March has been a wonderfully full month for BMW Drivers Club Melbourne, with a fantastic mix of motorsport, social outings, and community involvement. It’s been great to see so many members participating, volunteering, and supporting one another throughout the month.
Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix – 4–8 March
We began the month with the excitement of the F1 Australian Grand Prix. Many of our members attended as spectators, but a large number were also there in an official capacity. Your professionalism and commitment continue to make us proud, and it’s always impressive to see our club so well represented at such a major international event.
The 4th of March was also Jo’s birthday. While we were in North Melbourne for one of my hospital visits, several of our members surprised her with a lovely dinner. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved. It has been a challenging time for Jo as she has been looking after me, and this thoughtful gesture gave her a much needed break. Your kindness truly meant a lot to both of us.
Geelong Mid-Week Drive – 10 March
Our Geelong mid-week drive was another terrific outing. Attendance continues to grow, and it’s wonderful to see more members joining these relaxed weekday events. The route, the weather, and the company all made for a very enjoyable day.
Waverley BMW iX3 Neue Klasse Launch night – 12 March
We were invited to provide some cars to assist the launch of the next generation of BMWs, the Neue Klasse. It was a lovely evening, mingling with staff and guests and looking at the next generation of BMW cars. Apparently if you want one you may have to wait at least 12 months, as most of the first allocation of cars has already been sold. So keep your eye out on the roads for the Neue Klasse cars rolling out very soon. The i3 is next.
Phillip Island Classic – Festival of Speed – 14 – 15 March
We had an excellent turnout for our display at the Phillip Island Classic. The cars looked fantastic, and once again several of our members were officiating throughout the event. Thank you to all who volunteered events of this scale simply don’t happen without dedicated officials, and your contribution is invaluable.
West Gippsland Drive – 21 March
Our West Gippsland drive was another highlight of the month. Starting from Berwick BMW, one of our favourite dealerships, we were also joined by the BMW bike club, who happened to be heading out on their own ride. The driving roads were superb, the lunch destination even better, and it was great to see new members attending and having such a great time. These drives really capture the spirit of our club.
E30 Racing 20 - 22 March
A large group of our members racing at Winton. Good fair clean racing for the weekend had Alex Jory win the round. Congratulations Alex and also happy birthday for you on the Sunday.
Upcoming Events
3 April – Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal
Please note the new location in Black Rock. This is always a meaningful event for us, and we look forward to another strong turnout in support of a wonderful cause. Just and FYI over the years we have raised over $17k at this event.
7 April – Coffee & Chat – Geelong
A relaxed drop-in evening for members in the Geelong region. A great opportunity to catch up and welcome new faces.
26 April - Variety “Stars on Track” passenger laps and Car display
Our Variety Stars on track event is to offer sick children and their families the opportunity of spending some time on the track and forgetting their day to day pain and make some great memories. Not wanting to put your car on the track or you don’t have a track licence? We have a car display including celebrating 40 Years of M3. Display your car and receive complimentary parade laps at lunch time
Our Variety Stars on track event is to offer sick children and their families the opportunity of spending some time on the track and forgetting their day to day pain and make some great memories.
Not wanting to put your car on the track or you don’t have a track licence? We have a car display including celebrating 40 Years of M3. Display your car and receive complimentary parade laps at lunch time
26 April –Parade Laps sponsored by Waverley BMW
Our Parade Laps will be held on the 26th, proudly sponsored by Waverley BMW. This is shaping up to be a fantastic day, and we encourage everyone to come along and take part.
Events to Remember
2 May – Presentation Night (Murder Mystery Theme)
Always one of our most enjoyable evenings—this year with a fun twist.
6 June - Kings Birthday Long Weekend Trip – Echuca
A great getaway planned for the long weekend, with plenty of driving, sightseeing, and social time.
19 July – Christmas in July – Beaumaris Motor Yacht Squadron
A favourite on our social calendar. Save the date for a warm winter celebration by the water.
A Special Thank You – Welfare Team
I would also like to give a very sincere thank you to our Welfare Team, who have been working overtime to support Jo and myself during my treatment. Their daily check-ins, visits, and constant care have made an enormous difference and have helped us both more than words can express.
