.

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The Follow the Leader / Parade Laps at Amaroo Circuit perfectly captured what the BMW Drivers Club of NSW does best: creating opportunities that are inclusive, approachable, and memorable. Whether you were behind the wheel, riding along as a passenger, or, in my case, trying to line up the perfect shot from the seat of a Z4, it was an experience that offered a genuine glimpse into the world of driving on track — without the pressure, and with plenty of enjoyment.

And judging by the conversations at the end of the day, it certainly won’t be the last time many of our members find themselves lining up at the sign-on desk, wristband in hand, ready to follow the leader once again.

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WE’RE NOT

WORTHY All roads lead to Worthington BMW

The Worthington BMW Day started off as a local Central Coast/Newcastle Chapter Cruise that Ian Ashton and I thought we would open up to the rest of the Club to join us. I had spoken to Kym Worthington before Christmas and we had teed up a local Cars and Coffee there and both she, her brother Brad and her mum Helen were so welcoming to us all. It is great to have these sort of relationships with BMW dealers – especially family owned ones.

The Newcastle Group met at Morisset at 8am with 6 cars – a nice mix including an E30 318is, E65 750il, E92 335i, G87 M2, M235i and my Alpina B3 Touring. We made our way down the back roads through Wyee and Jilliby before jumping on the M1 to Worthingtons. There we were greeted

by Brad and Kym, parked up and started to mingle with new members Mike Barry with his red E24 6 series and Gordon Batt and his black E46 M3.

At the same time, Ash was helping me out by getting all the Sydney members together at the Truck stop at Cowan and then leading them up the Old Pacific Highway where they joined us at Worthingtons just on 10am. Sadly, just as they arrived en masse, the entrance to the allotted car parking area we had was blocked by a customer dropping off his Group A E24 6 series race car on a trailer for some work to be done so everyone had to park out on the street. But soon everyone made their way inside and out of the stifling humidity where we all enjoyed Helen Worthington’s awesome coffee, the Worthington’s hospitalitity and the air conditioning.

Brad and Kym have an incredible display of Classic BMW’s on permanent display in the showroom including a 2002,

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Written by David Hogg Photos by: AJGreen Photography

01 FEB 26 635csi, 850i, a couple of E30 M3s and an i8 roadster – worth the trip to check them out alone. Brad is also soon opening up a destination motoring themed cafe called the “Oil Cafe” just down from the dealership which will be another great destination for us. Brad took myself, Freya and our son Mitch (who happens to be a chef) down to check it out - very impressive. It has numerous historic motorbikes scattered amongst the dining tables and a mini in the alfresco area. Should be a hit!

It was a bit of a mess leaving Wortthingtons as, despite making a public announcement to all thanking the Worthingtons and telling everyone we were leaving, some 10 minutes later I was parked down the road with a dozen cars and receiving a phone call saying “where are you?, we didn’t know you left” A minor issue and everyone was soon with us. Highlight of the shortened drive had to be turning right at a roundabout on to Wiseman’s Ferry Road in a convoy of 25 BMW’s and making a group of half a dozen Porsches have to wait for us to all go through!

As I said, the drive was shortened as we had a 12pm booking, so we had to turn and head back on the freeway from Central Mangrove. Whilst I led and went south and everyone started following, 1 member went north as they were going to go home and not join us for lunch. Unfortunately this meant those behind followed this member!!. Luckily, the ever reliable Ash knew they were going the wrong way so she took off like a Border Collie and rounded them up, guiding them off at the Ourimbah exit and getting them back on track.

We got to Everglades Country Club right on time and parked up where I counted 25 cars in total. I know at least 3 who didn’t make it to lunch who had been at Worthingtons earlier – so 28 cars in total. I think about 44 people at the lunch and everyone seemed to have a pretty good time.

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MK1

M-KHANA First hit out for 2026

Written by: Alex Wong Photos by: Victor Yee

The first BMW Drivers Club NSW Motorkhana for 2026 was held on Sunday 1 February at the Sydney Motorsport Park skid pan at Eastern Creek. It marked the start of the year’s Motorkhana series and attracted a good mix of regular competitors, first-timers and volunteers.

As always, the focus was on car control and precision rather than outright speed, with a range of timed tests set up across the skid pan.

The day ran smoothly, the atmosphere was relaxed, and it was a solid way for everyone to get back into driving early in the season, shake down their cars and rebuild some skills after the break.excellence, the judging panel had their work cut out for them.

