FORMER RIDER TREVOR HARDING, 81, DIES

By Dennis Newlyn:

Australian Speedway lost one of its most affable characters with the passing of former rider Trevor Harding on October 16, 2024.

Trevor was a larger than life personality who started his career in Adelaide before he later moved to Western Australia. He then resided in Sydney where he was involved as co-promoter, with another former rider John McNeill, in the return of speedway to the Sydney Showground in 1988 after an absence of seven years.

In his riding days, he rose in status to a level that gained him selection in the Australian Test team. He was a part of the 1967-68 season revival bike Test series in Australia and rode in the First Test at the Sydney Showground on November 11, 1967. 

He is also remembered for the white riding leathers he wore.

Later in life he had an interest in speedway cars, while he also emerged as a sponsor within the sport helping competitors and also tracks via support from his Kwiksnax company.

He also was involved in bringing to Australia overseas bike teams and, overall, made a huge contribution to speedway.

One of his last public appearances was in Melbourne last June at the Speedway Australia awards night where he accepted the Hall of Fame induction trophy on behalf of Perth’s former Australian Champion, World Finalist and Test rider, Chum Taylor.

His passing has shocked the world speedway bike scene.

After experiencing heart failure he was placed on life support but succumbed to the heart attack with his adored wife Mary by his side.

A service of celebration for the life of Trevor Harding will be held at the Bowden Family Funeral Chapel, 365 Pacific Highway, Wyong, Wednesday, October 24, 2024 starting at 2:00PM.

For those who are unable to attend, a live stream from the chapel will be available. The live stream can be accessed at: www.bowdenfamilyfunerals.com.au

The Australian Speedway Riders’ Association Treasurer Bill Powell issued the following statement:

Dear Members.

“It is with great sorrow that I announce the unexpected and sudden passing of our beloved ASRA Patron Trevor “Ghosty” Harding.  Trevor aged 81 years, passed away in hospital Wednesday 16th October”.

“We will all miss Trevor’s pleasant smile and friendly unassuming personality.  He always had time for everyone and everything.  He was a sincere and loyal member or the ASRA”.

“Trevor served as Secretary of our Association from 2006-2009 and was instrumental in restructuring the Association.  He provided a new style of Newsletter and set up T-shirt and cap regalia sales to provide financial assistance, which enabled the Association to continue, He has always demonstrated dedication and true loyalty to the sport of speedway and also our Association, Trevor was a truly remarkable person as a rider, promoter, advisor and sponsor”.

“He founded the company Kwiksnax, In fact, the Kwiksnax story is one of rags to riches, the company sold food on a route around Sydney’s prime industrial sites, Trevor, as Secretary of our Association in 2006, utilised his professional management skills and performed another rags to riches story with the VSRA (ASRA)”.

“During his term of office, he displayed an enormous passion and drive and was responsible for the recruitment of many new members.  Trevor was of great assistance to me when I was appointed Treasurer in 2006″.

“It was once said that “Trevor Lives for Speedway” and no truer words were spoken because Trevor was still very active in current speedway activities up until his sad passing”.

“Trevor was appointed ASRA Patron in January 2020″.

“Speedway has lost a Great Ambassador with Trevor’s passing”.

“He was a champion, not only as a rider but as a human being”.

“I feel so lucky and honored to have known my good friend Trevor as well as I did”.

“Deepest sympathy is extended to Trevor’s wife Mary, family and friends at this sad time”.

“RIP Trevor

Kind thoughts”

Bill Powell

ASRA