The dedication and commitment of officials was recognised at RallyWA’s End of Year Celebration on Saturday night.
Long-time volunteer Haydn Joss (pictured) was named Official of the Year.
Presenting the award, RallyWA’s Wendy Walker said: “Hadyn is always willing to help at events and has been doing so for many years.”
In 2013, Joss racked up 38 years in rallying and this year his roles included Competitor Relations Officer on the Forest Rally and Australasian Safari.
He was also Deputy Clerk of Course on the Donnelly and Experts Cup rallies; Setter on Lewana, Safari and Darling events; and Assistant Clerk of Course at Targa West.
Joss said: “I get a big buzz out of being able to be involved in such a well-organised sport.”
“I’m thrilled to be recognised for my efforts but also a little bit embarrassed to be singled out,” he added.
While his extended family has been a big part of WA rallying for many decades, Joss said he considered all of the WA rally community to be his ‘family’.
The title of Young Official of the Year went to Ben Simpson who was overseas at the time of Saturday’s celebration.
Walker presented his award to John Travis from Team Hotel and said: “Ben’s been helping on rallies since long before he could drive a car on the road, helping his granddad, former RallyWA Official of the Year Bob Large, pack the trailer with all the equipment for Team Hotel.“
“Ben is an enthusiastic team member and has performed every role within a stage team with confidence,” she added.
Simpson said his 2013 rally highlight was taking on the role of Stage Commander for the first time at the Darling 200.
The 20 year old, who has roped many friends into lending a hand as well, said he was ‘surprised and very happy’ to be named Young Official of the Year and he looked forward to being involved in a greater capacity in the future.
“I just want to thank RallyWA for giving me the experience,” Simpson said.
RallyWA would like to say ‘thank you’ to all its officials who provide invaluable support to the smooth running of events throughout the year.
We look forward to seeing you back out in the dust in 2014.
SUBSCRIBE BELOW TO READ THE FULL STORY