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Motorkhana 1

POINTS PLACE

CAR

DRIVER

POINTS

1st

7

Alex

Wong

123.08

2nd

25

John

Driver

124.41

3rd

16

Patrick

Kong

127.88

4th

4

Jarrod

Coleman

129.09

5th

12

Ben

Benny

133.94

6th

21

Jono

Nuthall

134.75

7th

20

Adrijan

Radikovic

136.38

8th

26

Christopher

Hinds

138.42

9th

8

Adam

Fish

138.61

10th

27

Philip

Middlebrook

139.18

11th

11

Robert

Bianco

139.42

12th

30

Nathan

Leuzzi

141.57

13th

1

John

Zhang

142.36

14th

23

Adam

Adamczewski

142.92

15th

6

Otis

Craven-Sands

145.08

16th

29

Steve

O'Callaghan

146.09

17th

17

Chris

Blanch

146.13

18th

14

Alex

Coleman

147.68

19th

28

Jonathan

Behrens

150.82

20th

13

George

Macovaz

154.11

21st

9

Dylan

Ferreira

155.89

22nd

10

Yang

Duan

158.15

23rd

5

Daniel

Natoli

165.76

24th

15

Jack

Chen

168.34

25th

31

Mitchell

Siorimanotham

170.21

26th

32

Harrison

Sands

173.88

27th

18

Benny

Nuthall

178.05

28th

3

Nakhil

Bhandari

181.05

29th

19

Daniel

Nuthall

181.26

30th

2

Leon

Clemones

241.68

31st

22

Andrew

Eckett

265.19

32nd

24

Dominique

Oakes

265.19

TORQUE | Issue 1 2026

45

MEMBER BENEFITS SERVICE AND PERFORMANCE BEE-EMS Car Service Centre is a BMW Specialist with over 40 years experience and offers Club members special discounts off the normal service cost. Ask for Robert.

Units 5 & 6 45-47 Salisbury Road, Hornsby NSW 2077

02 9477 6201

BMWise is an Exclusive BMW Service Centre servicing classic through to current BMWs. Show George your club card for a 10% discount on all labour.

Unit B2, 77-81 Reserve Rd, Artarmon NSW 2064

www.bmwise.com.au

Contact Adam Burgess

02 9648 3366 www.advanperformance.com.au

BMW

For maximum performance from your European car, Peak offers club members discounts on service and parts.

80 Macarthur Street, Parramatta NSW 2151

02 9683 5577 www.peakperformance.sydney

Eastern Auto Repairs is a European specialist based in Darlinghurst with Factory trained technicians who are passionate about motorsports and BMWs. 10% off labour for Club members. Contact Nadav 34 Hardie St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010

02 9332 1649 bookings@easternautorepairs.com.au

Bavariacars offer BMW Drivers Club members discounts on selected services.

Contact Marno.

Unit D/39 College Street, Gladesville NSW 2111

02 9879 7557 www.bavariacars.com.au

PARTS Club members receive a full trade discount with presentation of your club card – up to 40% off retail. Ask for Michael or Alastair.

141 Alexander Street, Crows Nest NSW 2065

02 9438 4588 www.frysspares.com.au

Exceptional HANDLING, BRAKING & MECHANICAL for all types of vehicles, but in particular *Performance,*Prestige & *Race Cars with up to 22” wheels.

www.mybm.com.au

02 9438 1669

Advan Performance is your one stop servicing and performance shop. We pride ourselves in our work and love maintaining, servicing and building cars, from wheel alignments to oil changes and performance engine builds - we can achieve this all inhouse. 10% off all work when you present your members card.

Contact Peter Hennessy

02 9684 2826 service@roadandraceperformance.com.au www.roadandraceperformance.com.au

Revolution Racegear Auburn offers club members 10% off most regular priced items such as race suits, helmets, gloves, boots, and accessories. See Ross.

Unit 3, 191 Parramatta Rd Auburn NSW 2144

02 9648 4044 www.revolutionracegear.com.au From dayglo numbers to windscreen banners, race numbers to tow triangles, MRN is your one stop shop for all your motorsport graphics.

BMW Drivers Club NSW members benefit from a 15% discount, apply coupon code “MRN15” Contact Troy Seven

0422 257 551 www.magnetracenumbers.com

Clickable offer $10 off shipping on orders over $100 to club members, for parcels sent with Australia Post road service.

Simply send an email to hello@clickableautomotive.com.au to obtain the promotional code to use during checkout.

1300 739 311 www.clickable.com.au SWEA is one of Australia’s largest distributors of European New, Used and Reconditioned parts. We offer an extensive range of Genuine, OEM and OES parts covering all European Makes and Models. Our branches are located in key points in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. So, what are you waiting for? Experience the SWEA difference today 150 Eldridge Road Condell Park NSW 2200

1300 240 440 www.swea.com.au Whether you are looking to modify or restore your BMW, we have a range of quality performance and OEM parts to suit. To apply your 10% membership discount, contact Andrew for the Code!.

0404 908 203 sales@bavarianspeed.com.au

Lithiumax is the world’s best lithium engine starter battery with a model suitable for all BMWs from dedicated race cars through to daily drivers. Weight saving is in the order of 12kg to 20kg depending on your model, many Lithiumax batteries now with Bluetooth App monitoring and Restart control. 10% discount for Club members Contact Vic

02 8011 4776 admin@lithiumax.com.au www.lithiumax.com.au

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Issue 1 2026 | TORQUE

All offers are subject to change without notice. Refer to the Member Benefits page on the club website, www.bmwclubnsw.asn.au/member-benefits, to view all current offers.

