OF THE TOWN
VALE PETE MATHISON TUESDAY LUNCH
SUPERFEST SHOW N SHINE
SUPERSPRINT SIX ONE RACEWAY
PARADE LAPS MOTOKHANA FOUR
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ANDREW GREEN Editor editor@bmwclubnsw.asn.au
DENIS MAMO Art Direction denis@whitespaceconcepts.com.au
COMMITTEE
JOHN COTTER President president@bmwclubnsw.asn.au
DAVID GILLIES Vice President vicepresident@bmwclubnsw.asn.au
RANDALL LUMBEWE Secretary secretary@bmwclubnsw.asn.au
IAN MCLACHLAN 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 0418 284 323
NICK HANANIA Motorsport Assistant nick.hanania@bmwclubnsw.asn.au
ASH SHERRY Social Events Manager clubevents@bmwclubnsw.asn.au 0404 777 156
PHILIP MIDDLEBROOK IT & Web Manager webmaster@bmwclubnsw.asn.au
FREYA HOGG Merchandise Manager freya.hogg@bmwclubnsw.asn.au
PETER QUINLAN
General Committee peter.quinlan@bmwclubnsw.asn.au
STEPHEN PAGE
General Committee stephen.page@bmwclubnsw.asn.au
PRESIDENT
John Cotter
What a magnificent edition of Torque of the Town this is.
Congratulations to Andrew Green on the editorial work and to Denis Mamo on the art direction for the magazine. Publications of this quality do not happen by accident but are due to a lot of dedicated hard work.
It is full of wonderful reports on happenings at the Parramatta BMW Superfest with great action shots of the cars and people at the event. Alison and I were in Ennis, in southern Ireland, when the event was held but every single report on the event that I have heard has said what a raging success the event was and how everybody who took part in it, or simply turned up on the day, was blown away by the range and quality of the BMWs that were there. Everybody who was there seemed to thoroughly enjoy the spectacle of the cars that were on track in either the competitive supersprint or the well attended parade laps. The presence of the BMW Jenny Kee Art Car and two of the very rare Z8s really added to the event as did the mass turnout of M3 Touring BMWs. The BMW Mottoraad display added something different.
Thank you to Parramatta BMW, Castle Hill BMW, Eurowerke, IGL Coatings and all of the people and businesses that supported the event. Their displays and exhibitions certainly add to the colour and feel of the event. Again, I would like to thank Ash Sherry and her very, very hardworking band of assistants for putting the whole thing together. Roll on 2025.
ED TORQUE
Andrew Green
As we unveil Issue Four of 2024 of the BMW Drivers Club NSW Magazine, Torque of the Town, I can’t help but reflect on what has truly been a landmark year for our community. The club has once again witnessed remarkable growth, expanding our family of passionate BMW enthusiasts. This year has also seen us host some of the most ambitious and grandest events in our history.
It is also the end of my first year as Editor which myself and the Torque Team have put a lot of work into design and flow of the magazine. Many of you would have noticed how close issue 3 and 4 have been this year which was part of our plan. The plan, well it was to reset and realign when Torque of the Town will be in club members hands. I will spare you all the details but next year you can all expect to see a copy of Torque in your hands in March, Jun,
Recently Ian McLachlan, our trusty treasurer, sent out to members details of the Club’s financial performance in recent times. Your committee has worked hard to rationalize events so that club funds are not lost on events, so far as that can be done. It may still be, of course, that individual events may lose some money since the Club cannot know in advance just how many participants there will be for some events but, at the same time, the Club must pay for the event well in advance of it happening. On the other hand, the Committee is striving to try and make events not lose money or, where possible, actually make a small surplus.
Planning for 2025 is well underway and details of the social events and competition events that are in the pipeline will be coming out for the members’ edification (I love that word) soon. The popularity of events in 2024 would indicate to me that anybody who wants to take part in events should register for those events as soon as it is possible to do so. In 2024 there were a number of events where members had to be put on a waiting list due to the surge in registrations. Don’t let that happen to you in 2025.
Members may not see much of me between now and 2025 as I am having a valve replaced – no not in the car’s engine, but in my heart (yes lawyers – even retired ones – do have a heart). So I will sign off for now with a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone.
As this issue goes to print, John’s operation was a success, and he is at home resting and in good spirits. AJ
September and December covering everything the club is doing throughout the year.
In this edition, we have dedicated a significant portion of our magazine to the spectacular BMW Superfest at Sydney Motorsport Park. This event, a jewel in our calendar, brought together members from far and wide, celebrating our shared love for BMW in an electrifying atmosphere.
Join us as we look back on the highlights, share stories from the fest, and celebrate the vibrant camaraderie that defines our club. Here’s to another year of driving excellence and shared adventures!
, “Aus Freude am Fahren” (for sheer driving pleasure).
MEMBERSHIP
David Hogg
We continue to grow as a Club. As of time of writing we have 1,179 active members, with 288 having joined us in 2024 - but we also have some 332 members who are overdue with their membership renewals and who will soon become ‘lapsed’ members.
