The prestigious CAMS awards season has concluded for another year as the National Awards Gala Dinner presented by Burson Auto Parts ended what has been a fantastic run of award nights.

Taking place in front of a full house at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the country’s national champions, media, administrators and officials were all for their stellar 2018 seasons.

From Virgin Australia Supercars Champion Scott McLaughlin to CAMS Australian Rally Champion Eli Evans to CAMS Motorkhana Champion Corinne East-Johnston, the night celebrated the recent achievements of some of Australia’s most talented drivers.

2018 CAMS Australian Motorkhana Champion - Corinne East-Johnston

While the 2018 champions received their silverware, a host of special individuals were also acknowledged throughout the night for their contributions to for both 2018 and beyond.

The first individual award to be announced the Young Driver of the Year, with CAMS PAYCE Australian Formula 4 competitor Lochie Hughes named as the winner.

Hughes had a brilliant season in his debut Formula 4 season, dominating the Burson Rookie field, making him a well-deserved winner.

The evening’s main accolade, the Castrol Australian Official of the Year was awarded to South Australian Vincent Ciccarello after contributing to for more than 30 years.

During his time as an official, Ciccarello has held a variety of positions including Event Secretary, Clerk of Course and Race Director on an international level all the way down to grassroots.

2018 Castrol Australian Motor Official of the Year Vincent Ciccarello with CAMS President Andrew Papadopoulos

After being named as the Castrol Australian Official of the Year Ciccarello was thrilled with the award.

"It's very hard to pinpoint how I feel about winning this award because honestly, I feel a mixture of emotions," Ciccarello said.

"I am happy, I am anxious, I am over the moon and I am truly humbled about the experience.

"I worried about accepting the award at the start because I didn't think deserved it as there are thousands of talented officials worthy of the award, but now being here with this award, I am really appreciative that I am at the top of as Castrol Official of the Year."

Taking home the Peter Brock Medal, which an outstanding driver ability and commitment to the positive endorsement of , was Supercars driver Anton DePasquale.

The other special award to be announced was Phil Irving Award, with Robert Britton’s outstanding devotion and positive contributions to as an Australian engineer earning him the top gong.

Despite not being in attendance, Will Power was awarded the Sir Jack Brabham Award thanks to his efforts on the international stage last year, including his iconic Indianapolis 500 victory. 

Other individuals to be celebrated at the gala dinner were recent FIA award winners Barry Habgood and Matthew Croxford, who were both presented with their FIA Best Scrutineer and FIA Best Chief Medical Officer trophies.