Norwell Motorplex has played host to 14 young drivers in the latest extension of the Erebus Academy’s ‘Who’s Next’ program.

Following the initial call out back in May, the overwhelming response encouraged Erebus CEO Barry Ryan to offer 14 remaining applicants the opportunity to attend a training day at Norwell Motorplex. 

The attendees had a vast range of experience and included go-karters Cooper Cutts, Louis Rossi, Zackary Thompson and Jr-Lung Haybartlem, as well as production car driver Cameron MacDougall, Excel racer Jackson Shaw, Saloon car driver Chase Hoy, Formula Ford driver Cameron Mcleod and Formula 3 driver Jackson Shaw.

The group also included S5000 pilot Kaleb Ngatoa, Racing Together driver Karlai Warner, stunt driver Maddox Mingay and saw the return of Aussie Racing Car driver Tom Hayman, who had previously attended the Academy’s Supercar test at Winton last month.

“Each of the drivers came into their session with very different skill sets so it was really about evaluating where each driver is currently at,” Ryan said.

“Some of the applicants weren’t ready to jump straight in a Supercar so it’s important for them to get this training and have this experience so we can guide them towards their next steps in the sport.

“They were each here to learn more about driving, to hone their current skills, develop new skills and get an understanding of what it takes to become a Supercar driver.”

With the group split into three, each session began with driving theory and a track walk followed by skid pan and race track sessions, with consistent feedback from instructors provided in between. 

The participants were also joined by Erebus Motorsport drivers Will Brown and Brodie Kostecki who provided guidance for the rookie drivers from both inside and outside of the cars.

Having spent a significant amount of time at Norwell himself, Kostecki understands the importance of these kinds of experiences and enjoyed watching the progression of the drivers.

“You can’t put a value on these kinds of experiences for young drivers,” Kostecki said.

“It’s extremely rare to get opportunities like this to be able to learn from people who have a lot of experience and really want to help bring the next generation through.

“Each of the drivers took me for a hot lap and I was able to see their progression from the start to the end of the day.

“It was great to see them really listening, absorbing all the information and to see them all end the day with a smile on their face.”

Following the success of the ‘Who’s Next’ program, the Erebus Academy is looking forward to continuing to provide these experiences and continuing fostering young motorsport talent.