BMW M Motorsport returns to Australia after an enforced three-year absence. BMW M Team WRT will undertake its first works-supported race outing with the BMW M4 GT3 at the Bathurst 12 Hour, the opening round of the Intercontinental GT Challenge, in February 2023. This is followed by the GT World Challenge Europe which begins in April 2023. The two cars will be occupied by top-class drivers, including nine-time motorcycle world champion Valentino Rossi (ITA), who will share the #46 BMW M4 GT3 with BMW M works drivers Maxime Martin (BEL) and Augusto Farfus (BRA). Challenging for top results in the #32 car will be the two new BMW M works drivers Dries Vanthoor and Charles Weerts (both BEL), together with DTM champion Sheldon van der Linde (RSA).
“It is fantastic to return to this legendary motorsport venue with BMW M Motorsport for the first time since 2020, and to see the BMW M4 GT3 in action for the first time at the Mount Panorama Circuit at Bathurst,” said Andreas Roos, Head of BMW M Motorsport. “There is something magical about the event, and we hope to be able to convey that magic on the track. We feel the prospects of a strong debut from the BMW M4 GT3 and BMW M Team WRT are very good. The combination of a strong team and equally strong drivers means we can approach the 12 hours of racing with confidence and hope for good results. I am particularly pleased, on the driver side, to see some new faces in our cockpits, coupled with the proven class of Augusto Farfus and Sheldon van der Linde. The race in Bathurst forms the start of an intensive and, hopefully, successful season with BMW M Team WRT, which continues with the Kyalami 9 Hour in February and then in the GT World Challenge Europe.”
“I am delighted to have such strong driver line-ups for our programmes in the GT World Challenge Europe and the Intercontinental GT Challenge. Thank you to BMW M Motorsport for this fantastic opportunity,” said WRT team principal and CEO Vincent Vosse. “I have been trying for a long time to work together with Maxime Martin in my team. It is awesome that this is now possible. I would also like to welcome Sheldon van der Linde back to the team having raced together a few years ago. He knows Dries Vanthoor and Charles Weerts well and I am sure they will form a strong team. Having Augusto Farfus, with all his know-how and experience, and Maxime alongside Valentino Rossi is also a fantastic combination. I can hardly wait for the 2023 season and to fight to bring trophies to Munich.”
Vanthoor and Weerts will contest all the sprint races in the GT World Challenge Europe as a duo, and will be supported by van der Linde in the endurance races. “I am really pleased to continue my successful partnership with Charles in the GT World Challenge Europe. We have been very successful in the past three years, winning the title in the Sprint Cup,” said Vanthoor. “The opposition will be even tougher in all the races, but I am confident that we will also be successful with the BMW M4 GT3, together with WRT and BMW M Motorsport. The front-engine car will be a change and a challenge for me, but my impressions from the initial tests have been very positive. The BMW M4 GT3 has great potential.” Weerts said: “Our goal for the Sprint Cup is obviously to challenge for our fourth title in a row, even if I still need to adapt to the BMW M4 GT3 a little better. It is also fantastic to get to know new circuits and to race at Bathurst for the first time in my career.”
Maxime Martin will contest the GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup together with Valentino Rossi. Providing valuable support as the third driver in the Endurance Cup and in Bathurst will be Augusto Farfus. “I am looking forward to the new challenge on my return to BMW M Motorsport,” said Martin. “Working with BMW M Team WRT and Valentino Rossi will definitely be a fantastic experience. I am also delighted to share a car with my friend Augusto Farfus again, and hopefully to pick up some wins.” Rossi said: “I’m very happy to continue my collaboration with the WRT team in 2023. This will be an important season as we will have a new car. The tests with the BMW M4 GT3 have been very good so far. I can’t wait to go racing with it.”
BMW PRESS
Month in review.
Dear members,
A late newsletter this month, so that we can take the opportunity to wish you all a wonderful and safe Christmas and New Year break. We know that this time of year is not always great for everyone, so we do hope that whatever it is you get up to, you are able to make the most of it, enjoy it, and take a well deserved break (if you can). We can't wait to catch up with you all in 2023.
Before we finish up for the year, let's take a look back at November. Many of our members started the month in Tasmania on our first bi-annual tour of Tasmania. With nearly 30 members in attendance, we had a great time touring around Tassie.
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On 6 November we were invited to display our cars at the Sandown Historics. It's always a great opportunity to see some great cars both on and off the track.
11 November saw is at the German Tivoli Club for our first All German Fest – Oktoberfest car display. Despite the thunderstorms keeping many away, we still had quite a few members attend, with Jo Mawson also winning best dressed in the Oktoberfest competition!
25-27 November was our first Challenge Bathurst, where we had 18 cars entered. It was really great to have a such a large mix of BMWs out on the track from M2s to E28s to E30s - we really had it all. It was also nice to see members from some of the other BMW Clubs around Australia, who we don't often get to see unless we are at the Nationals.