The easiest way to avoid this is to set up automatic payment renewals. You can do this yourself by logging in to the website and setting it up in your membership page. Then you don’t have to worry about getting reminder emails when it comes due. Remember too, if you have Historic or Classic registration with the Club, your membership has to be current or your car will be deemed to be unregistered - so having automatic payments can help alleviate that issue as well.
To help this I am wanting to set up Regional Chapters throughout the State, including having their own Facebook sub groups to help organise social events, lunches, drives etc within their local areas.
NEW MEMBERS
Sina Amlashi - X1 18i
Paul Bishop -335i
Charles Calleja - 750
Lielette Calleja - M135i
Bilal Cetiner - 640I
Shazaib Cheema - M340i
Li Chen - X3 M50
Xi Chen - X1 20i
Jie Chen - X5 30D
Russell Chenu
Rebecca Cowan - X5
Lisa Diamantidis - X1
Stewart Dow - X6
Michael Dransfield - 135i
Fiona Duncan - 118
Bill Eroglu - 330i Touring
Neill Evans - X4
Gerald Ferguson - X5
Wen Gao - X7 40i
Nadine Gillespie-Mckie - X3
Nick Granville - M2
Kurt Haller - 325is
Qingfei Han - X5 30d
Rod Harrison - X3
Recently I set up just such a page for the Newcastle area which I am helping run with one of our long time members, Ian Ashton.
To make this work, we need members to step up and volunteer to be Chapter Delegates for areas such as New England, Riverina, South Coast, Mid North Coast, Far North Coast and Central West - it’ won’t be too onerous, just to be a point of contact and start with maybe a once a month dinner or cruise, or brunch and see where it goes from there, after all - it’s your club. Email me or give me a call if you are interested.
The weather is warmer, car shows, events and drives are on almost every week so get out there and enjoy those cars. Stay safe with Christmas and the silly season coming upon us soon and see you all soon in the New Year!
members@bmwclubnsw.org.au
Md Tanvir Hassan
Anne Henry - 118
Ann Ho - Ix3
Laura Iskander - iX1
Khaled Ismail
Ian Kirkham - Z4 35
Ka Chun Lam - X1 18i
Tuen Eva Leung - X1 18i
Meng Li - X7 40i
Jingshi Li - iX2 edrive 20
Peng Li - X5 30D
Allen Chang-Ching liu - X7
Qiaorui Liu - X4
Yanlei Liu - M340i xDrive Sedan
Dongqing Liu - X5 30D
Julie Loefti - X1 18i
Todd Miklich - 528
Paul Ormerod - 335i
Matthew Ormiston - 330i
Ali Ozhan Ozbey - 430
Robert Pirani - M3
Jin Qiu - X7 40D
Bernadette Riad
Jackson Riad - 318is
Mark Brockwell Riordan - 118i
Leanne Roberts - IX2 20
Nancy Seto - X1 20i
Haitao Shao - x7
Angelita Somanader - M2
Yunxia Song - X3 30i M Sport
Hai Ping Sun - 330i
Nguyet Tat - iX3 M Sport
Peter Terry - 330i LCI
Peter Tse - 1 series
Sue-Lyn Ung - X5M
Yue Wang - 230i
Lei Wang - 118M sport
Ping Wang - X7 40d
Craig Williams - 3 Series
Yi’OU Xie - X1 18i
Mengya Xue - Cooper S
Raymond Yu - X5 50e
Irene Zhang - X5 40i
Yan Zhang - X5 30d
Stefanie Zhang - X7 40i
Zhenjie Zhong - iX1 xDrive 30
Jingyuan Zhu - X6 40i
TUESDAY LUNCH
LUNCH PLANS
On Tuesday 22 Oct, 13 Club members enjoyed a perfect spring day, social lunch outing at the Carnarvon Golf Club. Note that Peter had departed before the photo was taken, and we, that is Trish, Allan, Renate, John C, Maureen, Arthur, Alison, John B, Carolyn and myself were pleased to have Sean and Mary join us all the way from Newcastle.
The chef excelled with Allan, John B and I enjoying the very tasty garlic prawn hot pot. The terrific garlic stayed with me well into Wednesday. You are all invited to join us for Tuesday lunches
Words and Photos Bob Williams
PETE MATHISON
Peter Mathison, past President of BMW Drivers Club NSW was born 17 May 1943, sadly passed away on 21 September 2024. He was in Western Australia on grey nomad tour with wife Lana. Pete and Lana joined our Club in September 1995, and they enjoyed social and motorsport events. Pete became a members of the Club’s general Committee is 2003, was elected President at the AGM in mid-2004 and served 2 years in that role.
Pete was my major challenge at Supersprints. He drove a white E30 235i with me chasing in my E30. I remember the days meeting Pete along the way when we left Sydney at 5AM, driving to Wakefield Park, changing the road wheels to race wheels, Scrutineering, Supersprinting all day, refitting the road wheels and driving home arriving after 8PM. Those were the days.
Pete, rest in peace.