My health is slowly returning to something resembling normal, and I’m hopeful you may see me at the Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal Day. I may not be able to stay long, but it is an event I am aiming to attend.
Membership & Club Support
Membership continues to grow, which is both humbling and encouraging. Our sponsors remain incredibly supportive, and we are grateful for their ongoing commitment to the club.
A heartfelt thank you also goes to the members who have stepped up over the past few months to help lighten the load for Jo and I. Your support has been noticed and deeply appreciated.
March has been a month full of energy, enthusiasm, and community spirit. Thank you to everyone who has participated, volunteered, supported, or simply shared in the fun. Our club continues to thrive because of the people in it, and I’m grateful for each and every one of you.
Looking forward to another exciting month ahead.
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
BMW's core brand value (originally joy through using, then joy through driving or sheer driving pleasure) is all about bringing joy to its customers. We had a particularly joyous day today driving from Berwick BMW to Saltwater at Phillip Island.
We were warmly greeted at Berwick BMW by dealer principal Neil Phillips and his team. They regularly host BMW motorcyclists before enjoying their run as part of their recent expansion into Mottorad, including today, with an assortment of BMW's finest 2 wheeled machines.
The new car showroom was a joy to behold, including a fetching M2 in Frozen Pure Grey metallic.
Our drive took us through some wonderful scenery and very satisfying roads to a delightful lunch.
Most rewarding of all was the friendly conversations including our newer members, welcoming them to our club.
Lawrence Glynn #3
Two days of classic racing, including our beloved Group C and Group A ex JPS Team BMW cars joined this year by a "Super Tourer" from the Euro scene after Group A.
A great friendly atmosphere, walk around the pits and the paddock, chat with the teams (subject to operational requirements of course) and mix with a fabulous crowd who all love cars.
It was not sunny, which is good except for the photos. It did not rain, which is all good.
Some lovely cars in our display, more on Saturday than Sunday. And lots of iterest and cahts going on.
Altogether, a brilliant weekend.
In case you have missed it, BMW have just reset their entire styling and technology platforms - a clean sheet transformation. They call it "Neue Klasse" - New Class - after the 1961 total reset of the same name.
It a bit like designing an axe in 1961 when shovels had been used before. Since then the axe handle has been improved and reshaped and the axe head has been refined and made from better materials. There is even a vibrating head to help penetrate the tree. The product is much improved, muc h better than one could have predicted in 1961, but still basically an axe. Now we have a chain saw. All new for the future with greater opportunity for further enhancement.
The first Neue Klasse (2.0) vehicle released is the iX3 - the X3 is now BMW's biggest selling product. This is a big deal for BMW as over 17 billion Euros have gone into the Neue Klasse project.
From the responses at the Waverley BMW launch night and the on-line reviews (by professional!), every cent has ben well spent.
As a nice contrast we provided a BMW 700 - the last car BMW designed and produced before the 1961 Neue Klasse - for display.
All official BMW clubs are part of the BMW Clubs International Council, represented by delegates from the regional and umbrella organisations - BMW Clubs Australia in our case.
Here is the report made to the BMW Clubs Australia AGM by our International Delegate - Bob Williams from BMW Drivers Club NSW.
February has been a truly memorable month for BMW Drivers Club Melbourne, filled with fantastic events, great company, and the kind of shared experiences that remind us why this club is so special. The enthusiasm, friendship, and passion shown by our members continues to make every gathering something to look forward to.
Events Highlights
A wonderful turnout of enthusiastic drivers enjoyed a run through our beautiful countryside. It was fantastic to see so many smiling faces, and even better to finish the day with a relaxed dinner together.
Our members once again presented an impressive collection of beautifully prepared cars. Thank you to everyone who displayed their pride and joy—this event never disappoints, and your efforts make it shine every year.
A group of our racing fans travelled to Bathurst to enjoy the comfort of our 12‑hour suite and a weekend of world class GT3 and GT4 racing. Congratulations to the BMW WRT team for securing a well earned 3rd place podium. The racing was exceptional from start to finish.
A fun, relaxed day supporting a great cause. Our members brought along some stunning cars, enjoyed the atmosphere, and helped make the event a success.
