Ju
Graeme Bell #1
What a weekend! What an absolutely cracking weekend! But let me not jump too far ahead — because the road to the Winton Festival of Speed was just as meaningful as the chequered flag moments themselves.
After my first test day, we had a couple of weeks of solid car prep. With four Bell cars heading out onto the track, I was determined that every one of us would arrive looking sharp and race‑ready. Sean spent days stickering his car and I mean days. The end result was worth every minute: a brilliant BMW art‑car‑inspired design with mirrored internal parts across the decals. It looked sensational.
Jess’s car had been prepped earlier, and thanks to our practice day, we’d already discovered and fixed a few brake issues. Chris had his car tucked away at his workshop, and seeing as it hadn’t raced for a few years, it needed a tidy‑up and a bit of love to get it back to race spec. My own car, my original car, was ready in spirit, but not in horsepower. My race engine blew up a few years ago, and with all my medical appointments, I simply hadn’t had the time or energy to build a new one. So, in went a standard 2.5 out of an E34, probably done 200,000km or more. Not ideal, but it would have to do. At this point, I was just grateful to be racing at all. Jo had designed a sticker which was a dedication to surviving both prostate and throat cancer, intertwining the two ribbons with a quote on there which I placed on my car with pride. Thanks Darl.
I’d been working hard on my body, doing the exercises my medical team recommended, and I genuinely felt good. Strong. Ready. With Sean’s help, we loaded three cars at my workshop for an early Thursday start, a full day of practice prior to the three-day race weekend. I was excited. Nervous. Proud. After everything I’d been through in the last 18 months, there were moments where I truly didn’t think I’d ever be strong enough to sit behind the wheel of a race car again. But there I was, up early, on the road, heading to Winton with Jo and my kids and my family behind me. It felt like a victory before I’d even turned a lap.
Jo and I arrived around 8:45, unloaded, and headed down to check in with the kids. Both of us are also scrutineers, one of the many hats we wear as Motorsport Australia officials, and the race secretary asked if we could help with logbook scrutineering until their appointed team arrived. So we did. Once we sorted the mountain of paperwork into audits and nil audits, Jo looked at me and said, “Go. Get out there with the kids. Blow the cobwebs off.” she had it covered, so off I went.
And oh, it felt good. I hadn’t lost it. The lines came back. The confidence came back. The joy came back. Being out there with 20 E30s and especially my family, it was something I’ll never forget.
We’d talked about recreating a photo taken 14 years ago at the end of a sprint day, a photo that sits proudly in my office. Jess checked with race control, got approval, and after our last session we lined up again, perfectly coordinated by Jess. Jo and Katie were appointed photographers, but Jo spotted one of the professional MA photographers nearby and asked her to help. The result? Stunning photos. Emotional. Beautiful. Memories captured forever.
After that, we headed to our accommodation for a good night’s rest. Qualifying was first session Friday morning, cold, slippery, foggy. We were combined with the Porsche 944s, making a grid of almost 40 cars. Traffic was heavy, but once I was out there, I felt good. Qualified well. And as I said before, I wasn’t out to break land‑speed records. I was out to celebrate 25 years of E30 Racing, something I helped start with two others and to be part of this milestone with my kids beside me.
I won’t bore you with blow‑by‑blow race battles, but with my lack of horsepower, the only way I could hold position was with race craft. Defending hard. Using knowledge. Making the car as wide as possible. It was fun, proper fun and great to debrief with the drivers afterwards. Good, clean racing. Shannon Cooper sat behind me for a bit and picked up a few tricks, which was great for his development.
All our E30s went home straight and running, except poor Zac, who blew two head gaskets and had to retire in Race 3. He did an amazing job to get an unknown car to the meeting in only a week only to have issues with how the engine had been built. But that’s racing, and part of the fun, having all the crew there to help try and fix it and keep it going.
The moral of the story? Never give up on your dreams. Work hard. Listen to your medical team. Exercise. Eat well. Surround yourself with your loved ones. Believe in yourself. This weekend will stay with me for the rest of my days and I hope with my children too, especially with that recreated photo as a beautiful memento.