25 November was also our first back to Munich hook up meeting for a few months. We do really enjoy these events to find out first hand what's happening at BMW in Munich. If you haven't yet attended one, there are quite a few in our calendar for 2023 already that you can register for.
Our last event for November was the Geelong area mid-week drive. We had a great turn out and it was really nice to catch up with our members after at dinner. Thank you to Peter Williams for taking over the lead of this drive in Lawrence’s absence.
MEMBERSHIP UPDATE
Welcome to our new members Kai Li, Zixuan Luo, Xuli Gu, Tony Vallone, Michael Skomina, Terence Crook, Jhdara Jones, Svetlana Yarosh, Kerry Kornhauser, Corry O'Shannassy and Nic Mulhall. We look forward to seeing you at an event soon!
Don't forget to catch up with this month's update from our President, Graeme Bell here .
The month ahead.
We have one final event for December:
Friday, 16 December BCCM live from Munich Our last event for the year - a catch up with BMW Munich for a wrap up of 2022.
Looking ahead to January and beyond, there are some events that you should register for as soon as possible, to avoid missing out:
15 January 20232023 Traction Tyres/Yokohama Drivers Championship | Round 1The first round of our 2023 championship will kick off at Phillip Island with AROCA. Ensure you register as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. 26 January 2023 Australia Day Drive We'll start at lunch time at Hogans Hotel bistro and then head off on a scenic drive via Malmsbury, finishing at Panton Hill Hotel for dinner. 2 - 6 February 2023 Bathurst 12 Hour Our annual trip to the Bathurst 12 Hour - a weekend of some of the best motor racing you will see in Australia. 15 - 22 March 2023 BMW Clubs Australia Nationals - Gold Coast A perfect opportunity to come together with BMW Club members from around the country. 29 March - 30 April 2023 Australian F1 Grand Prix Display Please note that expressions of interest are now open and close on 31 December 2022. If you wish to display your car, you must complete an expression of interest so that you can be considered. All successful members will be notified as soon as possible after the cut off date.
Be sure to keep an eye on our calendar to stay up to date with our events. If you're attending a social drive or weekend away, we recommend checking out our event tips to help you get the best out of the event.
EVENT PHOTOS
If you attend any of our events and take high resolution photos that you would like to share with other members and for use on our website and in our newsletter and magazine, please send a link to your photos to photos@bmwdcm.com.au so we can add them to our photo gallery.
News & Blog.
Our blog page on the website is constantly being updated with not just club news, but everything BMW from all around the world! We welcome you to submit any articles of your own.
Club blog.
Trip to Tassie
Fun with Flags!
BMW around the globe.
Motorsport Australia.
AOMC/Greenfleet Carbon Offset Scheme
BMW enthusiasts can now balance their love of their vehicles with helping to look after the planet for as little as $18 per year. BMWDCM is proud to have assisted the AOMC to develop a new partnership with Greenfleet, a leading not-for-profit environmental organisation that protects the climate by restoring native forests.
You can read more about the initiative and how you can get involved here.
Classifieds.
Have you seen our classifieds page?
Want to sell something? Looking for a specific item? Email us today to list your car/parts/anything BMW related!
idrive magazine.
Everyone has their own BMW story - we'd love to share yours.
Email us to feature in our very own idrive magazine.
Club partners.
Members are welcome to submit their business to be shared on the Club Partners page on our website and idrive magazine. We believe in supporting those who support us. If you would like your business listed email us with your details.
As always - thanks for reading, we look forward to seeing you at an event soon!
President | Graeme Bell 0407 186 296 Vice President | Jo Mawson 0412 661 900 Secretary | Lawrence Glynn 0414 563 290 Treasurer | Shaaron Glynn
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The squad of works drivers at BMW M Motorsport for the 2023 season includes more prominent newcomers. Belgians Dries Vanthoor and Charles Weerts receive works driver contracts and join the BMW M Motorsport family. They will compete with BMW M Team WRT in the coming season, among other outings. The initial race programmes for the BMW M Motorsport teams and works drivers have also been confirmed. They include appearances in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship with the new BMW M Hybrid V8, as well as starts with the BMW M4 GT3 in GT World Challenge Europe, the Intercontinental GT Challenge and the Nürburgring 24 Hours (GER). More race programmes – including the DTM that is undergoing a major transformation at the moment – are being planned and will be announced at a later date.
“After celebrating 50 years of BMW M and looking back on the glorious history of BMW M and BMW M Motorsport in 2022, we have an exciting season ahead of us in 2023 on the road to the future of motor racing,” said Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH. “Taking centre stage is the BMW M Hybrid V8, which will be the first hybrid race car from BMW M Motorsport to appear in the IMSA series. The car is the symbol of the transformation of BMW M towards electrification, meaning it also plays a crucial role beyond motorsport. I am looking forward to the races with BMW M Team RLL and the parallel test work being undertaken by BMW M Team WRT, which will start with the BMW M Hybrid V8 in the FIA World Endurance Championship from 2024. I will also have my fingers crossed for all the teams and drivers doing battle for victories and titles in 2023 with the BMW M4 GT3, the new BMW M4 GT4 and the BMW M2 CS Racing.”