Words Bob Williams
THE GREATEST SHOW ON TRACK
The making of a BMW
MASTERPIECE
3 am..... a time that most are fast asleep recuperating from the previous day. For those that wake up at the devil’s hour, it’s usually thanks to kids or a big night out! For me, I woke one morning at 3am in a flurry with this crazy idea, and so began the journey to what is undoubtedly one of the biggest and best BMW events to be held in Australia in many years.
The background
Back in 2021, I agreed to join the committee as the Social Events Manager. Alex Wong (former Club President) was certain that I would be a good fit for the role being an avid BMW enthusiast, a foodie, and for being that friend that has a knack for bringing everyone together.
What I don’t recall from our conversation was that in addition to social drives, and cars and coffees, and the club annual dinner, I was expected to run car shows! My background before my career in Local Government was in hospitality, which included running events, weddings, birthday parties, and parties, just because, with famous people like Karl Stefanovic, Russell Crowe, and the Murdoch family. How hard could running a car show really be…?
In 2022, I was in charge of running our annual car show at the Sydney German AutoFest in Earlwood. There was a LOT for me to learn, and to appreciate about the history of our Club. We had over 70 vehicles registered for judging with a total of 135 BMWs officially registered to attend, with 180 turning up on the day. It was BMW chaos! BMWs on footpaths, pine needles from the she-oaks, and people parked sideways. Not good for the perfectionist in me! Needless to say, it was a fantastic day for all who attended.
It was evident that we’d outgrown the venue, and I knew we could get in excess of 200 BMWs in one place, so my mind started to develop a new vision for the annual club car show.
The hunt for a venue
An easily accessible venue, free of pine needles, tree sap, and with large concreted open space was essential to accommodate a LOT of BMWs. I considered shopping centres, previous cars and coffee locations, function centres, and come to a dead end. Some months passed, and then one morning in November 2023 at 3am (on the dot), I knew where I wanted to hold the event, and I also knew it needed to include motorsport.
I put my proposal to the Club Committee and it was accepted without hesitation.
The “giant car show and motorsport event” was to be held at Sydney Motorsport Park in Eastern Creek, and we would book the Gardner GP Circuit to hold a SuperSprint on the same day.
Finding a name for the baby
I recruited my favourite car mates and surprised them with a Parramatta BMW notebook, lots of scribbles, and demanded their ideas at one of our regular charcoal chicken and chip evening outings.
The requirements were a new, fresh name, not something that had been used before, such as BimmerFest, BMW Fest, etc. SuperFest was decided upon as it was a combination of a SuperSprint, and a BMW Festival.
Words Ash Sherry
Photos AJGreen Photography and Ash Sherry
T he next steps
The next step was to establish SuperFest sub-committee crew members:
• Bob Williams – Motorsport
• Ian McLachlan – Official Judged vehicle
• Jeremy Sedley – Marketing & Social media (2IC)
• Greg Vains – Trade vendor & sponsor
• Denis Mamo – Graphic Design
• Andrew Green – Editor and Photographer
• Freya Hogg – Merchandise
• David Hogg – Membership and Merchandise
• Josh Zee (E30s Sydney Group Owner) – Show N Shine
• David Gillies - Treasurer
• Randall Lumbewe – General Committee
• Luke Wise – President Car Club Canberra / General Committee
• Graham Ball – Vice President Car Club Canberra / General Committee
I had a very clear vision of the event, and what it would look like, but actually knowing where to start was daunting. I won’t bore you with all the details, but it started with a site inspection, drafting of the sponsorship and trade packages, landing on ticket pricing and structure, and meetings with the SuperFest Graphic Designer, Denis Mamo.
Denis worked his magic and designed an unbelievably eye-catching SuperFest graphic for our social media promotion, banners for the website, SuperFest flags and merchandise, as well as the trade stand vendor and event map and LED signage. Absolute legend.
A huge thank you to Trevor Kilner for his efforts in making the parade laps happen, and also being such a great success. Lastly,
Jeremy Sedley our Social Media Manager was assigned the task of marketing and promoting the event on Facebook and Instagram. If you have social media and you didn’t see one of the SuperFest
promotional posts in the lead up to the event, you are doing something wrong!
Momentum
As word got around that the BMW Drivers Club NSW were holding an all BMW event, interest from sponsors and vendors started to roll in.
Our three major event sponsors included:
Parramatta BMW – Event Naming Rights Sponsor
EuroWerke – SuperSprint Naming Rights Sponsor
IGL Coatings Pty Ltd – Show N Shine Naming Rights Sponsor
Trade Supporters, displayers and sponsors included:
Axxle Pty Ltd, ASV, Peak Performance, Basha Autohaus, Awash, MP Autohaus, BeeEms, Junz Auto Tyre Plus, Scuderia Auto-Art, Scuderia Auto-Art, Syndeticom, MacGear, Shannons, Collecting cars, Eurospec Diecast Models, Best Exhaust
The event opened on 1 June. At first the Show N Shine registrations seemed to trickle in, and slowly started to pick up. I remember waking up one morning around 3am (again), and panicking that we wouldn’t reach 250 BMWs at SuperFest, and plotting how I can find some more cars! By the 31st July, we hit 100 registrations. On the 28th August, we hit 200 registrations. On the 6 September, we hit 250. That is not including the SuperSprint registrations. All that 3am stress about hitting the target for nothing!
