Following an extended illness by long time Classic Outback Trial Clerk of Course Tom Snooks, it was announced today that Event Director Phil Bernadou will step up to fulfil the event’s senior role during the 7 day Special Stage Rally to be held around the Central West Region of New South Wales between 27 March and 2 April 2022.

“Tom’s shoes are rather large and it will be a team effort from all of our key officials to fill the voids – but the good news is that Tom will still be at the end of a zoom screen or a telephone if we get into unknown territory” said Phil Bernadou.

“We are fortunate to have a very experienced and competent team of Key Officials on hand for the Classic Outback Trial, including former Australian Rally Champion, David Officer and Alpine Rally Deputy Clerk of Course, Steve Hollowood, who will be managing on-ground key components of the Special Stage and Regularity events respectively. We are in good hands!”

The Classic Outback Trial will be held over seven days, starting in Parkes in New South Wales on Sunday, 27 March, 2022 before moving through Orange to end in Bathurst on Saturday, 2 April

It is with great sadness we advise that Kevin Shaw, Competitor Relations Officer for the 2008 Red Centre to Gold Coast Trial and all three Classic Outback Trials, passed away on 2 January. Aged 70 he had a short illness resulting from cancer.

A Tasmanian, Kevin was very involved in all forms of the sport throughout his adult life in that state, including being a member of the CAMS State Council for many years. On a national level he was a CAMS Director for 12 years.

Kevin was greatly respected for his honesty and integrity in any dealings he had with people, these being issues in which he placed the highest value. His wisdom, much sought after, and passion for the sport will be missed by many.

He was a gentle man, but firm when required to be so, and very few people ever heard him say a cross word, or raise his voice.

Over the past 20 years Kevin acted as Clerk of Course Tom Snooks’ right-hand and left-hand man in many events – Targa Tasmania, 1995 Mobil and 1998 Playstation Round Australia Trials, Australian Safaris and Grand Prix Rallies conducted under Octagon, Bega Valley Rally, the Classic Outback Trials and other events. Together, they established and conducted the headquarters for these events, which involved the administration and rally control, and his contribution ensured smoothly run activities.

Kevin also assisted numerous others in the conduct of their events.

Our thoughts are with Kevin’s family and friends at this difficult time.

Kevin will be missed.