Andreas Roos, Head of BMW M Motorsport, said: “After a successful 2022, including title wins in the DTM, we are shifting up another gear next year. We have improved what was already a very strong squad of works drivers with René Rast, Maxime Martin, Dries Vanthoor and Charles Weerts. On the team side, we are continuing our collaborations, which have grown over many years, including with BMW M Team RLL, BMW M Team RMG and ROWE Racing. Of course, we also plan to continue with our DTM champion team Schubert Motorsport, although we weren’t able to fix anything yet due to the current DTM situation. We also welcome BMW M Team WRT as a new BMW M Motorsport team. We are facing some exciting sporting challenges in 2023 and the years to come, for which we need the best teams and drivers. After all, the goal is to add to the success story of the BMW brand in motor racing.”
Vanthoor and Weerts are the latest members of the BMW M Motorsport family. 24-year-old Vanthoor can already look back on some impressive successes. He has won the Nürburgring 24 Hours twice (2019, 2022), was Sprint Cup Champion on three occasions in GT World Challenge Europe (2020, 2021, 2022) and was crowned overall champion in GT World Challenge Europe in 2021. Vanthoor has also tasted victory at the 24h Dubai (UAE), the 12h Bathurst (AUS) and took class victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans (FRA).
Weerts is 21 years old and has enjoyed success alongside Vanthoor in the past. This includes winning the title in the GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup in 2020, 2021 and 2022, as well as the overall title in the 2021 GT World Challenge Europe.
The BMW M Motorsport squad for the 2023 season now comprises 20 works drivers, including newcomers René Rast (GER) and Maxime Martin (BEL), who were announced a while ago. Other drivers without a works driver contract will also start for BMW M Motorsport in races and tests in BMW M race cars.
A new era dawns in 2023 when the new BMW M Hybrid V8 contests its debut season in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in North America. BMW M Team RLL will field two new hybrid prototypes in the highest class - GTP. They will be driven by Connor De Phillippi (USA), Nick Yelloly (GBR), Philipp Eng (AUT) and Augusto Farfus (BRA). Sheldon van der Linde (RSA) and Marco Wittmann (GER) will bolster the IMSA squad in the BMW M Hybrid V8 at the endurance races at Daytona and Sebring (both USA). Colton Herta (USA) will also be involved at the season-opener, the 24 Hours of Daytona in January.
BMW M Team WRT will run a double programme with the BMW M4 GT3 in 2023, both in GT World Challenge Europe and at races in the Intercontinental GT Challenge. The works programme for BMW M Team WRT begins with the 12h Bathurst on the first weekend of February. The exact driver line-ups for the team’s BMW M4 GT3 will be announced at a later date. Before travelling to Australia, the team will use the 24 Hours of Dubai in January to gain experience with the BMW M4 GT3 under race conditions, as part of a customer outing organised by the team itself. At the same time, BMW M Team WRT will also be preparing for the 2024 season, in which it will appear in the FIA World Endurance Championship with the BMW M Hybrid V8.
The 24-hour race on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife is one of the highlights of the race calendar every year. It has already been confirmed that 2020 winners ROWE Racing will again start the classic in the Eifel mountains with two BMW M4 GT3s for BMW M Motorsport. The team is also planned to continue to race in the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup with two works-supported BMW M4 GT3s next season.
Parallel to the many race outings, BMW M Motorsport will also continue its development work with various BMW M race cars in 2023. BMW M Team RMG remains largely responsible for the test and development work. In addition to that, the Andernach-based team will again compete in its home race with the BMW M4 GT3, the Nürburgring 24 Hours.
BMW M works driver Bruno Spengler (CAN) will be behind the wheel of the BMW M4 GT3 in 2023 and contest multiple international races next season. He will also have a bigger role within the BMW family in other areas. Spengler will be BMW SIM Racing Ambassador and BMW Group Classic Ambassador from 2023.
Event date: 25 - 27 November 2022
An early start on Thursday for our convoy up to Bathurst for the Club’s first Challenge Bathurst.
Perfect day for driving, very easy drive until you turn off the Hume, then it’s spot the pot hole and try not to fall in. Great to see the countryside drying up a bit and they’re out working on the roads, but still lots to fix.
Fantastic travelling with a group, makes the journey so much easier and more fun.
The Mountain is looking beautiful now it’s dried out since the Supercars weekend. Very different without the throngs of people there though, but just the same with the sound of race cars zooming around the hill.
This will be a great experience for the club members, to be able to drive this track is something that anyone that loves driving aspires to. A real bucket list event. Can’t wait till the end of the first session to see the smiles on their faces and hear the stories.