And as a footnote: Chris and Katie’s baby is still cooking nicely. Thank you, Bump, for doing as instructed and not arriving early, allowing all the Bells to be out on or at the track together. It was wonderful having Katie, Jenna, Olivia, and especially Jo there with me, supporting me through the whole weekend. Jo was appointed E30 Category Rep for the weekend, spending much of her time up in the tower fixing issues and keeping things running smoothly all while recovering from shoulder surgery. She stepped in at the last minute and did an incredible job.
It was also fantastic to have so many DCM members come up too, some for the weekend, some for Saturday, some for Sunday, some for the display, some popping in to support us, some staying as pit crew. It meant a lot, and wonderful to have your support there. If you missed it, you can watch some of our races over the weekend on Blendline on YouTube, Saturday (afternon sessions only. E30 at abot 1:07) and Sunday (E30 at about 2:46 and 7:00), I actually got a bit of coverage on there too with my blocking skills.
Thank you for reading my story. I hope you enjoyed coming along for the ride. I’ll be back on track again soon, I don’t know when yet, but the bug has definitely bitten again. There’s an E30 Racing enduro at Sandown later in the year, and I definitely want to do that.
Photo : Peter Weaver Motorsport Photography, used with permission
Although the Winton Festival of Speed has never been very popular with our members we decided that for all the reasons laid out below it was too good to miss this year, so we made into a club event. I’ll be honest and admit that the turnout was not overwhelming but we had a bit of car display (with more interest than I expected) and a cracking day at the races.
There was plenty of action on the track and easy access to the pits and paddock with lots to talk about and observe.
The Winton Festival of Speed is organised by the Victoria Historic Racing Register, VHRR, who also organise the popular Phillip Island Classic in March.
The format and racing is very similar at the two events, most noticeably for us the inclusion of the Heritage Touring Car championship for Groups A and C (1980s “touring” cars – sedans) which feature the ex JPS Team BMW cars, or one of them as was the case at Winton.
These always provide great entertainment as the small, light and nimble E30 M3 battles with the more powerful Sierra Cosworths or the V8 powered Group C cars. Sometimes the BMW 635CSi joins in, usually doing rather better than it did in the day when, in Group C format, the rules were literally weighted against it.
This year’s event was enlivened by a round of E30 Racing’s BMW Drivers Cup championship, E30s have now qualified as Historic.
What made the E30 presence all the more special was the milestone 25 years anniversary, celebrated in style with a bumper grid which included a gaggle of Bells; Graeme (E30 Racing founding member and former champion), sons Sean and Chris (both former champions) and daughter Jess (current E30 Racing President in a beautiful newly built green car that looks way too nice to be on track).
Yes, Winton is a long way away but it was certainly worth the effort.
Lawrence Glynn #3 Photos : Simon Wilkins and Lawrence Glynn
About once a month we get together in Geelong for a casual coffee and chat - the coffee is optional and, I guess, so is the chat. Nothing complicated, turn up, look at other member's cars, talk to other members (about cars or whatever), coffee if you like, other things as well, go home.
The venue is chosen so we can be undercover but with the cars in full view. Should the weather be particularly bad we can retreat inside.
It is generally popular and an easy way to catch and stay in touch, share experiences and anecdotes, actually solve a few problems as well as theorise on how the world's problems should be solved!
Coming soon in September to Melbourne for a trial period!
Lawrence Glynn #3 Photos by Reinhold Schutz
Whilst Christmas tends to be a family affair Christmas in July is a great excuse to celebrate with friends. And we took full advantage of that with a magnificent view from the Beaumaris Motor Yacht Squadron augmented by lovely sunny weather.
A few items of Christmas attire lifted the mood resulting in several very enjoyable hours in very good company.
Out in the car park a strong selection of BMWs (one pretending to be a reindeer), and some non-BMWs, gave us something to admire before lunch.
By Graeme Bell #1
After a few years away from the driver’s seat and eighteen months of cancer treatment, I finally turned a wheel in anger again on Tuesday, 7th July, at Winton. A practice day for the upcoming Winton Festival of Speed. Even writing that sentence feels surreal. There were days during treatment when I wasn’t sure I’d ever get back to this world, the noise, the smell, the camaraderie, the adrenaline but there I was, helmet in hand, standing in the morning sun with my family around me.