Whilst all care is taken, the BMW Drivers Club NSW Incorporated and associated businesses take no responsibility for the accuracy of any information contained herein. All ideas, opinions and suggestions published herein are those of the respective authors.

BODY CARE

Exclusive 10% discount to Club members on all Sonax products. Just use the discount code BMWDCNSW10 to have the discount applied.

1800-4-SONAX Basha Autohaus is a quality focused Auto Body Shop specialising in BMW & European vehicle repairs. Contact us today & present your member card to take advantage of our 10% discount for all BMW Club Members.

Contact Greg.

www.sonax.com.au

88 Falconer Street, West Ryde NSW 2114

10% off for BMW Club members when using check out code BMWCLUB

www.bashaautohaus.com.au

www.iglcoatings.com.au

CARBON DEMON specialises in OEM-quality vinyl wraps. We are a 3M & Avery Dennison trained, certified & recommended wrapping company. Our wraps are enthusiast-grade.

Smart Polish Pro provide members 10% off all orders on their range of premium car care products. Simply send an email to hello@smartpolishpro.com.au to receive your discount code for use during checkout.

CARBON DEMON is the vinyl wrapper of choice for Audi (Aust), Citröen (Aust), Ferrari Australasia, Peugeot (Aust), Jaguar (Aust), Suzuki (Aust), FOX Studios and numerous established new-car dealerships & tuning shops.

02 9621 4701

Club members get 10% off.

0433 111 652 carbondemon.com.au Fancee Car are vinyl wrapping specialists, working on over 500 cars in the last two years. We offer all Club Members $500 off on a whole car wrap, $600 off on clear Paint Protection Film, 20% off on calipers respray, 20% off on wheels respray, 20% off on ceramic coating and $50 off for window tinting.

Contact Sherina Li.

0452 478 288 www.fanceecar.com.au

Awash Car Care & Café is a quality-controlled complete hand car wash, detailing and vehicle accessory service. Show your club Card at the café counter to receive a 10% discount on all services over $35.

459 Victoria Road, Gladesville NSW 2111 1206 Victoria Road, Melrose Park NSW 2114

02 9817 8111 www.awash.com.au Renovo offers a 10% discount on all Renovo convertible car care products purchased online and using the promotion code 85pmdc during the checkout process.

www.smartpolishpro.com.au

Purfit Covers has been manufacturing and designing custom car covers for the last 18years for most OEM’s.

We offer all BMW NSW members10% off our products. We have a huge BMW library of patterns for inside or outside covers, plus we add the BMW NSW members badge for free on all inside covers. Contact Michael

0478 681 551 info@purfitcovers.com.au

Drive GHT would like to offer a 10% discount on all European arrive and drive packages for all members of the BMW NSW club. That’s a huge saving of over $400 on a BMW M3 package! Ask for Ashwin.

0431 065 777 www.driveght.com.au

Protect your business with our comprehensive cybersecurity packages, secure Microsoft Surface laptops, and secure Microsoft 365 licenses. Tailored for small and medium-sized businesses. Safeguard your data and boost productivity with confidence.

Contact: hello@cisoonline.com.au www.cisoonline.com.au

March 2027

02 9807 5677

Protective Surface Coatings and Car Care Products

0430 164 123 www.renovoaustralia.com.au

TORQUE | Issue 1 2026

47

RE WARD S THAT D E FINE YO U R D RIVE .

F EE L THE THRI LL OF OW N IN G A B M W.

EXPERIENCE THE BENEFITS: Programme Benefits for members of BMW Car Clubs: • Complimentary BMW Service Inclusive for 3 years or 60,000km.* or • 4 years / unlimited km BMW Service Inclusive Basic on fully electric vehicles.* • Recommended dealer delivery reduced to $1,850 excluding taxes.~ • Benefits extended to your spouse or de-facto partner.^ • Access to a dedicated Corporate Sales Manager.

STANDARD BMW BENEFITS: 5 years unlimited kilometre warranty. Access to BMW Genius. BMW Roadside Assistance.

Competitive finance rates across a range of products through BMW Financial Services.^^ Ready to take it further? Contact your dedicated Corporate Sales Manager at your preferred BMW dealer.

Vehicle exclusions apply. *BMW Service Inclusive - Basic is based on the vehicle’s condition based service monitoring system for 3 years from the date of first registration or up to 60,000km, whichever occurs first or 4 years / Unlimited Kilometres (Electric Vehicles) from the date of first registration. Normal wear & tear items & other exclusions apply. Scheduled servicing must be conducted by an authorised BMW dealer. See www.bmw.com/en-au/home.html for full terms and conditions. ~Dealer Delivery subject to negotiation between the customer and the vendor dealer. ^Vehicle to be registered in private name of spouse or de-facto partner. No entitlement extends to a business or company owned by a spouse or de-facto partner. ^^BMW Financial Services, Australian Credit Licence 392387. Fees, charges and eligibility criteria apply. Conditions apply. Rate may differ base on the borrower risk profile. Members of BMW Car Clubs must be a member for a minimum of 12 months in order to be eligible for the BMW Professional Programme Benefits.

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Issue 1 2026 | TORQUE