I remember the first time I raced here, it never leaves you, as a driver it is one of things you just have to do.
Friday at The Mountain.
Was great getting up yesterday, means we can get set up and have the day today to look around, get the drivers and crews checked in, cars Scrutineered, then move into the pit lane garages once the ‘Sprint’ competitors had moved out.
A pretty relaxing day and great just taking it easy for a change whilst getting everything ready for the weekend’s fun.
By the end of the day all our lot have turned up, unloaded and have their cars tucked in the garages ready to go bright and early tomorrow.
The day starts off with a briefing then a familiarization session.
You can hear the excitement in some of their voices, tomorrow will be the realization of some people’s dreams, driving around the best track in Australia and one of the best in the World.
Got to say thank you to the organizers for inviting DCM to bring a bunch of people to the Mountain and of course all the officials that make this happen. For the average person that would otherwise not have the opportunity to drive around this amazing place, this is the best way to do it!
It is a great event and looking forward to the next two days of fun.
Saturday at The Mountain.
There are some things in life you just cannot explain to someone until they have actually done it. There aren’t words to express some experiences until you’ve done it yourself.
Driving Bathurst at speed is one of those things.
The looks on the faces and the excitement and exhilaration in their voices after their first familiarization laps just explains it all. Then that only intensifies after more sessions and time on track.
Bathurst isn’t just another racetrack, it is the pinnacle of Motorsport in this country for a driver, and quite possibly one of the best tracks in the world.
It is so hard to explain what it’s like to drive here, and as much as you try and as many in car videos or sim sessions you do, nothing compares to driving here. The only thing that tops doing an event like Challenge Bathurst is actually racing here!
Today was just perfect, the weather, the track, the organization, the company… where else in the world would you want to be?
We have an awesome bunch up here with us, some great fun on the track and then some great fun sitting around telling stories of the day and other days here or elsewhere.
If you want to join us next year, when entries come out you need to be quick! Something not to be missed.
As always, thanks to the teams of officials and organizers for giving of their time to run events like this for those that love to drive. We can’t enjoy what we do without an army of volunteers, so, like some of us that came all this way to help others enjoy their fun, you too can join in even if you’re not driving. It is still almost as much fun.
One day to go then the long drive home on Monday.
Sunday night and the end of a fantastic weekend of doing what we all love, driving, at the pinnacle of Australian Motorsport.
Everything was perfect, the weather was amazing, the track awesome, the event itself went off perfectly.
Well done to the organisers and officials and thank you to Greg Evans for inviting DCM to run a group of BMW Club Members from all over Australia to experience the best track in the country. Hoping we will be invited back to run a bigger event next year.
Most have packed up and headed off in different directions for home, our little convoy will head off in the morning back to Melbourne.
It’s been an awesome weekend and if you get the opportunity to come and do this event, take it!
Everyone safely home from an amazing weekend up at Bathurst.
Safe to say everyone had a ball, such a great event and such a great bunch to do it with.
So many pics and videos to go through over the next few days.
Just a few more tonight though.
Thank you for coming, thank you to the officials and organisers that make it all possible.
Graeme Bell | Member #1 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
We started November in the middle of an event and boy what a great event that was, with nearly 30 members travelling around Tasmania together. This will be a bi-yearly event, so watch out for the next one in 2024.
On 6 November we had a great display of cars at Sandown Historics. We were lucky with the weather and even luckier with the position we were in. There were plenty of great cars to see both on and off the track.
11 November saw us at the German Tivoli Club for our first All German Fest – Oktoberfest car display. We had a great turn out despite the threat of thunderstorms, which did keep a few away, but those who did attend had a great time chatting to all the other car owners and then coming upstairs in the Tivoli club to join us all for some German food and catch up with some new members too. it was fantastic to see so many members from our friends from Mercedes, Porsche and VW clubs. Jo won best dressed in the Oktoberfest competition, and I would like to thank everyone who took the time and effort to dress up, it makes these nights a bit more fun.
25-27 November was our first Challenge Bathurst, where we had 18 cars entered. This was our total allocation for the event. We could definitely have filled more spots as this event sold out within the first few days! Wow what a fantastic event and it was great to have a great mix of BMWs out on the track from one member’s beautiful M2 which had some pretty cool looking decals on it to an SA member’s E28 complete with bowls hat on the parcel shelf. We had a great mix in between and a really friendly mix of competitors. These events are wonderful as members who normally don’t get to catch up until the nationals can come together and really bond over the things they love, BMW and speed, on the best track in the country. We were really lucky to have amazing weather and also some great volunteers who came up to help the team. Thank you to Sam and Angelo who are just really great people and always help when they are able to.
25 November was also our first back to Munich hook up meeting for a few months. As with previous hook ups, we had a great turn out of members logging in and it was full of great information from Munich. We have all the next hook ups on our calendar already so feel free to register so not to miss out.
