Wimmera Kart Club member and 2025 AAA Local Athlete of the Year recipient Robbie Turmine has continued his impressive 2026 racing campaign, claiming the prestigious South Australian Black Plate at Mount Gambier last month.

Competing against a strong field of South Australian and interstate drivers, Turmine made his intentions clear from the outset. 

He set the pace during the Saturday morning practice sessions before carrying that form into qualifying, where he secured pole position by just two-hundredths of a second.

Starting from the front of the grid, Turmine made a strong getaway in the opening heat and became embroiled in a thrilling three-way battle for the lead. 

The trio crossed the finish line separated by less than half a second.

Challenging track conditions greeted drivers the following day, with dew leaving the circuit slippery and demanding. 

Despite the difficult conditions, Turmine again proved his class, taking another heat win against the highly competitive field.

His consistency continued throughout the remaining qualifying heat, where he delivered another faultless performance, leading from the green flag to the chequered flag to secure a front-row start for the 26-lap final.

After making final adjustments to his kart, Turmine lined up for the championship-deciding race. 

As they had throughout the weekend, the leading trio quickly broke away from the chasing pack, producing an exciting contest for spectators.

Displaying maturity and composure, Turmine carefully managed tyre wear to suit the changing track conditions. 

Despite late pressure from Mount Gambier drivers, he held his lead to claim victory, while also recording the fastest lap of the race. 

The win earned Turmine his first South Australian Black Plate and another significant milestone in his racing career.

The victory continues a strong run of form for the Wimmera driver, following several recent podium finishes, including a win at Hamilton in late May during the previous round of the Victorian Country Series.

Attention now turns to the next round of the Victorian Country Series, which will be at Dooen Raceway in mid-August. 

More than 200 competitors are expected to attend, giving local motorsport fans the opportunity to witness some of the state’s best grassroots kart racers, including multiple state and national championship winners.

– Bronwyn Hastings

The entire July 8, 2026 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!