I started the business with my wife, Raelene, in 1985. We started with one full time employee, no racecars, no engines and no money or sponsors. Over time we built a steady, successful race team, with complete emphasis on sound engineering and competitive machinery, which allowed us to build up a very strong customer base. From 1985 to 2012, Perkins Engineering built 49 V8Supercars, 198 Race Engines, Won three Bathurst’s, three Sandown/Queensland 500’s, over 20 race wins, and three pole positions, plus we supplied and maintained the engines for seven consecutive Formula Holden (Brabham) Gold Star Titles. Over those years, the business grew respect and recognition in the Australian Motor Racing industry, and at times employed in excess of 50 people. We were also extremely proud to represent the many sponsors and supporters that chose to be with our team. Our thanks extend to Holden and Castrol for over 20 years of support and of course thanks to our last sponsor, and an industry first; Jack Daniel’s. I also enjoyed tremendous on-track success with many drivers and co-drivers, including the late Denny Hulme, Peter Brock and Gregg Hansford, and also to current drivers Russell Ingall, Steven Richards and Todd Kelly, to name a few. None of this success would have been possible without the huge efforts, loyalty, commitment and dedication of the people that were Perkins Engineering, and not to specifically mention; Barry Abbettmeyer, Shaun Hockey and my PA Kim Menzies would be a disservice to them. I fought many battles on the track, in the boardroom and in the Stewards room, however I can proudly say that I feel I contributed my part to the huge success of V8Supercars.
