Brodie Glendinning

Nissan 300zx 

Matthew mclachlan

2009 FORD XR6T UTE

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
My family was involved in drag racing when I was a kid

What was the first car you ever owned?
Holden VR Commodore II

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
Barra swapped HJ

The Build

Tell us about your XR6T Ute

Fully built engine with a Powerglide, Emtron KV8, Garrett GTX50, roll cage, and parachute.

All work completed by Profile, JD Auto, JW Automotive, Headsence RLC Revolutionary.

Does it have a nickname?

BLAZER because it Blazers!

Why this car?

Wanted to beef up the BA but was going to be a bit too expensive - I saw the FG on Marketplace 5 or 6 years ago and built from there.

Where does this car spend most of its time?
It's a daily driver and a track and show car! 

Challenges & lessons learned

Having to rebuild a car is always challenging

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

After a life-changing injury, cars have helped keep me out of depression and given me the opportunity to meet tons of great people.

Chris and the Growl family are fantastic, especially when it comes to top-end events

ROBERT DUMITROV

2001 mitsubishi mirage

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
The sex spec era while I was growing up.

What was the first car you ever owned?
Actual 91 BT1 VP Commodore I bought off the first owner after it was sold off by QPS.

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
My 2011 SSV Wagon except with a ZZP632 big block, a sh*tload of nitrous and a 9-inch rear end.

The Build

Tell us about your Mirage

I originally had the car turbo'd, but the turbo that was on it was starting to fail. It now runs an STI VF48 turbo with a modified manifold and a removable dump pipe, which was custom-made by a good mate of mine, Dylan, at my workplace, AutoWorks. Originally, the exhaust was a single piece running from the turbo all the way to the rear.

It’s running a Link Evo8X plug-in ECU, and I’ll be adding a Link Strada Street dash once I order the correct loom. The car also features a full Droid body kit and an Evo-style bonnet.

Why this car?

I’ve always had V8’s and Commodores with a few imports here and there. But once I saw this little turbo mirage I knew I had to have it.

Where does this car spend most of its time?
I drive it to work each day!

Challenges & lessons learned

Challenges? Not really just improving the Mirage more and more as I go.

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

The reception this little machine gets is incredible, and I love how many people it surprises with its turbo dose. If you want to build something like this, roll up your sleeves and give it a go. Having great mates to help along the way is absolutely priceless.

JOSH NICHOLLS

2007 FORD BF XR8

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
Building cars with my Dad growing up ignited my passion for cars. 

What was the first car you ever owned?
1981 TF Cortina Wagon

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
Always had a dream to turn a BF wagon into a FG front end, blown 5.0L painted lime green and make a modern day GS Wagon.

The Build

Tell us about your XR8

I have owned it for coming on two years now. 

I have a special bond with my car, when she isn't happy she makes it known, which in turn makes me spend more time with her fixing things. 

It has a nickname - Censored HXXN.  I've always been called a HOON, PPQ wouldn't let me have that as a number plate cause it insights dangerous driving.  So, I had to censor the plates to HXXN. 

The wrap was done by CMP Wraps. I personally fitted and set the coil overs from Titan Suspension. Wheels were custom ordered from JDM Concept.  Headlights were made by SS Customs Qld fitted by yours truly.  Fog lights were made by That Halo Guy fitted by yours truly.  Taillights are a 1 of 1 made and designed by JStyle Designs and fitted by yours truly. 

Interior was done and fitted by Carmans Auto Trimmers. 

Why this car?

I've always loved the look of the B series Falcon, the ass ends are phat when set right with some wide tyres.  I've now owned 7 of this model and still currently own 3 of them.  

I saw this on Facebook Marketplace, it was Seduce Red and had a sunroof and I just had to have it.  Well, the Seduce Red didn't last too long!

Where does this car spend most of its time?
In the shed when it's not at car shows. 

Challenges & lessons learned

I don't regret any of the mods, just wish I had more funds to get everything all done at once.  My advice to anyone would be to take your time and don't be afraid to build to your liking instead of what other's think. 

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

Been plenty of ups and downs as things go wrong, but I wouldn't have it any other way.  She is exactly how I want her to look.  

My time with Growl has been great.  I've only ever managed to get to one outing due to work, but I love seeing what Growl is doing for the car community.  It was certainly needed, that's for sure.  

nikki vellnagel

1979 DATSUN SUNNY B310 SEDAN

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
Loud cars have always had my interest since I was a kid.  It grew in high school when I did my work experience at a couple of mechanical and performance shops. 

