Dr Sam Shahin and Paul Morris join Motorsport Australia’s Motorsport Risk and Safety Committee (MRSC) in 2025 as the organisation continues to build industry-wide support in growing and protecting the future of motorsport in Australia.

Formed in 2022, the MRSC works to identify and mitigate the risks inherent in motorsport with a strong focus on continuing to improve safety for participants, officials, and spectators.

Shahin and Morris join a committee comprising some of motorsport’s most experienced figures across diverse disciplines and skills, including Ian Gillespie AM (Chair), Garry Connelly AM, Roland Dane, Coral Taylor, Kristen Bailey and Adam Berryman.

“We are pleased to welcome Sam and Paul to the Motorsport Risk and Safety Committee. They bring formidable credentials and recognise the value Motorsport Australia’s MRSC brings to building a safer sport for all,” Motorsport Australia CEO, Sunil Vohra said.

“As part of Motorsport Australia’s role in governing all parts of the sport, the MRSC brings a powerhouse of industry knowledge together to actively work to improve safety.”

Shahin and Morris’ appointments reflect the continued recalibration at Motorsport Australia with focus on building the structures to protect and grow the sport.

Morris’ vast experience as a multi-discipline competitor in Australia and internationally, provides a deep knowledge of the challenging landscape. 

Owner of the Norwell Motorplex, the Bathurst 1000 winner and four-time Australian Super Touring Champion is a leader and mentor to many, while shaping future generations of the sport through the Norwell Racing School.

“Because we operate our own circuit, it’s essentially a race meeting every day for us,” Morris said.

“Motorsport is much safer compared to when I started, but you can’t take anything for granted. You need to be at the cutting edge, always looking to improve and I look forward to drawing on my experience to add value to this committee and the motorsport community.”

A qualified medical practitioner and founder of Australia’s largest motorsport facility The Bend Motorsport Park, Shahin’s motivation to join the committee is underpinned by his firsthand knowledge of racing risks as a competitor, and his desire to contribute to the continual evolution of sporting safety.

“Motorsport is a sport built on passion, skill, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, and safety must always be at the forefront of that pursuit,” Shahin said.

“Having experienced the sport from multiple perspectives – as a competitor, circuit owner, and medical professional – I understand the importance of continually refining our approach to risk management.

“I look forward to working with my fellow committee members to ensure motorsport remains as safe as possible while preserving the thrill and spirit that makes it so special.”