The Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS) and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) are saddened to hear of the passing of long-standing official Peter Nelson.
Peter has long been involved with the Australian Grand Prix in both Adelaide and Melbourne, and was Secretary of the Meeting from 1985 until 2007.
CAMS CEO Eugene Arocca paid tribute to Peter’s outstanding contribution to Australian motor sport.
“Peter was without question the architect of running a modern Formula 1 race, not just here in Australia but also around the world,” Arocca said.
“He will be sorely missed at this week’s event at Albert Park.
“Peter was an inspiration and mentor to many, including many of us at CAMS. He was always calm, organised and his positive attitude had a profound influence on all officials.
“He was also heavily involved in the administration of motor sport as a National Council Member, an appointee to numerous CAMS committees, a member of the Australian Motor Race Commission, President of the Phillip Island Auto Racing Club (PIARC) and many more distinguished roles.”
Peter was awarded CAMS life membership in 2002.
AGPC Chairman John Harnden also paid tribute to an “amazing man”.
“Peter was a true pioneer for motor sport, both four wheels and two,” Harnden said.
“His contribution, not only at Formula 1 events around the world, but also in MotoGP, helped shape the organisation of motor sport as we know it today for which we are forever grateful.
“He is an amazing man who will be greatly missed.”
Current president PIARC Geoff Bull spoke highly of Peter.
“Whist we are allowed to feel sad, that Peter will not be around in a physical presence any more, I feel glad and proud to have worked, lived and played with this remarkable man for 50 years,” Bull said.
Peter passed away on Tuesday, 20 March, following a long battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife Marcia, children Melissa, Kirrily and Jo, along with grandchildren Kyle, Hanna, Marli and Lewis.