What was the first car you ever owned?
MX73 Cressida that was riddled with rust from sitting under a tree. 

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
Honestly, it would be my Datto.  To a whole new level. 

The Build

Tell us about your Datto 

I have owned it for going on 13 years!  It is 100% DIY to this stage.  Until it gets to tuning and interior, we will do everything else and learn on the way.  

So far she has: 3RZ Turbo, Hilux running gear and diff, Custom coilovers and front brake set up from Superfatto, cute little front mount, fuel system in the boot, 4link rear, forward facing plenum, Haltech 750, Haltech IC7.  

Still to come: The interior, paint and lots more ... ha ha!

Does it have a nickname?

We named her Rosie the day we picked her up.  It was mostly based on her colour but it also sounds like a nice name for an older lady. 

Why this car?

Wanted to beef up the BA but was going to be a bit too expensive - I saw the FG on Marketplace 5 or 6 years ago and built from there.

Where does this car spend most of its time?

Currently on the hoist in our shed

Challenges & lessons learned

I don't really have any regrets (yet).  Hardest part for us so far was setting up the diff and 4link.  Next will be making custom flares to fit the wheels.  

My advice:  Severely plan out your build so you don't get stuck halfway.  Do your research on your engine swaps and ideas.  Don't get stuck in the normal route of doing things if you don't want to.  Be different, have fun with it.  Make it your own! 

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

She has a long way to go.  But she has also come so far.  She breaks my heart but also heals it at the same time.  I plan to have her in project stage at Growl Racings event in March.  And completed for Growl Event in 2027!  

The journey with Rosie has been long and still has a long way but we make it our own.  We have fun with it.  We may not have done things how other's would have but that's the best part.  It's my build.  It may not be exactly how we planned but we are building her in memory, and I hope it's making him proud. 

dean dervisevic

audi rs3 8v sportback

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
When I got my first Hot Wheels toy car at only a few years old - and was obsessed with cars ever since. 

What was the first car you ever owned?
Volkswagen Golf GTI MK6 

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 

The Build

Tell us about your Audi

I've owned it for one year.  The car has been kept tastefully cosmetically modified only, focusing on enhancing its factory aggression rather than overdoing it, since it is already a rapid and nice sounding car stock.  Cosmetically, it’s fitted with an all-around Maxton Design lip kit, Eibach sport springs to dial in the stance, and 19-inch Avant Garde wheels in gloss black, which really sharpen the overall look. It also has window tints, headlight tints blacked-out badges, and subtle exterior details to keep everything clean and cohesive.  On the performance side, it has only an air intake kit for improved sound and breathing.  All modifications were professionally installed, ensuring everything is done properly and to a high standard. The goal has always been a refined, OEM+ build that looks aggressive, purposeful, and timeless rather than heavily modified.

Does it have a nickname?

I call it the Baby Lambo. The nickname comes from a mix of shared DNA, sound, and attitude, not just hype. The biggest reason is the engine sound. The RS3’s 2.5L turbocharged five-cylinder produces a deep, exotic, off-beat growl that’s very similar to the older naturally aspirated Lamborghini V10s. When pushed, it delivers that raw, angry, high-rev scream people normally associate with supercars, not hatchbacks. That sound alone is what first made people draw the comparison.  There’s also shared heritage. Audi and Lamborghini both sit under the Volkswagen Auto Group, meaning engineering philosophy, performance standards, and drivetrain tech overlap. While they’re very different cars, that connection helped fuel the comparison and gave the RS3 credibility beyond the hot-hatch category.  Add in the quattro all-wheel drive, brutal off-the-line acceleration, and the RS3’s wide, aggressive stance, and you get supercar-level performance in a compact body. From a roll or launch, the RS3 punches far above its weight, often embarrassing much more expensive cars.  Put all of that together, exotic sound, violent acceleration, angry looks, and supercar DNA, and the RS3 earned the nickname “Baby Lamborghini” as a smaller, more practical machine that still delivers a taste of that supercar experience.

Why this car?

I chose the Audi RS3 Sportback 8V because it delivers a perfect mix of raw performance, aggressive design, and everyday usability.

The quattro all-wheel-drive drivetrain was a major reason, it puts the power down hard and gives insane grip and confidence in any conditions, making the car feel planted and relentless when you push it. Combined with the legendary 2.5L turbo five-cylinder, it delivers brutal acceleration and a sound that instantly sets it apart. The Sportback body style is another huge win. It keeps the car practical and versatile while still looking compact, muscular, and purposeful. Add in the wide stance, sharp lines, and angry front-end, and the RS3 has a presence that looks just as aggressive standing still as it does in motion.  I wanted a car that wasn’t just fast, but had attitude, character, and daily usability, something that stands out from the crowd and delivers every time I get behind the wheel. The RS3 does exactly that.

