This weekend will see Maryborough Speedway fire into life once again, with the Kurt Murdoch Memorial a big part of the program.
The annual event honours the legacy of Kurt, but this weekend marks the final laps as the family has made the decision to retire the event.
“Since 2012, this race has been more than just laps on a track — it’s been a tribute to my son Kurt and the passion he had for speedway. From the time he was 12, watching from the sidelines while I worked in the canteen for the Maryborough West Scout Group, Kurt was hooked. He began racing in 2008, and everything changed when he won the George Bezant Junior Encouragement Award. It lit a spark in him that never went out — until his life was tragically cut short in 2012.
Over the years, the drivers, friends, and racing community have kept his memory alive. Seeing so many of you return year after year to race in his honour has filled my heart in ways I can’t explain. You’ve carried Kurt with you on the track, and for that, I will always be grateful.
But the time has come to say goodbye. This Saturday night will be the final lap for the Kurt Murdoch Classic. While the race ends, the memories, the friendships, and the love remain.
Thank you — to every driver who has pulled on a helmet for Kurt, to every mate who’s stood beside us, and to every supporter who’s cheered from the fence. You’ve made this journey one I’ll never forget. “
Desolee Cowley (Murdoch)
Thirty one drivers have nominated for the event including Australian Champion Josh Harm, Shane Macdonald, Joel Berkley and Brodie Hollyman.
Official Nominations – 31
A1 Josh Harm
BB2 Joel Berkley
RK5 Luke Frenken
M7 Travis Hutchison
SB8 Chris Pagel
RK10 Russell Cowley
B12 Brodie Hollyman
M14 Deon Cook
GL15 Richard Cook
SC15 Jamie Beasmore
M16 Sam Grundy
G17 Neil Keldoulis
M17 Darryn Reid
SB17 Ian Bell
M18 Bryce Bayfield
BB21 Noel Peterson
M24 Mitchell Bayfield
RK25 Nathan O’Neill
BB26 Ryan Demarco
M36 Tanya Matthews
C44 Sam James
RK46 Kory Jennings
L48 Mathew Jones
SB48 Sheree Barron
CR57 Shane Macdonald
G71 Darren Lyons
RK72 Braith Hogan
WA74 Jorj Park
BB77 Frank Packer
M94 Gary Harris
SC99 Jye O’Brien