A new piece of news is the new Carbon Offset Program, developed with the AOMC that is now available to join. This is a great incentive to help offset the emissions from older cars and very cheap to be a part of to help the world move toward a carbon neutral future.
December is full of events starting with Round 8 of our Traction Tyres/Yokohama Drivers Championship at Phillip Island. This event is always so popular, and I know it sold out within the first couple of days of entries opening. Spectators are welcome to come and support those who were lucky to get in.
On 6 December we will all be meeting for a sausage sizzle at Mornington BMW then heading down to Sorento to watch to sun set after a drive along the beautiful coastline. Don’t miss out on our last Twilight drive for 2022.
Then on 11 December is our Christmas Picnic and Show and Shine at Cruden Farm. All are welcome make this your family picnic and bring the kids as Santa will be there for photos and possibly lolly bags. There is gold coin donation for egg and bacon rolls in the morning and online link to yummy grazing boxes which can be ordered when you register. We encourage you to bring out your “other cars’ too as there is a section in the Show and Shine for non-BMWs.
Our last event for 2022 will be another hook up with Munich featuring a review of all that happened in 2022.
Looking ahead to 2023, the motorsport calendar for is nearly complete so keep an eye open for that, we have only just received confirmation on the Supercars rounds so now we can set about confirming all our events.
With regards to club plate renewals, can I please stress that it is up to the member to make sure you have your registration paperwork completed on time and back to VicRoads. We have had quite a few emails of late from members who have forgotten to complete their paperwork or let their renewals laps and then get cranky with us as they can’t get them signed when they want to. VicRoads send the renewals out around six weeks before they are due, so you have plenty of time to get them signed. Please remember all your committee are volunteers and some work full time and try to run a business. When you have your paperwork signed it is your responsibility to ensure it is completed, sometimes we may miss a spot due to life distractions. We apologise if this has happened but again remember we are volunteers and don’t get paid and some work many unpaid hours to make sure this club is running in tip top condition.
As I have said in a few of my previous reports, if you have a club registered car, make sure your registration is paid, go out and inspect your cars now and check the dates. Jo has managed to help a few members who have had let their registrations laps but her friendship with VicRoads can only go so far. The fines for driving an unregistered club permit scheme vehicle is now over $900.
We also offer the online system, which is working quite well and again, it is up to the individual to ensure the uploaded paperwork is correct before sending it into VicRoads.
As you would have seen in the save the dates above, the BMW Clubs Australia Nationals will be held next year on the Gold Cast. We encourage you all to follow the link on the event and check it out. The Nationals is a fantastic event where we catch up with all our fellow club members from around Australia and this one will be another fantastic event. Join us up there in 2023 for another fantastic Nationals.
Our new membership incentive is doing well, and we have had a lot of new members sign up and we look forward to drawing our first winners in January 2023. This is not just for new members but for all renewals in each quarter. How it works is when you renew, your name goes into the running for some fantastic prizes. When a new member signs up their name goes into the running for the prizes. But best of all if you refer a member your name goes into the running as well, as long as the new member list you as the referring member. As they say on TV “you got to be in it to win it”.
Jo has also been working tirelessly re-signing sponsors for 2023. If you own a business and would be interested in being part of our clubs sponsorship, please drop Jo an email on v.president@bmwdcm.com.au and she will be happy to forward you the relevant information and even drop out to have a chat.
Jess has been out over the past weekend doing a photo shoot for the next idrive and it sounds like it will be a great cover, again. If you have not submitted any articles yet which you think might be worth reading in the next edition please forward them, with hi resolution photos to editor@bmwdcm.com.au.
Well, this is all from me, I am hoping that December will give us some warmer weather as we have some great events coming up to enjoy in the sun. As always, thank you for being a part of our DCM family and I look forward to seeing you at an event somewhere soon.
Graeme Bell | President 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
Just wanted to send Jo and Graeme and the BMWDCM a special thanks for your incredible support and efforts in asking members of the BMW Drivers Club Melbourne for trackside support at the recent Island Magic event at Phillip Island, particularly at such short notice.
Please pass on our heartfelt thanks and appreciation on behalf of myself and the VFT to Adrian White, Chris Allen, Marlin & Simon Lee for their amazing efforts. The guys fitted in with the team very well and were excellent contributors to the weekend.
It was a pleasure to work with them all and without their support and enthusiasm it would have been difficult to provide the service the VFT is renowned for.
Again, thank you to the BMWDCM for your assistance, we take this opportunity to wish you and the entire BMWDCM family a very Merry Christmas and safe and prosperous New Year.
Mark Thompson | Chief Flag Marshal Victorian Flagmarshalling Team Inc
Event date: 16-17 July 2022
I’d only driven the Broadford track once before, so I was keen to deploy those skills & improve my lap times.
