AUTOMOTIVE LEGENDS AT AUTOPLEX

Castlemaine’s Autoplex is preparing to roll out the red carpet for some genuine Australian motoring royalty at its Automotive Legends celebration on Sunday, November 22.

The event will recognise three people who have made significant contributions to Australia’s automotive scene — including racing legend Norm Beechey and legendary drag racer Jim Walton. 

Known everywhere as “Stormin’ Norman,” Norm Beechey was one of the great characters of Australian touring car racing, winning the Australian Touring Car Championship in a Ford Mustang in 1965. He made history again in 1970 when his thundering Holden HT Monaro GTS 350 became the first Australian-built car to win the championship.

Jim Walton is one of the pioneers of Australian drag racing, progressing from a grey-motored FJ Holden in the 1960s to blown fuel altereds and some of the country’s wildest Funny Cars. His hugely successful career included four Nationals victories in Funny Car. At the same time, his determination became the stuff of legend after he returned to racing following a horrific 1982 crash at Calder Park that nearly cost him his left leg.

And the third Automotive Legend? Autoplex isn’t saying. Whoever joins Beechey and Walton will be revealed on the day, adding a little mystery to an already impressive line-up.

Automotive media personality Sandra Horne will host an intimate discussion with all three Legends from 1.30pm, giving enthusiasts the chance to hear some great stories straight from the people who lived them.

Running from noon until 4pm at Autoplex, 35 Etty Street, Castlemaine, the afternoon will also feature food trucks and a licensed bar. Tickets are $25 per person, numbers are limited, and profits will go toward opening the Autoplex museum. You can book at autoplex.au/automotive-legends/