David Bushby (Tasmania, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise also to address Senator Muir's motion on the economic, social and other benefits of motorsport in Australia.

Ever since I was a child I have been drawn to motorsport. I recall well the many Sunday mornings in early October each year watching 'the great race' as a child—with my most enduring memories being the epic battles between the big Ford Falcon coupes and the Holden L34 and A9X Toranas. And of course, the epic contests between Peter Brock and Allan Moffat and, later, Dick Johnson.

Senator Conroy interjecting—

I am not sure what Senator Conroy will think of this, but I admit that in those days I was firmly in the 'Holden' and 'Brockie' camp. Maybe this was demonstrated when, as a 20-year-old, I purchased a 1977 5.0 litre LX Torana SS hatchback, heavily modified for Group 3 racing but de-tuned for road use. I wish I still had it; it would now be a very valuable collector piece.

Over the course of my adult life I have since participated in a number of entry-level motorsport events—mainly hill climbs, track days and the like. I have even managed to compete occasionally since I joined the Senate—most recently in the inaugural Targa Hellyer Gorge event in north-west Tasmania earlier this year. My interest is shared by many Australians—large numbers of whom participate and even more who spectate.