We also gifted a birthday track day to Jenny’s eldest kidult (Jay) & partner (Cozzie). That demanded more cabin space so Jenny drove my E93 and I in the Toyota 86 (all marques welcome). The 86’s race suspension made it a harsh ride, but it was an uneventful drive up.
We met the DCM crew for Friday dinner at the Broadford Hotel, a 10min walk from the Sugarloaf Motel; so DUI was eliminated.
Day one was a “come & try day” and was overcast and cool, with rain forecast so it was going to get interesting, especially for the newbies.
I was feeling apprehensive about teaching the kidults in my 86, so I expected to have someone else do the coaching. At the briefing we got the details of the rules and running order and as it turned out the newbie numbers were up & coaches were stretched, so I just went with it & did the coaching (good decision).
I conducted the orienteering laps, explaining “cut here, stay wide there, adverse camber over the top , watch the outside (it falls away)”. Then I got a bit more focussed on a real session (just to warm up the car ;) ).
The coaching laps kicked off and my appreciation rapidly turned to solid enjoyment of the coaching role (not rolls, Phew).
My day then got busier, as I also coached a newbie from the AROC, who had me coaching in a CX3 Auto, not my 1st or 100th choice of track car, but it was great to hear from Yit Yuan (Eatyen) that she was there to learn about how her car performed at higher speeds on straight & corner (she certainly got that).
The students listened & tried. Mistakes were made improvements were rapid.
We reviewed & planned on the whiteboard back in the office, discussing lane position, braking strategy and turn-in locations.
My nerve held across the 3 students and I only had to slap the dash “BRAKE!!” A couple of times. I got back in the zone via my own fun behind the wheel too, which added up to a very busy day.
More DCM fun at the hotel for dinner, with even a birthday cake (thank you so much for that surprise!).
Day 2 (Sunday) was a bit more serious, both in driver experience and weather (lots of rain). Whilst lined up for my 2nd session I thought I spotted an E30 in the group, which wasn’t in the first session. I then found it chasing me down the home straight, it could only be our President (Graeme Bell). I pushed hard around turn 1/2 in the rain and backed off when I felt the rear end go light. I had nervous fun for the rest of the session, then Graeme came for a chat in the paddock. “Play with the oversteer in the wet, push to the light-feeling then feather the gas to maintain that slide, enjoy it [rather than avoid it]”. I took that advice to my next sessions & I had so much fun! Yes, I lost the rear end on that adverse camber section, but I kept it on the black stuff.
What a weekend! Great fun with the DCM crew, some teaching skills developed, some awesome lessons & track time for me.
Thanks Jo and committee for giving us the chance to safely “give it the berries”.
Martin Taylor | Member #598 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Event date: 11 November 2022
I must admit as this was the first time I had attended an Oktoberfest event, I wasn't sure what to expect. But it turned out to be a lovely and relaxed evening for the young (and young at heart!) to enjoy each other's company, swap stories, and enjoy a hearty meal of exquisite German food (and of course, sample some superb German beer, cider, or wine).
Although the weather was on the cool side and threatened to rain, the car park was filled with a fine variety of German cars to admire - including a Bell Motorsport racing BMW, Porsches, Mercedes, and of course several classic and modern BMWs.
Thanks to all Members who organised or supported and participated to make this an enjoyable evening.
Richard Van Essen | Member #946 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Every time I’ve thought about writing this article, I wanted to use that title – “Fun with flags” … and for the geeks out there, yes – it always makes me think of Big Bang Theory! Although that is where the similarity ends.
I decided to try flagging as my partner, Martin, is always going to track events and I’m either tagging along or don’t go because he’s not on the track and just chin-wagging. I’ve been really enjoying my time at the track and add to that super enjoying the BMWDCM community, so I wanted to be more a part of it – but I didn’t want to drive.
There is always a need for volunteers, so I signed up. I didn’t expect to be flagging. I thought I’d get an admin / numbers task, given my accounting background. The first volunteer opportunity asked of me was flagging – I was thinking ‘I have no clue!’, but Jo assured me I would be trained, and she was more than true to her word.
I was buddied with Andy and lucky enough to be at start / finish for the morning, which gave me great exposure to that flagging element. Andy was great in training me in all the flagging requirements, even those that weren’t needed on the day. With the combination of my inquisitive nature and Andy’s open and easy-going style, we rehearsed all the flagging requirements, embedding a great foundation for my understanding and flagging future!
It was a cold day, and in the afternoon, I became even colder – to a point I would usually not tolerate, but the activity was so enjoyable that it didn’t’ bother me and I simply moved to keep warm and continue enjoying the day. As I crewed my post, I recognised the cars of those I knew from BMWDCM – I was so close to the action! Each time they came around I could see right away how they were performing compared to the other times.
This was extra cool as not only was I recognising our members, but I was looking out for my partner, my son and his fiancé’! The timing of our trip to Broadford for the ‘come and try’ day coincided with my eldest’s b’day and with our timing of selling the car that Martin takes on the track.
