The biggest names of the sport were recognised at the annual Australian Speedway Awards night last weekend.
After another massive summer of speedway, over 200 guests from the racing fraternity gathered at the Melbourne Showgrounds Victoria Pavilion on Saturday night.
Headlining the event were the induction of the newest members of the Australian Speedway Hall of Fame.
The inductees included some of the longest serving names to the sport both on and off the track.
Media veteran Dennis Newlyn was recognised for his many decades of coverage for print, digital and radio outlets, while photographer/merchandiser/US tour operator Bill Meyer was awarded posthumously.
There were also some highly calibered drivers celebrated with Speedcar driver Howard Revell, two-time Aussie Sprintcar champion Ron Krikke and six-time Australian GP Midget champion Wally Kermond also inducted into the hall of fame.
A number of other prestigious awards were presented with Jock Goodyer recognised for his prolific season winning the Australian Sprintcar title and seven races all up to be named as the Open Wheel Competitor of the Year.
But the prestigious Sportsperson of the Year gong went to Brock Hallett, who broke through for a famous last-lap Grand Annual Classic triumph in January.
Speedway Australia CEO Darren Tindal labelled the event a resounding success, with many travelling extensive distances to be present.
“One of our Hall of Famers’ sons flew in from Indianapolis to be here for his dad, and dozens of others have travelled from all over the nation to be present with their family and friends who were receiving awards which is a testament to just how much these awards mean,” he said.
“Our staff have worked extremely hard to lift the bar again this year and the feedback from attendees has been outstanding.
“But there was a common thread in the feedback, where a lot of people felt a sense of unity in the room which is a positive sign for the future as we continue to build this sport together.”
Full list of award winners on the night is below
Junior Competitor of the Year Aidan Rigby (QLD) – SSA Junior Sedans
Karting Competitor of the Year Liam Niblock (QLD) – SKAA
Modified Competitor of the Year Tim Reidy (VIC) – AMCA Nationals
Open Wheel Competitor of Year Jock Goodyer (TAS) – Sprintcars
Sedan Competitor of the Year Joel Berkley (QLD) – SSA Modified/Production Sedans
Sportsperson of the Year Brock Hallett (VIC) – Sprintcars
Innovation/Promotional Item of the Year Electronic Flag Board – Perth Motorplex (WA)
Photographer of the Year Nakita Pollock (NT)
Marshal/Volunteer of the Year Josh Macalpine (Esperance, WA)
Media Person/Group/Outlet of the Year Dean Neal – Night Thunder, (WA)
Most Improved Track of the Year Lismore Speedway (NSW)
Track of the Year Perth Motorplex (WA)
Outstanding Contribution to the Sport Tim Hodges (VIC)
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