The engines are roaring, and the excitement is building! Students studying the Certificate II in Automotive Air Conditioning Technology at The BUSY School Cleveland and Coolangatta campuses are rolling up their sleeves and getting their hands dirty as they help build two race cars—a WRX and a Subaru Impreza—to compete in the Clippy Cup at Queensland Raceway on 12 July.
This incredible learning experience is made possible through the dedicated support of Allora College, whose hands-on approach to vocational training ensures students gain real-world skills in automotive technology. Under the expert guidance of Trainer and Assessor Peter Whitney, students are not only learning the mechanics behind race car preparation but also developing the teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience needed in the automotive industry.
While the race is the fun part, the real win is the chance for our students to put their skills to the test and see their hard work in action as they bring these cars to life. With support of local businesses and the community, these young technicians are learning to build, tune, and prepare their race cars for a 12-hour non-stop race – and you or your business can also help to get them across the finish line- find out how below!
Coolangatta Acting Campus Principal, Tamara Hall, expressed her excitement about the project, emphasising the invaluable experience it provides for students.
“This is an incredible opportunity for our students to take what they’ve learned in their course and apply it in a real-world setting,” Ms. Hall said. “Not only are they developing technical skills, but they’re also gaining hands-on experience that will set them up for future careers in the automotive industry.”
Cleveland Campus Principal Andrew Cavanagh echoed these sentiments, highlighting the dedication of both students and staff.
“Our students are not just learning about cars—they’re building them from the ground up and preparing them for competition,” Mr. Cavanagh said. “This is a fantastic initiative that showcases their skills and determination, and it’s inspiring to see their passion for the industry come to life.”
Trainer and Assessor at Allora, Peter Whitney brings years of experience to the track, mentoring students as they strip down, rebuild, and fine-tune the vehicles for peak performance. His passion for training the next generation of automotive professionals is a driving force behind this project, ensuring students are race-ready with skills they can take into future careers.
Our Trainers and Teachers at The BUSY School will be driving the cars in the race, giving students an opportunity to see their work take centre stage in an unforgettable way. These dedicated staff members are more than ready to rev it up and put the pedal to the metal for a great cause!
To help raise funds, the students will be hosting sausage sizzles and other fun fundraising activities to raise the required funds for their cars. So, if you are looking for a way to get involved and support the next generation of automotive experts, this is your chance!
This project is made possible by the generosity of local businesses so if you would like to get involved and sponsor a car to help make this race a reality, contact our Corporate Partnerships Manager, Lana Endersby, at 0476 772 640 or lana.endersby@busyschools.com.au.
