Kimberly Hughes has a remarkable journey in motorsport, evolving from a volunteer to a prominent leader within Motorsport Australia. Her career, filled with challenges and rewards, highlights the integral role of over 11,000 officials in the motorsport community, where the sense of camaraderie brings her immense joy.
Her motorsport story began at Mount Panorama during the 2011 Bathurst 1000, where a weekend of volunteering sparked her passion. Coming from a family deeply rooted in motorsport, transitioning from a spectator to an essential figure at major events was a natural progression for Hughes.
Starting as a volunteer and gradually shouldering more responsibilities, Hughes’ journey saw her coordinating various operational aspects, from ticketing to corporate suites. In 2016, Repco Supercars recognized her potential, offering her a role in event administration, where she flourished under the guidance of experienced administrators.
By 2022, Hughes secured a full-time position at Motorsport Australia, overseeing operations for prestigious events like the Shannons SpeedSeries, Supercars, and the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix. Her early volunteer days laid a strong foundation for understanding and meeting the needs of the volunteer community effectively.
Aside from her motorsport background, Hughes’ skills as a library manager equipped her with vital organizational and time management abilities crucial for high-performance environments. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the volunteer officials who dedicate their time and effort to the sport.
Managing a volunteer workforce successfully, according to Hughes, requires traits like compassion, patience, flexibility, and inclusivity. Motorsport Australia’s initiatives, such as the Senior Officials Development Program, aim to promote participation and skill development among officials, fostering a supportive and inclusive community.
Post-event, Hughes finds immense satisfaction in reflecting on the teamwork that drives event success and witnessing the community’s mutual support. Her journey epitomizes motorsport’s essence, characterized by passion, community spirit, and unwavering dedication.
Motorsport Australia acknowledges the invaluable contribution of all volunteers, emphasizing their role in ensuring safe, fair, and enjoyable motorsport events. Whether a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer, becoming a Motorsport Australia volunteer official offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of motorsport.
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