We drove up the night before. I wanted as much rest as possible, knowing my stamina isn’t what it once was. Jo, Olivia, and I set up the garage on Monday, and it felt strangely comforting familiar motions, familiar tools, familiar smells. Olivia shadowed Jo and in her own way, and Jo, as always, kept everything steady and organised. That alone made me feel like I was already halfway home.
That evening we went out to dinner with Jo, Olivia, and Adrian. Sitting in Benalla again after so many years brought back memories of race weekends long past, the laughter, the nerves, the excitement. It felt good. It felt right.
Tuesday morning was cold; the kind of crisp Winton start that wakes you up whether you’re ready or not. But the sun was out, and as we arrived at the track, the sound of cars already circulating washed over me. That familiar hum sharp, mechanical, alive stirred something deep inside. I stood there for a moment, taking it in. After everything, I was back.
Having my family around me meant more than I can express. I gave Jo a huge hug before I climbed in the car. I’ll admit it I felt apprehensive. Not Racing for 4 years is a long time in Motorsport. Cancer takes a toll. But once I rolled out of pit lane, the old instincts began to flicker back to life. Apexes I hadn’t thought about in years came back to me. Lines I’d forgotten started to reappear. It wasn’t perfect, but it was mine.
One great moment of the day was following Chris around the circuit and then having him follow me in the next session. Two Bell boys, both re-learning skills we’d tucked away for far too long. There was something quietly powerful about that no pressure, no championship on the line, just two racers rediscovering who they are.
Sean found his groove quickly, as he always does. There were flashes of the speed we know he has, signs he’ll be right up the front come race weekend. Jess was doing brilliantly too until brake issues forced her to retire early, frustrating, but she handled it with her usual grit. And Katie, eight months pregnant, still came along to help and be part of the day. She and “Bump” reminded me exactly why I love this sport: it’s never just about the cars. It’s about the people who stand beside you.
Jo and Olivia even learned how to do tyre pressures watching them crouched beside the car, working together, made my heart swell. Our family doesn’t just support racing; we live it. Everyone chips in. Everyone belongs.
Sadly, one of our fellow E30 members had a misadventure with the wall, ending his day early. He’d been going so well, and it was tough to see. That’s racing the highs and lows arrive without warning.
But overall, our times were competitive. Our spirits were high. And for the first time since 2015 at Phillip Island, I was on track with my three kids again. That alone made the entire day worth it.
I’ve started a cancer exercise physiology rehabilitation program to help build my strength and stamina for the race weekend, but mainly for my return to life. I know my body isn’t what it used to be. I’m not expecting to win. That’s not the goal. The goal is to be part of the category I helped found 25 years ago a category that has shaped my life, my family, and my community for quarter of a century.
For those who don’t know, I started E30 Racing with two others all those years ago. To be returning now, with my children beside me, and a new grandchild on the way… it means more than I can ever fully explain.
We’re hoping the baby arrives on time, not early, because we want Chris out there with us. It would mean the world to have all of us on track together.
This is just Part 1 of my journey back. Join me as the weekend unfolds. There’s more to come, more emotion, more challenges, more joy and I’m proud, excited, and deeply grateful to be here.
If you are around and want to watch some great racing, drive up over the weekend and support this great category and our family who have been through a lot over theses past 18 months and help us achieve something which may not happen again in in a long while.
It is always a delight to step into a BMW dealership, even more so when it has been recently refurbished to the new BMW Corporate Identity standard such as at our good friends Waverley BMW. The atmosphere is more up-market hotel than car sales and a world away from the first BMW dealership I walked into in the 1970s. A much nicer place to be and filled with much nicer staff!
Dealerships these days are much more then just new car sales with a whole eco-system to help the customer get the very best out their BMW, going beyond log book servicing such as with help and tuition for the vast array of features in a modern car, and much more. Don’t be shy to reach out.
This setting was an ideal opportunity to make some presentations to those who were unable to attend our presentation dinner. Always nice to acknowledge our winners in public: Andy “Kaos” Oosterweghel, winner Class C Yokohama/Traction Tyres Drivers Championship 2025; Mike Skomina, winner Class D Yokohama/Traction Tyres Drivers Championship 2025; and Matt Kenny, winner People’s Choice, Xmas Show and Shine 2025 (for the 2nd year running).