Jeremy the social media magician
Before the event
13 posts on Facebook across 50 BMW groups = 650 posts. The reach across these 50 Groups is 330,000 people.
SUPERFEST: MASTERPIECE
40 Posts on Instagram which also included collabs with sponsors, vendors and different channels.
After the event
60 Instagram posts from the club and attendees.
After the event 10 Facebook posts from us + 1 Thank you to 50 Groups so – 60 posts.
Expected total coverage of 1 Million people over time if not more.
The biggest day of my life
I woke up at 4am, feeling somewhere between excited and anxious. I looked out the window of the Alpha Hotel at Eastern Creek, and it wasn’t raining. Yay, thank you world!
Jeremy was appointed as second in charge on the day of the event, and we both turned up at 6am at the front gate to beat the crowds. Turns out we didn’t! Our keen SuperSprint drivers had arrived earlier, so we all were let in together. The day began with a scramble to reserve assigned garages for our sponsors, and unloading of cars to set up the merchandise tent.
I will pause here to acknowledge the feeling of driving into SMSP, and seeing the LED signage that Denis Mamo had finalised only days before the event. Denis had done the most amazing job creating the graphics for the various LED signage around the racetrack and SMSP. It took the event to the next level.
The sub-committee arrived soon after Jeremy and I, and we did NOT stop! I got in trouble (a little.. a lot) for ordering 100 SuperFest flags, yes, exaggeration, but there were a lot. They are fiddly to put up, so the sub-committee were not a fan, but they delivered.
The next debacle was there was BMW 635i Art Car in the scrutineering shed that needed to move urgently, but where was the key? Two of our volunteers accepted the task of finding the key and moving the car. They succeeded and it hung out at the club merchandise area whilst the display areas was set up. Can you believe the lucky buggers got to drive an art car?!
It hit 8am and the Show N Shine and Official Judged vehicles started turning up. Our Canberra volunteers, Luke and Graham were assigned to the front gate to screen and categorise the vehicles coming in to assist with their parking location at the event. Luke and Graham drew the short straw, this was quite possibly the busiest task of the morning. Greg Vains went up to join them at the gate which provided a big relief.
Meanwhile, Heather MacDonald, Monty Versi and Josh Zee (plus his three helpers), directed vehicles to the Figure 8 and dummy grid for the Official Judged Competition. Josh, and his crew, did the most incredible job lining everyone up and grouping them into their vehicle categories. Meanwhile, Ian was in charge of the Official Judged Competition vehicles on the dummy grid, and exceeded in his role, despite challenges of finding three vehicles that had parked in the wrong area.
David, Freya, and Randall set up the Club Merchandise area with ease and from 9am, this became extraordinarily busy, they did not stop all day. Ian and Trish Ashton also assisted at the merchandise carport with sales and parade lap form collation. Meanwhile Greg kept the sponsors and trade vendors happy. Randall was then banished to a flag point so we could run the SuperSprint, as we were short on flag marshals. We usually are.
Thank god for caffeine! Jeremy and I ran around like headless chooks for the first few hours, until we were finally able to relax. Jeremy got stuck into what he does best, parking up the M3 Tourings to fill the garage area, which received lots of compliments from spectators. Another person very busy at his role was Andrew Green, our magazine editor and SuperFest photographer manager. Andrew captured several thousand photos at SuperFest, just about every angle of the SuperSprint, car show, and everything in between. Absolutely extraordinary.
Debacle number three: inflating of the giant BMW Clubs Australia arch. This took a number of people to inflate and tie down, and it almost squashed a few BMWs as they entered the grounds!
Meanwhile, our MC Luke Hannan, provided day-long commentary for the event over the PA system. This helped generate so much hype and kept us all updated the festivities and scheduled highlights, such as the EuroWerke dyno runs. Before long it was time for the Show N Shine awards, presented by Ayman from IGL Coatings. Following the awards, it was parade lap time. I was assigned the task of leading the first set of parade laps in my beloved E36 M3 “Blueberry”. Trevor Kilner kept me updated through the radio, I was instructed to keep to a speed limit of 80km/h (maybe 100km/h on the straight).
The second set of parade laps were led by the blue Z8 (one of two at the event). I wonder if this was the first Z8 SMSP GP Circuit had seen? See Andrew’s article for more info on how rare and fabulous the Z8s are.
Thank you to our volunteers
You may not be aware, but the SuperFest was coordinated and run entirely by the club committee and volunteers. The club committee do not get paid for their time, everything is purely for the love of it. We love seeing our members, and non-members, enjoy our events.
Without the help of the SuperFest sub-committee, and the motorsport volunteers, the day would not possibly have been the great success that it was. I appreciate the efforts of all the volunteers on the day, and who assisted prior to the event which contributed to making my vision a reality.
SuperFest 2025
Running another SuperFest is a given, as I need to re-use the flags and banners!
I can now reveal the date for SuperFest 2025! Sunday 26 October 2025. I can’t wait to see you all there next year!
