TAFE NSW automotive students are gearing up for the opportunity of a lifetime working alongside professional race teams at next week’s Repco Bathurst 1000. 

The students will be introduced to the $3 billion Australian motorsport industry by repairing and maintaining vehicles in support classes during race week, with some students landing work placement opportunities within Supercars race teams.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Automotive, Trent O’Neill, said the fast-paced environment of the Bathurst 1000 offers students a unique and hands-on introduction to motorsport.

“With the Bathurst campus located at the foot of Mount Panorama, this event provides a once in a lifetime opportunity for students to experience life in the fast lane,” Mr O’Neill said.

“Students will be in pit lane from Thursday through to Sunday as part of the TAFE NSW Support Crew and will be required to problem solve, maintain and repair vehicles as they come into the pits.

“Not only is this a valuable learning experience for students, it also offers them the opportunity to work alongside and network with industry professionals and better understand the career pathways that they can follow into motorsport.”

Former TAFE NSW student, Matthew Johnson, is working as part of the Dick Johnson Racing (DJR) crew at this year’s event and credits his time at TAFE NSW as a platform for his career in motorsport.

“How many apprentices can say they’ve worked in pit lane at the biggest event in Australian motorsport?” Matthew said.

“This is a unique opportunity that puts students’ skills to the test in a noisy, fast-paced and very real racing environment.”

“The skills they gain and the connections they make next week will give them a real head start in their careers.”

Sally Webster has just finished a Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Studies alongside her HSC and is wrapping up her TAFE NSW experience with work placement at the Bathurst 1000. 

"Being able to get my certificate while still at school provided me with so many opportunities, already this year I’ve worked with and been mentored by some incredible women in Motorsport,” Sally said.

“My TAFE teachers have been a great support, focusing on the skills we need to succeed, and encouraging us to take up every opportunity the industry has to offer.

“I feel pumped and prepared to work at the Bathurst 1000, I’m keen to get in on the action.”

Media contact: Katie Hitchcock, Communications Specialist, mediarelease@tafensw.edu.au, 0400 371 996