Dealer Principle Nick Curcio informed us about the state of the new car market, BMW position and that of Waverley BMW with a quick tour of the workshops. A bit topic of interest was the transition to electric vehicles and the challenges that brings. Whilst Nick said he may not be able to answer every question he seemed to! So, we all left better informed and confident for the future.
Our thanks to Elle for arranging the refreshments and the whole Waverley BMW team.
Lawrence Glynn #3 Photos by MIke Skomina and Simon Wilkins
June has been another fantastic month for our Club, filled with great company, great cars and great memories.
We kicked off the month with the Kings Birthday Long Weekend in Echuca, and what a weekend it was. A large group joined us for three days of brilliant driving roads, stunning scenery and plenty of laughs. It’s always a joy to spend time with such a fun, supportive group of members — the camaraderie on these weekends is something truly special.
On 24 June, our Geelong-area members gathered for their Coffee & Chat Drop-In Meeting. As always, a terrific turnout and lots of lively conversation about all thing’s cars. These casual catch-ups continue to be a highlight for many.
Then on 27 June, we had one of our biggest events of the year — the Fox Museum Tour, with over 70 members attending. We split into two groups for a comprehensive tour of the collection, and the feedback has been outstanding. Incredible cars, a fantastic venue, plenty of parking, and wonderful to see so many new members joining in. A huge thank you to everyone who made the day run so smoothly.
Coming Up
We have a very full calendar ahead, so make sure these dates are in your diary:
Diary Dates to Remember
A Personal Note
In June, Jo and I managed to sneak away for a quick break in Fiji — some much needed rest and recovery. Thank you to everyone who patiently waited for CPS signatures until we returned. We’re back now and here if you need us.
Jo will be going in for an exploratory operation on her shoulder, which is still giving her trouble. From 8 July, please give her phone a rest so she can focus on healing. Your understanding means a lot.
We also received some sad news this month. One of our close members has been diagnosed with breast cancer and has begun treatment. We will keep her name private, but please keep her — and all our members facing challenges — in your thoughts and prayers. Our community is strong because we care for one another.
As many know, Jo does her annual Breast Cancer Research Walk in August. If you would like to support her fundraising, you can donate here: https://fundraise.nbcf.org.au/fundraisers/jomawson245718
Always remember, if you need help or support, or are going through something, you are not alone, you are part of our BMW Club Family, and we are here for you. If you need anything, reach out, that is what our Welfare team is for, to support you in your time of need. Anything, a shoulder to lean on or cry on, we are here for you.
Club Store
We have several items currently on sale in the Club Store — jump online and place your orders now. It’s a great time to stock up on Club gear.
June has been a month full of friendship, driving, laughter and community spirit — everything our Club stands for. Thank you to every member who attended, volunteered, supported, or simply shared a smile. Also, welcome to those new members that have joined us, it’s great to see new faces and I look forward to seeing you at one of our many upcoming events.
Stay safe, enjoy your driving, and see you out on the road.
BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc.
PO Box 81, Tyabb VIC 3913 Incorporated in Victoria #A0102695G BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc is a member of: BMW Clubs Australia and the BMW Clubs International Council Motorsport Australia Affiliated Motorsport Club
Lindsay Fox, he of the LinFox transport company, has used some of his considerable wealth to amass a stunning collection of rare and interesting cars, some of which are exhibited on rotation for all to enjoy in a suitably old building lovingly preserved and presented.
Our visit was so popular we had to be split into two groups so as to be able to properly view the displays.
Amongst which were two very special "road" cars heavily based on top flight competition cars - the AMG One (based on the Mercedes F1 hybrid era car) and the Jaguar XJR-15 (based on their Le Mans winning car). Both technically able to be road registered but ...
Staying with the racing theme, Ford's 2017 homage to its Le Mans winning Ford GT40 (OK, Ford paid for the GT40 to be built!) and the Godzilla Nissan Skyline from end of the Group A era in the Australian Touring Car Championship.
The totally unique "Sapphire Blue" Porsche collection, assembled by Gregor Piech, youngest son the one time Volkswagen Group boss Ferdinand Piech and great grandson of the famous Ferdinand Porsche, is now entirely in Fox's hands. It includes 9 of the 991 generation of 911s plus a few more all to the same colour scheme and detailing. Two of which were on show.
Somewhat of a contrast to the SS 100 "Jaguar" (built before the company switched names from SS - Swallow Sidecars - to Jaguar post WW2 for fairly obvious reasons).