Although not an official DCM event, many of our members attended and proudly represented the club. The photos looked fantastic—thank you to all who went along.
A perfect evening drive with great roads, great cars, and even better company. We finished with a lovely meal shared among friends—everything our club stands for.
A group of members attended to see me receive a Service Award. Unfortunately, I was unwell and unable to attend, and I sincerely thank Jo for kindly accepting the award on my behalf.
A strong group of our racing members travelled to One Raceway for the first round of the 2026 series. The racing was competitive, the camaraderie was strong, and it was wonderful to see friendships renewed as a new season begins.
Dates to Remember
There are some truly fantastic events ahead—please register early so you don’t miss out.
A Personal Note
Many of you have reached out with kind words, messages, and support during my recent health challenges. Your compassion means more than I can express. I have now completed my treatment, but recovery will continue over the next few months. The doctors have reminded me that healing takes time, and I need to listen to my body.
Jo has been by my side every step of the way, and I know many of you have also been thinking of her. She has been incredible, but understandably exhausted, so we both need a little time and privacy to rest and regain our strength. We appreciate your understanding and patience during this period.
My heartfelt thanks go to our wonderful Welfare Team. Their quiet, constant support has meant the world to us. Experiencing their care firsthand has reminded me just how special this club family truly is.
Club Update
Membership continues to grow steadily each month, which is something we can all be proud of. This club is built on friendship, passion, and generosity, and it is wonderful to see new members joining and embracing that spirit.
I’ll leave this report here and hope to see many of you out and about soon. If Jo and I are not able to attend an event, please know that we are thinking of you all and deeply appreciate your kindness, patience, and support.
Warm regards,
Graeme Bell | President
Some notes from the BMW Clubs Australia AGM 2026
BMW Clubs Australia, the umbrella group for all the BMW clubs in Australia, has a total membership now of 6770, car membership has almost doubled since 2018 having been growing very slowly until then.
BMW Clubs International Council, of which BMW Clubs Australia, along with the other umbrella groups around the world,i s a member, have, in total, just over 250,000 club members.
Australia and Canada are the only umbrella organisations to receive direct support from their local BMW Group office.
As at 31 January 2026 there are just over 416,000 BMWs registered in Australia
70% of BMW sales in Australia are now X model.
Most BMW plants are still running at maximum capacity.
The Neue Klasse range will all be offered as ICE, PHEV or BEV, but not all options for all models in Australia. Hydrogen is also a possibility.
To meet the New Vehicle Emission Standards BMW sales will need to be 50% Battery Electric Vehicle by 2029.
The Neue Klasse platform development cost €10 billion.
In 2025 globally BMW brand sold 2,165,768 vehicles, down 1.4%. The Group sales were up 0.5% as MINI rose 17.7%.
In Australia BMW brand sales were up 1.9%, taking 24.9% of the segment. MINI sales increased by 37.7%. BMW sold 5,137 BEV coming 4th overall for BEV.
Over 20% of BMWs sold in Australia are made in China.
Globally “M” cars (includes M Performance) make up 3.3% of sales, 23.3% in Australia. The best selling ”M” car worldwide is the X3 M50.
Highlight of the meeting was a preview of the Neue Klasse iX3 -the first product from the all new styling and technical platform, the first complete refresh since the original Neue Klasse (1.0 now I guess) in 1960. Neue Klasse means "new class".
The iX3 will be available in Australia later this year. Seen here alongside the i Vision Dee colour changing concept car.
Background : The Shelford Duce Race is an annual fund raiser for the Shelford Progress Association, the Shelford Primary School and cricket club at which one can "buy" a duck and get a prize if it wins.
A different twist on a raffle.
Contrary to the advertised inclement weather, most of the rain waited until later in the day. But, during the morning, a quick dust storm followed by a light shower left every car coated in a similar layer of matching grime.
There was a strong turnout of onlookers admiring our eight club cars on display—many thanks to everyone who showed up. Our flags were placed at each end of our display which added to the “mystique of the marque.”
The show includes an opportunity for all to display their magnificent cars, to enjoy some light entertainment, browse all the stalls and indulge in the many food options available.
Organizers were happy to see more visitors than expected this year, given the gloomy forecast.