It’s important to deviate from the track-side to something else wonderful about this trip and to acknowledge a very special lady, Lucy, who bought a b’day cake for my son, which was brought out at the evening dinner. She had the whole BMW crew helping us celebrate! Thank you, Lucy!
Ok, this is also where I need to fess-up that we took a Toyota 86 to Broadford, not a BMW (but don’t’ be disappointed, it was a means to an end, and it’s now gone with an E30 in its place).
I recognised the “family” race car each time it came around the track, but the driver was another matter! I thought the kids were getting really brave, only to find out later the lad that yelled and waved out the window was just Martin, my partner.
I loved my day of flagging. I spent the afternoon at a different spot with a different buddy and looked forward to doing it again.
This happened at Philip Island. And this is when I truly realised, I LOVE FLAGGING!
The call went out for flaggers for Philip Island and aligned with a break from my workload, so I went for it! I encouraged my partner (usually a driver/ pit-crew) to give it a go also, which he did (and loved, but he can tell that story). I was given my own post – just me. I was a little nervous, but confident and excited. I also took the time to get a lift out with the flag deliverer – helping drop off the flags whilst testing out my memory on the requirements and gaining the local insights.
This time I had come more prepared – suncream and hot packs! I was on my own, but I remembered my training and I went into action! It was extra challenging and therefore extra fun adapting to the different events. The two Porsche in one event meant the blue flag was a constant – as they were lapping everyone! In other rounds the vehicles rarely needed a blue flag – but other course action was prevalent with a few gravel detours, and we even had a lack of adhesion opportunity. That was a good refresher that now all flags are waved – some need to be held.
A huge thank you to Andy for the great training and to Jo for setting me up for success! I’m very much looking forward to flagging again and I recommend you give it a go - at least once!
Jenny Rose | Member #887 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Event date: 26 October - 1 November 2022
Most of our group of 26 departed on the Spirit of Tasmania on Tuesday evening at 6.45pm for the overnight sailing to Devenport. We all met for a 6pm buffet dinner, before retiring for what turned out to be a very smooth sailing - we all arrived in good spirits on Wednesday morning, before heading off to McDonalds to join up and have brekkie.
8.30 a.m. saw us depart for Cradle Mountain on quite narrow and winding roads - lots of roadworks to contend with in this area. Beautiful backdrop of craggy mountains, and the sun obliged by emerging just as we arrived at 10.00 a.m.
We all split up and went our own way for the morning - some for walks around Dove Lake, after exiting the shuttle bus, some just enjoying the scenery with a coffee in the lodge. the Enchanted walk was just like stepping back in time and being in a wonderland. Lunch was at the Peppers Tavern with a large log fire to send us to sleep! The lodge has resident wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies and quite a large wombat.
Casey from Launceston BMW joined us for lunch, and subsequently lead the group out from Cradle Mountain for the drive back to Devonport.
Unfortunately on this drive, which was in the rain, Adrian White's 525i had a top hose failure. Lawrence was "Tail end Charlie" and noticed steam coming from under the car. Once we were aware of this, the group all pulled over whilst Graeme made a temporary repair to the hose.
Adrian was then able to travel slowly back to Launceston to try and arrange a replacement part, followed by Lawrence and Shaaron to make sure he arrived safely. The rest of the group continued back to Devonport - we separated into two groups in the town of Wilmot - some chose to drive the direct route to Devenport, others to go the "long" way round on some Targa sections.
This reinforced to all of us some of the reasons we belong and travel in a group - there is always someone there to help, and in this instance the the Glynns and Graeme and Jo came to the rescue.
We arrived back in Devenport at 5.00pm and 6.00 pm respectively, just in time to have another meal!
I think most had an early night - the weather had turned quite drizzly and cold by this stage.
Our second day in Tasmania, Thursday, started with an 8.00 a.m breakfast at the motel, ready for a 9.30 am departure. Again, light drizzle and quite cold, the drive was again along some winding sections with lots of roadworks enroute.
We had a 10.30 am stop at Sheffield for morning tea, which allowed time to view numerous murals in the town.
Off again at 11.15am for Longford, again interrupted by roadworks and rain most of the way, with the occasional burst of welcome sunshine.
Lunch was organised by Jo at the historic Longford Pub, which gave us all a chance to view the
memorabilia. We were joined by Simeon's family for lunch, (they had flown over earlier that day to join up with the rest of the group). It was lovely to also celebrate Elsie's 13th birthday, with a small cake which Jo managed to purchase from a local bakery. Weather by now had really taken a turn for the worse and it rained heavily as we left for the drive to Hobart for a 5.00 pm arrival. The trip was again interrupted by lots of roadworks.