And much more.
Text Lawrence Glynn #3 Photos Peter Williams #36
Saturday 6 June We all met at Yan Yean Reservoir to kick off our Kings Birthday Long Weekend adventure to Echuca. With 16 cars and 28 members, plus four children along for the ride, it was already shaping up to be a fantastic trip. It was wonderful to see everything from historic classics to modern hybrids and full bettry electric vehicle lined up and ready to roll.
UHF radios on, smiles all round, we set off toward Tahbilk Winery for our first rest stop. A few photos, a little wine tasting, and plenty of laughs later, we were back on the road and heading to Nagambie Distillery for lunch. What a venue, delicious food, brilliant service, and a gorgeous view over the lake. We even had a bit of free time to explore the town, although we missed the market by just 30 minutes… my timing wasn’t perfect, but the company made up for it.
From there we cruised to Rushworth, a charming historic town and a great spot for more photos and a quick drink. Next stop was Girgarre, where the new botanical gardens were a lovely surprise, peaceful, beautifully designed, and another perfect backdrop for car photos (as always!).
We rolled into Echuca and checked into the Mercure for the weekend. I’d arranged dinner onsite for the first night, so no one had to travel, and it was lovely having the restaurant to ourselves. We handed out a few missed presentation‑night awards, enjoyed a great meal, and watched new members start forming friendships. The kids were absolute superstars, beautifully behaved and a joy to have with us. After a big day, everyone headed off for a well‑earned rest.
Sunday – Choose Your Own Adventure
Sunday was deliberately relaxed so members could explore at their own pace. Graeme and I decided to visit the Torrumbarry Weir, and a few others had the same idea. While we were there, we got chatting to a young fellow who’d been out on his jet ski. Half joking, we mentioned going for a spin… next thing I knew, he’d called his boss and I was getting ready to hop on!
No wetsuit, no swimmers, just me, fully dressed, removing only my good jumper, socks, and shoes. I was sure I’d end up in the lake, but they looked after me like royalty. And what an experience — 118 km/h and only wet toes! I’d never been on a jet ski before, and it was absolutely brilliant.
Back in town, we wandered through the shops before boarding a 4 pm paddle steamer cruise. If you’ve never been to Echuca, it’s full of history, great cafés, and charming little shops, you could spend days exploring. The cruise was a highlight, with a fantastic commentary from the skipper.
Dinner that night was at the 1895 Royal Hotel, and this one was fully covered by the club thanks to the RACV regional grants we’re fortunate to receive each year. We sometimes top it up, but that’s what our club is about, giving back to our members and supporting regional communities. Another wonderful night of great food, great company, and great stories from everyone’s day out.
Monday – Homeward Bound
After a good night’s sleep, most of us met in the car park to begin the journey home. Two cars stayed behind, one for an extra relaxed day in Echuca, and another heading west to SA for more exploring.
Our first stop was Rochester to admire the incredible silo art. We’ve done several silo art trails as a club, and these are still my personal favourites. After the obligatory photos, we continued to Colbinabbin for morning tea and more silo art (and yes, more photos). Hot drinks and cake hit the spot perfectly.
From there, a few cars peeled off home early while the rest of us continued to Redesdale for lunch. We stopped just before town at a beautiful historic bridge where Peter went ahead to capture photos of every car crossing, a magic moment. The pub welcomed us early with true country hospitality, huge servings, and delicious food.
After lunch, everyone made their own way home, wrapping up another fantastic long weekend away with both familiar faces and new friends.
Why Our Trips Work So Well
The beauty of our weekends away is simple: You can do as much or as little as you like. Nothing is compulsory, our itinerary is a guide, not a rulebook. We love seeing members explore on their own or join in with the group.
We’re also thrilled with how well TourBoss is working for us. The trip notes popping up along the route, combined with UHF radios, mean members can travel at their own pace, stop for photos, or take detours without worrying about getting lost. The app keeps improving, and it’s making our adventures even better.
Join Us Next Time
If you haven’t yet joined one of our away weekends, have a look at our upcoming events, we run at least two a year, some longer than others, and they’re always memorable.
Thank you to everyone who came along and made this weekend such a joy. Here’s to many more adventures together.
Jo Mawson #2
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