Vale Bob Minogue

PIARC was saddened to learn of the passing of longtime club member Bob Minogue, aged 84.

Bob was a friend to many within PIARC and the broader motorsport community, and he lived a full life with a deep and enduring passion for racing.

An active PIARC member dating back to the 1960s, Bob held a special place in the hearts of many club members. In 1994, he was recognised as PIARC’s John Lanyon Competitor of the Year, a fitting tribute to his contribution, commitment and competitive spirit.

Bob was a true competitor with a particular love of fast open-wheelers. His early racing exploits included hill climbs and circuit racing in the Sydney Rudge Vincent 500.

His trophy cabinet reflected both his talent and the impressive range of cars he drove. Bob placed third in the inaugural Formula Ford race at Sandown in November 1969 in an Aztec, and went on to compete in significant races across Australia. Over the years, he drove a remarkable list of cars, including Formula Libres, an Elfin Mono F2, an Elfin 600B Ford, and the ex-VDS Hamilton Lola T430 Formula 5000 HU1.

In 1981, Bob took on a field of Formula 5000s in the Rose City 10,000 and finished second. In 1991, he claimed first place in the Endeavour Cup, another significant achievement for a man who always gave racing his all.

During the 1990s, Bob also competed in the Gold Star series in his various Formula Holdens. He also owned the ex-Neil Allen Elfin ME5 Chev, along with a number of Porsche and Ferrari road cars, which occasionally saw active service at PIARC Sprints, as Bob would say, “just to blow the cobwebs out”.

Bob will be remembered not only for his racing achievements, but for his character, enthusiasm and long connection with PIARC. We extend our sincere condolences to Bob’s family, friends and all who knew him through motorsport.

Rest in peace, Bob. Your contribution to PIARC and Australian motorsport will be fondly remembered.

Funeral arrangements:
Thursday 30 April, 2pm – St Andrews Church (228 New St Brighton) followed by a wake at the Sandringham Yacht Club.

PIARC extends its thanks to longtime club member Geoff Bull for his care and assistance in researching Bob’s racing results and achievements.