SuperFest 2, is set to be bigger, and better, and this time we’ve booked the whole of SMSP to ourselves. I encourage you to consider volunteering for the SuperFest sub-committee, or to assist on the day, every pair of hands makes a big difference. As I’m sure you can understand, many lessons have been learned for SuperFest 2025 and guarantee it will be bigger and better than our inaugural event.
INSTANT CLASSIC
Words Denis Mamo
Photos Denis Mamo
One of the great features of Superfest was the wide range of BMWs to drool over. Especially gratifying was the abundance of classics to be found on the racetrack, in the show’n’shine and in the judged show.
The E30s and E24s turned out in force along with e10s, e12s, e28s e31s, e32s and more - you name it there was a classic for everyone.
And the opportunity to drive our classics on SMSP in the Supersprint or on the Parade lap was impossible to resist.
Can’t wait for next year.
BMW Parramatta / Castle Hill
Words Andrew Green
Photos AJGreen Photography
ARTISTIC LEGACY
The Black Opal
The Jenny Kee-painted BMW “Black Opal” is a captivating fusion of art and automotive design. Known for her bold, colourful interpretations of Australian flora, fauna, and Indigenous art, Kee transformed this BMW into a vibrant, rolling artwork. The car’s intricate patterns and vivid palette reflect her signature style, with opal-inspired hues that pay homage to Australia’s rich natural beauty. Customarily housed at Parramatta BMW, this unique vehicle appeared at BMW Superfest, where it drew admiration from enthusiasts and art lovers alike, exemplifying the creative intersection of culture and engineering.
In this project, Kee took on the BMW as a canvas, transforming it into a mobile work of art. She brought her signature use of bold colours, unique patterns, and symbolic imagery to the car, incorporating designs reminiscent of the Australian landscape and cultural motifs, including inspirations from Indigenous art, bushland, and vibrant gemstones like opals.
The result is a BMW with a dynamic personality, seamlessly merging Kee’s art with BMW’s commitment to precision and performance. The car, known as the “Black Opal,” is a living testament to the power of art and engineering coming together to create a moving statement that celebrates culture and design.
Z8 a BMW Icon
The BMW Z8 captivated crowds at BMW Superfest, where BMW Parramatta / Castle Hill proudly showcased this extraordinary roadster as one of only two Z8s on display at the event. As attendees marveled at its unmistakable design and engineering
pedigree, the Z8 stood as a testament to BMW’s ability to blend heritage with innovation.
The BMW Z8, introduced in 1999, is one of the most celebrated models in the marque’s history, merging breathtaking aesthetics with groundbreaking performance. With only about 5,700 units produced, this exclusive roadster holds a special place in the
hearts of enthusiasts and collectors, embodying BMW’s rich heritage and dedication to innovative engineering.
A Tribute to Heritage
The Z8 was inspired by the iconic BMW 507 of the 1950s, a car driven by notable figures like Elvis Presley. BMW designers aimed to capture the elegance and purity of the 507 while creating something strikingly modern. The Z8’s design, headed by Henrik Fisker, successfully honored the 507’s flowing lines, twin-kidney grille, and sleek proportions, blending classic aesthetics with contemporary touches. From its elongated hood to its muscular rear haunches, every angle of the Z8 exudes timeless appeal.
The Power Within: Engineering Excellence
Under the hood, the Z8 boasted a naturally aspirated 4.9-liter V8 engine borrowed from the BMW M5, delivering 400 horsepower and 370 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant, mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, enabled the Z8 to go from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds, making it one of the fastest roadsters of its time. The chassis was equally impressive, constructed from lightweight aluminum for an ideal balance of agility and strength. BMW’s careful tuning gave the Z8 a perfectly weighted steering feel, precise handling, and a ride that balances comfort and sportiness.
The Z8 in Pop Culture and Collectibility
The Z8 also made its mark in popular culture, starring in the James Bond film The World Is Not Enough, where its elegance and power fit seamlessly into the Bond universe. Beyond the silver screen, the Z8 has seen its value soar in the collector’s market. As a limited
production model, its rarity has kept demand high, with many well-maintained examples fetching premium prices at auctions.
Driving the Legacy Forward
Even decades after its launch, the BMW Z8 remains an icon, celebrated for its design, performance, and the experience it delivers to those fortunate enough to drive it. Its combination of heritage-inspired styling, cutting-edge engineering, and exclusivity has cemented its place in automotive history as one of the most cherished BMW models. For BMW aficionados, the Z8 is more than a car—it’s a reminder of the brand’s commitment to excellence, a celebration of its past, and a nod to the future.
EURO WERKE Superfest
Words Euro Werke
Photos AJGreen Photography
We heard it down the Grapevine.
When we first heard about the BMW Club of NSW’s plans to create a ‘BMW Superfest’ right here in Sydney we were excited… to say the least. We’re huge BMW Club supporters and long-term members, the thought of a big event run by the club and for the community… is something we’re all about!
We knew we wanted to get involved so when Ash from the BMW Club of NSW reached out to us regarding a trade stand and potential event sponsorship, it took us the whole of 1-second to decide. We opted-in to becoming naming sponsors of the ‘Super-Sprint’ element of the day; this would allow us not only take-part in the event with our own track specific vehicles but have a dedicated space to display other elements of EuroWerke to the BMW community.
