Classic stuff at Carnell
• 9-10 April, 2022 – Carnell Raceway, Stanthorpe Qld.
Queensland Early Motorcycle Sports Club Inc (QEMSC) Carnell Classic
The weather was kind in early April, with sunny skies and pleasant temperatures, for the running of the QEMSC 2022 Carnell Classic. For those not familiar with Stanthorpe, it’s the coldest town in Queensland, and snow is often recorded. I thoroughly recommend a visit. There is much to offer including numerous wineries and spectacular national parks as well as fantastic historic bike racing. An opportunity to enjoy it all will be on the weekend of July 2nd and 3rd when QEMSC hosts the 2022 “Big Chill” historic race meeting.
Along with the large number of new riders at the Carnell Classic this year, there were many more experienced riders who rode with style and provided great entertainment. More than 100 bikes were entered in all classes from Period 2 to Period 6 solos and sidecars. Some excellent racing was enjoyed by both competitors and a large number of spectators. One of the more spectacular riders was Ryan Munns on the Bultaco Metralla his father John prepares. Ryan rode like a pro and won each of his races by the length of the main straight.
Mark Organ won the Old Bike Australasia King/Queen of Carnell feature race on a 1999 ZR 250
Kawasaki Balius, believed to be the only one racing in Australia. The bike was built for racing in 2006 by the late Ken Lockhart. Ken raced it until 2013. After he passed away in 2016, the bike was offered to Martyn Southall of RAM Garage (Brisbane-based Kawasaki specialists) for restoration. Martyn spent a year restoring the bike, and the Carnell Classic was its first race meeting since then.
Period 3 sidecars, although short in numbers this year, also provided the usual thrills. The team of Ross Kenman and Andy Ireland on their recently rebuilt, ex-Barry Sievers Norton Atlas, were untouchable all weekend. Look out for them as future honours contenders at the 2022 Aussie historic titles. A special mention must be made of QEMSC club stalwart, Dave Vincent. When not swinging on a Vincent outfit, he races his solo bikes. Dave has been heavily involved in organising race events at Carnell for many years; and his efforts were rewarded when he had his first ever win on his Suzuki
250. In fact, Dave not only won his class but also the “Over 110 years combined bike and rider” event.
I would also like to acknowledge former Australian Historic 125 Champion, Bernie Summers, or
“Bummers” as he is fondly known. Now retired from racing, Bernie was guest of honour at this year’s Carnell Classic in recognition of his contribution to the sport and his dedication to QEMSC. Special thanks must go to all the officials, volunteers and flaggies for their dedication and assistance. Also a big thanks to QEMSC for conducting yet another great race meeting.
Please remember… QEMSC will host the 2022 Queensland Historic Championships at Morgan Park, via Warwick, on September 7th and 8th. Meanwhile, I hope to see you all at the “Big Chill” at Stanthorpe in July. ■