The number of vendors also increased (including the Federal Member for Roads and
Infrastructure with her own stall). It was a wonderful family day for people of all ages, complete with plenty of activities for kids. appearances from Ambulance Victoria and the SES, a roving circus performer and several musicians.
At 3pm 1,500 rubber duckies were let loose in the Leigh River, with spectators cheering on their purchased ducks to the finish line and hoping to take home a prize for coming in the first ten to cross the line.
Terry Lane #965
By way of exaplantaion, the Bathurst 12 Hour is a race for GT3 cars run over 12 hours. GT3 cars are a tightly regulated racing category based on production cars (mainly Grand Touring in nature) but with many alterations allowed. The category uses a "Balance of Performance" (BoP) process to handicap the cars so that, in theory and all going well, their performance is identical on a idealised circuit. But, on any actual circuit some cars will perforem better than others sa each has different strengths and weaknesses.
The bottom line is that the teams can do little to alter the cars during a season, so every, say, BMW M4 GT3, should be the same as any other. But, in endurance racing, stategy is key. Starting at this event last year BMW's factory backed team, WRT, employed a clever strategy to use a little less fuel and thus a bigget gap between pit stops giving them greater opportunity to make a re-fueling stop under a safety car (giving up less track distance and time). And it worked returning them a 1-2 finish.
But that was last year, and everyone is wiser this year!
Day one at the Bathurst 12 hour was a blast. Super comfortable in our corporate suite with plenty of action. Also it was great to see plenty of schoolchildren!
Pirelli fit 12 sets of tyres per car, $1,840,000 worth over the event. Plus GST! Some teams leave the fitting to the last minute. WRT - W Racing Team have all their tyres fitted already.
The second day was equally excelent in our comfortable and well serviced suite above the pits. We had the privilege of some time with WRT BMW M4 car #32 drivers Jordan Pepper and Kelvin van der Linde who shared with us their love of the Mount Panorama circuit (top 3 of their tracks worldwide) and their perspectives of driving the track ( a lot more challenging than a simulator would suggest). Strategy is all important they advised, so not being top of the time sheets after qualifying and the Pole Battle (7th for #46 and 12th for #32) probably won't worry them too much.
The afternoon was rounded off by a guided garage tour through WRT - W Racing Team garage, marvelling at the banks of screens for data, not just on their car but what they can get on the competitors to optimise the strategy. The team were not fussed by the grid positions but, prophetically, were concerned about first corner issues.
The Ken Done recreation art car #32 looks amazing.
Indescribably superb day for the main race at the Bathurst 12 Hour, watching with all the comforts of a corporate suite and very enjoyable and enthusiastic company and the magical atmosphere of a pre-dawn start.
Car #32 made an opportunistic lunge into a gap about 1.01 car's width heading into the first corner and got tagged on the outside right front corner. Some time later a pit stop was required to repair this (see image above) which sent them tumbling down the timing screens.
Such is the nature of endurance racing that much later on, after a safety car period. #32 was at the front of the pack in P1. Sadly it was punted off (at corner 1 again) and finishing 12th.
Car #46 had been there or thereabouts all day and finished 3rd after being out of luck with pit stops and safety cars.
It was a fantastic weekend with great racing and even better company.
Nice cruise today with fellow club members on the pre-Torquay car show cruise , some nice twisty roads , test out the Tune and suspension, great weather for a top down cruise, smelling the eucalyptus driving through the Forrest roads, love being back out n about thanks to all who made the day enjoyable.
The Torquay car show was just the tonic I needed, with my recent bad run of health conditions, heart attacks, knee replacements, mental health. To sit and chat about life with genuine people was uplifting, as was getting the 46 out of the garage 2 days in a row. The turn out from bmwdcm was fantastic.
Terry Braddock # 830
Excellent day at the Torquay Motor Show. We had a great turnout including some non-BMWs for added variety. Lots of interest and interactions. I was particularly heartened by the interest from youngsters who have a passion for motor vehicles. Brilliant to have meaningful chats with them and to see a "press gallery" of youngsters at the entry/exit taking photos and giving encouraging waves. Many thanks to our wonderful members for helping with set up and pack down, interacting with the public and each other, and making it a tremendous day.
Lawrence GLynn #3
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