Locked in and ready to go.
About 4 weeks out from the event, the organisers invited all the sponsors down to Sydney Motorsport Park which included BMW Parramatta, BMW Castle Hill, IGL Coatings and yours truly – to do some planning, choose our locations and ask any questions we may have. When the day came, we had only two questions…
1. Can we have Pitt Garages 1 to 4 and the area behind it?
2. Would we be able to bring our Dyno for exhibitions runs / demos?
The answer to both questions was, “YES!” but with one request… that we go “above and beyond!” Challenge accepted. The goal for us was to bring ‘EuroWerke’ to the track, not just our logo and
a few cars but we wanted our stand and the cars on exhibition to look and feel like the real EuroWerke. The following few weeks went like a blur, from designing and building our trade stand – to finishing off the aerodynamics on our track car. With help from the whole team, everyone made a difference to ensuring it was all completed and organised on time.
Suddenly, it’s the week of the event!
Like a snap of the fingers, the 4 weeks leading up to event were gone in a flash! But thanks to our whole team pitching in, we were ready.
On Friday the 6th we packed a truck with everything we needed to bring EuroWerke to the track. Half of our front office, our Hub-Dyno, our custom-built art gallery & shop fit-out. Of course, a whopping 18 cars had been locked in and ready to attend, but at this point still needed a wash and quick doubled check before the event. The final piece to the puzzle was loading our race car M140i onto its trailer and just like that – we were ready!
Ready, Steady… Event Day is upon us!
Come 5am on Sunday a small ‘AM’ team met at the Werke-shop for final checks and to convoy it over together to Sydney Motorsport Park. Hitting the road in a small convoy is always fun, we had everything from the later model go-fast BMW’s to some classic ‘all about the experience’ E30’s. After a cruise down the M7, we arrived around at SMP around 6:30am where we were greeted by an empty track and only a few other BMW’s to be seen.
Like an organised orchestra, we hoped right into action and began the set up; first on the list was setting up our pitt-garage, which included our shop, art gallery, hang out area and dyno. With our
SUPERFEST: EURO WERKE
team in sync, it didn’t take long until our focus moved outside, placing each car, just-so, to entice event goers to go with the flow and find themselves in our pitt-garage and hopefully basking in the atmosphere.
It’s game-time.
Gates opened at 10am, but the crowds really did start to build by 9am. The event itself was based around the 6th round of the BMW Club of NSW Super-Sprint, which had 100 race cars entered and ready to hit the track. The figure eight was turned into a Show ‘n’ Shine with 250 BMW’s registered and being judged for awards. If you thought that was enough, there was also a Concours with around 40 pristine BMW’s and about 15 trade stands from the BMW community. The event was diverse, and it was BUSY!
No better time than right now for a BIG-THANKS the customers who donated their car and time for the event; Thony, Ashleigh, Josh, Rik, Georgios, Tim, Chris, Elif, and Dee! Our stand wouldn’t have been what it was with you all. Thank-you!
Our stand had some newly designed merch for sale, including T-Shirts, Hoodies and Hats, along with displaying an assortment of BMW specific O-SPEC and Wagner Tuning products. But the real attraction to our stand was our Dyno.
Live tuning was a hit.
Our plan with the dyno was relatively simple, in the morning we were locked in to complete a custom ECU Tune on Flex Fuel for a Toyota A90 Supra and in the afternoon, we would get Grimace locked and loaded for some power-runs. At 11am we began the 98octane tune for the Supra which drew in a small crowd of spectators. After a few runs Ozzy had the custom 98-oct TUNE+ ECU tune dialled in making a very healthy 323rwkw @ 5150rpm and 649nm @ 3895rpm. A couple hours later and after a few cheeky hot laps on the racetrack, Ozzy was ready to complete the Supra and its tune. This time moving his focusing to the E50 (Ethanol) tune. A few more runs were required this time round, which the larger crowd didn’t complain about. By the end of it the Supra on E50 made a strong 397rwkw @ 5020rpm and 838nm @ 3755rpm. Beast mode activated.
The highlight was Grimace
Come 2pm it was time for Grimace to do a handful of exhibition runs on the dyno and like bees to honey the crowds came running. Now we knew people would enjoy themselves seeing some high-powered euro-cars on the dyno up close, but we did not think we’d see the sea of phones recording and smiling faces at the end of every run. Grimace looked as if he was giving out ethanol blow-dries with the by-standers in crowd hair styles going every direction when standing at the rear of him. Grimace was the highlight, for many event goers and for us!
SUPERFEST: EURO WERKE
But wait there’s still awards.
Two of our display vehicles were also entered in the Show N Shine, being Chris and his borderline perfect M4 [M4 IRL] and Ashleigh and her ever evolving M3 [R8TD M]. Chris took award 3rd place judged-over-all, and Ash scored 3rd place for People’s Choice! If that wasn’t a nice enough cherry on top for an amazing event Parade Laps were up next and were an opportunity for all Show ‘n’ Shine entrants and trade vehicles to hit the track for an 80kmph lap. After the parade laps there was one more session for the Super-Sprint and inevitably pack-up. What an event!
