Walkers Turf Supplies Grows with Steve Read Racing at Winternationals

Ipswich, QLD – 4th June, 2025

Steve Read Racing is proud to confirm the continued support of Walkers Turf Supplies for the upcoming 57th Winternationals, taking place 5th–8th June, 2025 at Willowbank Raceway.

Based in Ipswich, the Walker family has played an increasingly hands-on role within Read’s Top Fuel operation over the last 12 months. Ian, Sue, Jacob (“Trev”), and Nick Walker are not only long-time supporters of local sport through their business—they now form part of the race crew. The other members of the family, Stephanie and Hayden are also available to lend a hand and support the team.

What started with a visit to the workshop quickly turned into a full team commitment. Ian and Jacob first saw the dragster sitting on jackstands, and their curiosity took over. With years of experience around trucks and machinery, the mechanical side of the operation sparked immediate interest.

Jacob now handles the right-hand cylinder head and backs Steve up from the burnout.

“He’s taken real ownership of that role,” says driver and team owner, Steve Read. “He’s capable, talented, and humble. When Jacob first joined us, he had a healthy amount of apprehension being around a nitro motor. Now he’s settled into the role, and his attention to detail can shine through.”

Nick works on the bottom end and often rides in the Team Orange dragster as it’s towed to the lanes.

“Nick is a brilliant asset,” Read adds. “Hard-working, focused—we couldn’t do this without him. He’s earned that seat to the staging lanes!”

Ian Walker looks after fuel and oil, including cleaning the oil pan and preparing the nitro mix. His background in business, logistics, and machinery makes him a key part of Steve Read Racing’s daily and race-day operations.

And then there’s Sue—well known across the pits for her catering. From lunches between qualifying sessions to hearty home-cooked dinners, she keeps the entire crew fuelled and focused.

“Sue lays out the most incredible food options for the whole team,” says Read. “It’s some of the finest food we’ve ever had at the track—and it keeps morale high.”

Reflecting on the Walkers’ role in the team, Steve adds:

“They came in with open minds and rolled up their sleeves from day one. No ego, no shortcuts—just commitment. We run on a small budget, and you need people like that around you. They’re not just partners; they’re part of our family.”

From Ian’s perspective, the shift from turf to Top Fuel has been a welcome challenge.

“Running a business teaches you a lot—planning, consistency, and knowing when to ask questions,” says Ian Walker. “This team runs the same way. There’s no room for guesswork in nitro, and I’ve really enjoyed learning something completely new with the boys by my side.”

Read reflected on the positive impact the Walker family has had on the team:

“Their work ethic, local support, and willingness to learn on the fly lift our entire operation. They jumped in knowing nothing about dragsters and now handle critical tasks on race day. Their participation is more than sponsorship—it’s genuine partnership. We’re looking forward to getting this dragster closer to the 3s at the Winters, and putting on a great show for the fans!”

Winternationals 2025 Event Details

The 57th Winternationals will be held from Thursday, 5 June to Sunday, 8 June 2025 at Willowbank Raceway, Willowbank QLD 4306. Gates open daily at 8:00 AM.

Steve Read Racing will take part in Qualifying Sessions 2 and 3 on Saturday, 7 June, followed by 3 rounds under the ARF (all-run format) on Sunday, 8 June.

As the home event for both Steve and the Walker family, a strong contingent of local supporters—including extended family and Ipswich dignitaries—will be on hand to cheer the team on as they face off against an ultra-competitive Top Fuel field.

For tickets and more information, visit www.willowbankraceway.com.au.

About Walkers Turf Supplies

Walkers Turf Supplies, based in Raceview, Ipswich, has provided premium turf solutions and landscaping services across South East Queensland since 1991. Ian, Sue, Jacob, and Nick Walker take pride in their community involvement and Ipswich sporting heritage, delivering expert advice, quality products, and hands-on support to every customer.Learn more at www.walkersturfsupplies.com.au.