else in the world! However, it was Mick’s ’34
coupe, RAWR, that blew me away. It adapted
ideas from hot rodding, pro touring, super cars
and aircraft. The colour, the style, the design, the
wheels; it’s probably my all-time favourite car – it
was anything but just another ’34. Jimmy Shine
and Pete Chapouris thought so too, picking it as
their choice at MotorEx and commenting it would
knock them out in the US.
What’s the key to scoring big points?
Attention to detail and innovation. All the good
builds get all the big stuff right. It’s always the
little things that robs it of those precious last
points. I’m always encouraging builders to take
chances, as innovation always scores big.
How do you recruit judges?
We’ve probably had a core group of about 25
people over the years, which is pretty small
when you consider the timespan. During this
time, we’ve asked about 50 people if they’d be
interested in joining the team. Like Chic did in the
beginning, we approach people who we think
would fit the criteria. I always like to bring on
young talent as they have a different perspective.
The late Laurie Starling was a great example, and
we recently gave Rachael Durbibge (SM, April
’16) a chance at Red CentreNATS – she has a
great eye for paint and all the skills to match. Not
everyone is cut out to be a judge. I’ve seen some
of the best builders and tradespeople try it and
quickly realise it’s not for them. You really have
to appreciate the system and the work that goes
into every decision.
What’s next?
I won’t be disappearing; I’ve put a great deal of
my life into shows, I still love cars, I still love the
sport and I still love shows. I’m very proud of
what I’ve achieved and really want it all to keep
evolving and growing. Drago Ostric is taking
over, he’s the Summernats 17 Grand Champion
and very experienced. The team respects him, so
things are in good hands. I’ll become a spectator- except at Red CentreNATS. I love this event,
it has a great vibe. People are there to have fun
with their cars, cruise on the street and display
for the public – if they win something it’s a bonus.
What will you miss the most?
All the incredible people I’ve worked with over
the years. The journey has been awesome, the
cars have been great, but many of the people
are better. I want to say a special thank you
to all the judges who have given their all.
Especially every member from the MotorEx and
Summernats team; it’s been a pleasure and a
privilege working with you. Thanks.
What’s the future of shows?
Don’t believe all the social media BS; there are
a lot of good builders out there and the show
scene is very healthy. Under OTP, Summernats is
now stronger than ever, and with OTP acquiring
MotorEx, the future is bright for these high-
energy, top-shelf events. With builders now
moving into CAD design, 3D printing and some
incredible machinery, only certain customers
will be able to afford the really super-high-end
builds. More affordable Street Elite builds is
where the action is. This is great, as the owners
are getting out and driving them. A lot of smaller
shows are being replaced with Cars ’n’ Coffee
and evening cruise-style events. Rock up, have
something to eat, chat with other car people,
then head off. You get to cruise your car, there’s
minimal cleaning involved and you don’t have
to hang around all weekend waiting for Sunday
night bump-out. Shows might be changing, but
they’re definitely not disappearing. s
DON’T BELIEVE ALL THE SOCIAL MEDIA BS; THERE ARE A LOT OF GOOD
BUILDERS OUT THERE AND THE SHOW SCENE IS VERY HEALTHY