Thanks
BMW Club of NSW smashed the ball out of the park on this, and it only being the first time they’ve done it – we’re even more excited to see where it goes next year. There is one thing for sure though, we will be there, and we will for sure being going above and beyond once again. Thank-you to the BMW Club of NSW, Ash, and of course all our customers who came out to enjoy the event alongside us. It was definitely one to remember!
IGL presents
SUPER SHINE!
Words IGL Coatings
Photos AJGreen Photography and Victor Yee
Long term BMW Drivers Club of NSW member and supporter IGL Coatings Australia (formerly Leading Edge Detailing) were incredibly proud to attend the first BMW SuperFest and sponsor the show and shine category.
Ayman Khamas of IGL Coatings Australia was not only impressed with the number and quality of the vehicles on display for the show and shine but also at how well the event was managed throughout the day, a huge accomplishment for the BMW club committee and volunteers.
Ayman extends his thank you to the event organisers and all attendees who visited the IGL Coatings Stand to introduce themselves, purchase IGL products and say hi as well as congratulations to all of the show and shine and supersprint winners of the event.
Super Sprint
SUPER SIX
We love Gardner Circuit, that is the Grand Prix Circuit at Sydney Motorsport Park. What could be better than a sunny spring day, having 98 cars on the grid, 106 drivers entering and an audience there to see us drive. Some say the audience was at Sydney Motorsport Park for some other purpose, but I noticed them all enjoying our speed and thrills on the circuit and then having the opportunity to push us aside for some Parade Laps.
Check out the images with the oldest car running, and doing a fabulous job, being a 1973 2002. Great to see 3 racing E30 M3s
and a very wide range of models competing with many brandnew G Series BMWs showing the way. 97 Drivers set times with one driver covering 31 laps and a few up around 29 laps. That’s around 110 KMs of high-speed racetrack driving and at an average speed over 110KMph.
Thanks to a great group of volunteers who ran this event and made its success really significant.
Words Bob Williams
Photos AJGreen Photography and Victor Yee
SUPERFEST
SUPER 6 SMSP
SUPERFEST : SUPERSPRINT
PARADE ON
While not all of us are destined to be Super Sprint stars, BMW Superfest offered enthusiasts a unique chance to experience the legendary Gardner Circuit at Sydney Motorsport Park. With speeds capped at 80 km/h, participants enjoyed a controlled but thrilling track session that allowed everyone to feel the pulse of the circuit. Under the guidance of race control and with a closed track, it was a safe and exciting opportunity for all.
Watching the endless stream of BMWs snake their way through the track, I lost count of the cars, but with groups as large as 80 vehicles on course, it was a sight to behold. Each model showcased its distinct personality, weaving in harmony yet showcasing individuality—something only a brand like BMW could inspire.
What made the experience even more electrifying was seeing all the cars on display earlier in the day now come to life on track. The sound of engines revving and the sight of these powerful machines roaring past the crowds created an atmosphere that was as engaging as it was unforgettable.
BMW Superfest truly brought enthusiasts closer to the action, allowing fans to witness both the legacy and innovation of BMW in motion. For all who watched, it was a front-row seat to the essence of BMW performance.
Words Andrew Green
Photos AJGreen Photography and Victor Yee
SUPER SNAPPERS
Superfest through the
During Superfest it was not just cars that came in droves but a number of very talented photographers, some regulars, some new to the club and it’s events. Over the next few pages you will see what they captured, how the event looked through their eyes and just how talented each photographer can be.
In order as you see them, we have:
• AJGreen Photography,
• Victor Yee.
• Ikuropanda (Henry),
• Sydney Car Scene (Brandon),
• Henrys Car Photography
Intro Andrew Green
IKUROPANDA (HENRY)
SYDNEY CAR SCENE (BRANDON)
FOUR MotorKhana
Photos Victor Yee
POINTS
Return to
ONE RACEWAY
The return of One Raceway for all Motorsports fans in NSW and region has been a long time coming with BMWDCNSW last running at the old Wakefield Park back on 13 August 2022.
Wakefield Park (c.1993) was essentially forced to close in late 2022 following a series of noise and DA related hiccups. The new owners spearheaded by the energetic visionary Steve Shelley bought the old race track in late 2022 and worked tirelessly with local council, businesses, residents, and motorsport groups to improve the iconic race track and bring back to the NSW region the iconic and improved One Raceway.
Parts of the old Wakefield track has been widened including turn 1, the previous final turn is now reconfigured, banked and widened. Access to the old pit area as well as garages have all been improved plus a multi purpose parking/skid pan area created on the southern end of the facility. The old track was approx 2.2 km in length and the new One Raceway format is now 2.35 km of glorious tarmac whilst still keeping the iconic up hill turn 4 and ‘Fish Hook’ turn 6. A unique feature of One Raceway is the ability to reverse the running of events in a anti-clockwise layout or ‘Shelley’ as it’s been nick named.
