After a disappointing 2024 season, Aussie offroad stalwart Robert Moore will look to lean on decades of experience and love for club racing to reignite his career.
Moore and partner Deanne are both proud Portland Buggy Club members, with Moore himself an honourable life member; and this weekend they will have a home ground advantage at the 2025 King of the Dunes.
Starting out in 1981, Moore navigated for his father Rodney at the Portland Sand Enduro in their 1200cc Datsun Rivmasta, and it was only a few years later in 1985 where Moore took to the wheel himself.
In 1986, the South Australian’s passion for racing led him to purchasing his first car, before building his very own Class 3 Hunter Rivmasta buggy in 1992, a vehicle that became synonymous with his success in the sport.
His standout career achievements to date include winning the 1997 Victorian Championship and finishing second place in the 2003 Class 3 Australian Championship.
Moore’s dedication didn’t stop there, going on to build his current Nissan Titan Bennett Trophy Truck with the assistant of Richard Bennett; a truck he hopes will carry him to more success this weekend.
“Despite a frustrating last 12 months or so with mechanical dramas at all three races, our 7 litre Chev engine built by Craig Carrison is awesome and we can’t wait to hit the Portland dunes,” said Moore.
“We love racing in the sand, it’s like our little playground, we are regularly down there over the Christmas and Easter breaks for some fun.
In a career spanning over four decades, there have been many highs and lows for Moore and his crew. Crossing 3rd outright twice at the Tasmanian Sand Enduro in his Rivmasta, and finishing two out of three attempts in the buggy and both times in his Class 4 Trophy Truck at the Finke Desert Race were other great moments.
Looking ahead to the rest of 2025, Moore’s expectations are simple: to finish races without any mechanical failures. Also, with a renewed focus, Moore is excited about the new Southern States Off Road Challenge that lies ahead.
“The new club challenge is going to be great, and it should be a lot of fun, just like the old days. We hope to be at as many rounds as possible and get to the finish.
As Moore prepares for another chapter in his offroad journey, he is thankful for the support of his sponsors and crew who make it all possible, including Craig Carrison Racing Engines, THR Developments, Trident Tyre Centre, Dick Upton for his help with the transmissions, along with Brodie, Soapy, Erik, David, Josh, Bev, and Rachel for their dedication and assistance.
The opening round of the inaugural Southern States Off Road Club Challenge, the Midfield King of the Dunes will be held next Saturday, the 22nd of February.
Story by TC Media
Pics courtesy of Steve Chapple, JS Motorsport Photography – JSMP, Turn 8 Photography
