Fatal accident at Speed on Tweed

[PVDA]

Fatal accident at Speed on Tweed
CAMS Press Release (updated)
19 Sep 2004

A motor sport competitor has died this afternoon in an accident during an historic sprint event at Murwillumbah, New South Wales.

Jon Chippindall, 54 years old from Queensland, was competing in the Festival of Speed on Tweed when the accident occurred just before 3:00pm.

The Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS) will conduct a full investigation into the incident. In the meantime, CAMS and event officials are working with the relevant civil authorities.

CAMS, on behalf of the motor sport community, offers its sincere sympathy to the families and friends involved.

CAMS may issue additional statements as further information becomes available for release.

--
For more information regarding this release please contact:

Jenny Thompson, Communications Manager, CAMS
Tel: 03 9593 7777

FOR MEDIA INFORMATION PURPOSES - NO REGULATORY VALUE

I'm sure all our thoughts are with the drivers family, friends and those involved with the event.

[Gaz170]

More info from THE GOLD COAST BULLETIN

'Chippy' killed in festival smash
20Sep04

A HISTORIC car buff died when his supercharged 1929 Austin 7 flipped and landed on him during yesterday's Speed on Tweed festival at Murwillumbah.

Jon Chippindall, 54, of Brisbane, lost control on a bend during a time trial through the streets of the town.

The historic car racing community were in mourning yesterday, describing `Chippy' as an experienced driver who had been a fixture at racing events across the region for years.

The accident happened about 3pm, just as organisers were preparing to wrap up the weekend with a presentation ceremony at the popular Murwillumbah event, now in its third year.

Spectators and neighbours said the car rolled on its side, throwing Mr Chippindall out of the car, which then flipped on top of him.

Volunteers rushed to his aid and a doctor was on the scene almost immediately.

Racing was suspended and the track was closed.

Event director Roger Ealand said the layout of the track was not to blame for the tragedy and the car had complied with strict safety rules.

He said Mr Chippindall, whom he had known for about eight years, loved the event.

"He was always at race meetings and had always been at Speed on Tweed since the beginning," he said.

"He was one of its greatest supporters.

"He told me (yesterday) morning it was his favourite event and the only thing he would cancel everything for. He genuinely enjoyed it."

Mr Ealand said organisers were already talking about creating some sort of tribute to the popular man at next year's event.

My sincere condolences to Chippy's family & friends at this difficult time.

note: I've cut & pasted the article as they only remain on the paper's web site for a couple of days, and I thought it was worth keeping here.