In all, 77 cars registered for Super Sprint 6 at One Raceway on 19th October with members from both clubs converging from Sydney including usual BMWDC NSW suspect: Ash Sherry, Mark Boudib, Nick Peek, Brett Stevens, Peter Kilner and BMWCCC members: Phil Alexander, Aaron Domio and myself plus regional NSW member Matt Foley all the way from Huskisson !
It was an early start for some of our Sydney and Husky friends, whilst yours truly enjoyed a more leisurely 6:00 start. Others that decided to stay over night at Goulburn had a sleep in until 0700 !
Inall,77carsregistered for the first run at OneRacewayon19thOctober
Gates opened before 0730 and what a sight it was to behold. Brand new racetrack, fantastic pit areas, clean facilities, smiling faces, the smell of fuel being burnt, gaggles of Porsches and hordes of BMWs for everyone to Oooo and Ahhh over. Scrutineering was quickly dispatched, drivers signed on, timing equipment collected, driver briefing completed and the first cars in Group 1 were on the dummy grid by 0920.
Our joint return of One Raceway with the Porsche Club of NSW and BMW Driver’s Club NSW did not get to sample the ‘Shelley’ so we will have to do this another time.
Sighting and warm up laps were dispatched by all 5 groups with minimal fuss and what a track she has become. Fast, flowing with brand new tarmac, smooth kerbs, lots of bitumen run off in turn 1 and final turn 11. The newly configured turn 1, 10 and 11 had many of the old hands trying various lines to optimise their lap times. The morning flew past with all groups successfully having at least 3 sessions out. Of the 77 cars, only 2 suffered minor damage with a bonnet making a get away on a ex-Cup car and a 993 clipping some signage on the infield coming out of turn 11.
Words and Photo Marcus Hon
W H Y C H O O S E U S ?
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Lunch time also meant appreciation laps for our very generous flag marshals and volunteers and I again did my best to scare my good mate Michael Wakeling around the beautiful track. (at least I didn’t value the real estate as much as I did at BMW Superfest!)
The afternoon sessions were also completed smoothly with very little incidents. This was a combination of what I would call one of the safer tracks in NSW/VIC, the quality of the driving and the careful attention to detail that Steve and his team at One Raceway have put towards the facility. From a spectator’s perspective, One Raceway is brilliant, with multiple viewing areas for people to get up and personal with the drivers and their machines. The sound abatement walls do their best to keep the neighbours sane during epic battles, whilst the viewing platform on top of the sound
One Raceway
TIMES
abatement wall on turn 11 also serve as a great vantage point for photographers and videographers.
As usual, these events don’t come together by themselves, so a big thank you to the Motorsport team at both PCNSW and BMWDCNSW plus all the volunteers, flag marshals and staff at One Raceway. Super Sprint days like this have multiple purposes for drivers, spectators and their family and friends. They help bring together car communities, allows members to catch up, lets drivers hone their race skills in a safe environment, takes speed off the road and also maintains the economy in regional towns like Goulburn in NSW and Winton in Victoria.
If you are on the fence about joining us at 1 of these events, join us on a ‘Come Try Day’. Good track drivers make better road users, so see you at the next track meet.
MEMBER BENEFITS
Bavariacars offer BMW Drivers Club members discounts on selected services. Contact Marno.
BMW
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
02 9438 1669
www.bmwise.com.au
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
BEE-EMS Car Service Centre is a BMW Specialist with over 35 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
www.mybm.com.au
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
Unit D/39 College Street, Gladesville NSW 2111
02 9879 7557
www.bavariacars.com.au
Eurowerke (formerly Hills Eurohaus) provide BMW Drivers Club NSW members the highest quality service experience. In-house N54, N55, B58 & S55 Development. Custom Dyno Tuning on our AWD DynaPack Hub Dyno Available.
Show us your membership card & receive 10% off on all service work & 5% off on all Performance Tuning. All members also entitled to a free loan car (must be prebooked!)
Unit 12b/8 Gladstone Rd, Castle Hill, NSW 2154
02 9899 6618
www.eurowerke.com.au
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 Adam Burgess 02 9648 3366 www.advanperformance.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
Club members receive a full trade discount with presentation of your club card – up to 40% off retail. Ask for Michael or Keith.
141 Alexander Street, Crows Nest NSW 2065
02 9438 4588
www.frysspares.com. au
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
Show your club card at participating BMW Dealers across Australia to enjoy 10% off parts and lifestyle accessories.
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
BODY CARE
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.
88 Falconer Street, West Ryde NSW 2114 02 9807 5677
www.bashaautohaus.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.
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.
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.
0430 164 123
www.renovoaustralia.com.au
IGL Coatings Australia
Protective Surface Coatings and Car Care Products
10% off for BMW Club members when using check out code BMWCLUB www.iglcoatings.com.au
02 9621 4701
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.
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
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POWERFUL. PERKS MADE
Programme Benefits for BMW Drivers Club New South Wales:
Complimentary BMW Service Inclusive for 3 years or 60,000kms.* • 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. Alternatively, call 1800 635 758, or email corporate@bmw.com.au.