Once we arrived at the Wrest Point Casino, we all went in different directions and organised our own activities. By now, Adrian was still in Launceston on his own trying to obtain the part he needed for his car - as it was going to take too long, Graeme and Jo were able to source and collect the part and coolant in Hobart for him. He was able to drive very slowly to Hobart, (with a little help from the RACT), and arrived late that night. Fortunately Graeme saved the day again and the car was quickly repaired and back on the road in the morning, and he was able to join a group doing a great drive down to the Huon Valley.
Some went to Bruny Island, others to Port Arthur, Salamanca Markets, Mt. Wellington, and fortunately the weather had started to improve, so by Saturday the sun was shining for us. Jennifer Rose had been on the trip, and had taken over as lead "navigator" to give Jo a break on the drive to Hobart - unfortunately she had to leave us on Saturday morning due to work commitments.
Thank you for a job well done. So Martin was now traveling solo.
Monday, we headed off to St. Helens, via Richmond to view the historic bridge - such a popular place that we couldn't find a parking space so kept moving on to Swansea for lunch. By this time, whilst the rain had gone, it was so windy it was almost impossible to stand up straight! Numerous fallen trees and foliage on the roads, lots of road crews cleaning up the mess - (we called into Freycinet, for a quick look) - all added to the time it took to arrive at St. Helens for our final night.
Lovely motel (Anchor Wheel), where the owner Attilla provided exceptional pre-dinner hospitality, even driving some to the local hotel for dinner. If ever in St. Helens, you must stay there.
Tuesday (Melb Cup Day) was another fine day, with an 8.30 am start. After a winding road, lots of road debris, we called into the Pyengana Dairy for a quick stop, and to purchase some lovely cheeses to bring back home. We then travelled on to Legerwood to view the stunning outdoor wood carvings a Anzac memorial.
Continued on the main road to Launceston, where we stopped at the Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm for a pre-arranged lunch - another fabulous venue organized by Jo. We farewelled Simeon's family, as they were flying back to Melbourne in the evening; he was traveling back on the Spirit with the rest of the group.
Last stop on the way to the ferry was the Anvers Chocolate Factory- we all had good intentions but managed to sample their delicious fare, and most of us also purchased more chocolate than we needed.
From Anvers, it was just a 15 minute drive to the ferry terminal - the weather had stayed fine until then - once we were all on board it started to rain quite heavily. A buffet dinner again on board at 6.00pm the ferry crossing again was reasonably good - a little rough through the heads but not enough for anyone to be unwell, and we arrived on time in Geelong at 6.00 am.
Eight of the group managed to make the 8.00 a.m. Queenscliff to Sorrento ferry crossing, to enjoy our final "Tassie trip" coffee together.
Can't finish this without mentioning the two non-BMW drivers.
Both Rob and Mary in their Audi, and Terry and Anne in their Jeep, copped quite a bit of flak- Terry in particular for some reason - they were all such good sports about it - particularly Terry and his quickly re-badged "BMW Jeep"! I don't know how you sleep at night Martin.
Last of all, we know that all the participants would like to send their thanks to the organisers of the trip - Peter Williams for all the pre tour work, although not able to join in, Graeme and Jo, Lawrence and Shaaron - no doubt there are others in the background we haven't mentioned; thank you to all of you for arranging such a fabulous holiday for us.
Jeff and Jill Palmer | Member #949 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
See the next issue of idrive for more member articles and photographs from our holiday!
THANK YOU BMWDCM
We both would like to say to you all (at least the Tas trippers) a heartfelt thank you for the way you accepted us into your group for what turned out to be the time of our lives in the apple isle.
Even though we were from Mars (Jeep drivers mostly are), we both commented on the fact that there were no disapproving glares upon meeting you for the first time.
Thank you for the efforts of Lawrence who heard of our misery of not being able to get a booking for Tasmania before Terry’s dance with the surgeon on the 7 November …his impassioned plea to Jo (mother duck) worked!
Jo, it was great to pull up beside you in the waiting line to board the ferry and to get your BMW pack (you all know what happened to the BMW sticker) thank you also for the amazing way you organised the trip especially for us virgins.
Special mention for Martin who kept us in stiches with his repartee (Jeep Jesting), thanks mate you are one of a kind.
An extra special thank you to Graham Thomas along with Jeff and Jill Palmer who took time to assuage my obvious nervousness about my upcoming journey into the unknown…(not like me to blurt out personal matters, must have been the beer).
To John, thanks for the lessons on how to park.
To Adrian, your trip was crapped out on day two…bad luck, but you still spent time with us interlopers.
Rob and Mary, I tried lots of times to catch up with you to have a chat about your rocket, to no avail. But when we shared a meal with you both it was an enchanting evening, thank you Mary for spending time with us to say goodbye on the return ferry trip.
To Warren and Margaret thank you both for treating us both to your warmth and we got a kick out of hearing “at least the Jeep was something to follow through the traffic”.
To Simeon, Trent and anyone we may have omitted, you welcomed us into your group that you had all waited for, for two years, we appreciate it.
Until we meet again.
Terry and Anne Lane | Cave #6 Grand Canal MARS
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