Where does this car spend most of its time?

The car spends most of its time in the garage, kept clean and looked after. It isn’t a full daily, but it does get driven from time to time on weekends when the opportunity’s right.  You’ll mainly see it out at car meets, shows, and special events, where it can be properly appreciated. When it’s driven, it’s about enjoying the experience, the sound, the performance, and the presence, rather than just clocking up kilometres.  It’s more of a weekend and event car, saved for when it counts.

Challenges & lessons learned

From prior experience, tuning and modifying European cars taught me a big lesson, which is why I’ve chosen to keep this RS3 engine stock and focus purely on cosmetic upgrades.  In the past, once you start modifying the engine, issues always seem to follow.  Reliability takes a hit, unexpected problems pop up, and it also tends to attract unwanted attention from police, which takes away from the enjoyment of the car. On top of that, heavily modifying the engine can actually make you lose what makes the car special in the first place, the raw power delivery and sound it has from the factory.

There aren’t any mods I regret on this build because everything was done with a clear plan: keep it OEM+, clean, and refined. The most difficult part was knowing when to stop and not getting carried away chasing more power. 

My advice to anyone planning similar mods is to respect the platform. These cars are incredibly well engineered from factory. If it’s not going to genuinely improve reliability, drivability, or long-term enjoyment, it’s probably not worth it. Sometimes less really is more, especially with a car like this.

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

This car represents more than just a build, it reflects my journey as a car enthusiast and the lessons learned along the way. The RS3 is something I’ve been patient with, choosing to enjoy it for what it is rather than chasing trends or numbers. Every change made has been intentional, keeping the car true to its character and purpose.

Being part of Growl Racing Club has made the experience even better. It’s a group that genuinely appreciates cars for their sound, presence, and individuality, not just how much power they make. The community, the meets, and the shared passion all play a big part in why I enjoy the car as much as I do. 

My passion for cars has always been about the experience, the sound when it fires up, the way it looks sitting still, and the feeling of driving it when the moment’s right. This RS3 fits that perfectly. It’s not about being the fastest; it’s about enjoying the car, respecting the platform, and building something I’m proud of every time I open the garage.

TIM McDONALD

2006 PORSCHE CAYENNE 4.5V8

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
I have loved cars, bikes and boats since I can remember

What was the first car you ever owned?
Ford Laser TX3 then the turbo AWD TX3.  I wanted one since the first day I saw one! 

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
Lamborghini and I'd love to design the body kit with LIB WALK

The Build

Tell us about your Porsche and your other rides: 

I've worked on the standard stuff for now - exhaust, hiflow air, lowering links they trick the computer to think it's sitting at standard height, so the air suspension doesn't try raising it back up, throttle controller.  It's hard to find anyone to work on it so I just do everything myself.  

I had my 1st Cayenne for seven years.  My 2nd Cayenne for one year.  My TT I've had for six months.  My 1988 Bike for six months and the Ninja I have owned for two months.  

Why the Porsche?

I have two Cayennes, the second one I bought was supposed to be seized but when I pulled the motor down to rebuild, it was just the starter motor was seized in the outward position.  This obviously didn't let the flywheel spin when manually trying to turn the motor.  So, I got a bargain and now I have two. 

I have an Audi TT 1st Gen and 2 Bikes to play with for now.  I'm buying, repairing and selling in my spare time which is rare these days. 

Where does this car spend most of its time?

My second Porsche is my daily for now.  I don't like driving it too much though as it's just under 100k.  I want to keep them down.  I am halfway through the  interior build.  Once it's done, I'll have it re introduced to the Growl members.  

Challenges & lessons learned

No challenges with the Porsche.  I’m just about to rebuild the TT.  I’m just doing my homework on the forged internals, lots of suppliers for the 1.8t motor I’ll be looking for years.  Ultimately, I would like to drop in a 2.5 Audi S3 motor and components but might be a bit pricey.  I want to look into it a bit more before making a decision.  I can’t wait too long though as I’ve already pulled the motor out and stripped it down for cleaning 🤷‍♂️🤦‍♂️

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

I like what Growl is doing to get people together that have a passion for cars.  I may be getting older, but not many people in my circle have the same mentality as myself - everyone keeps asking why I spend the money and time on my cars boats and bikes?  It’s the feeling I get once it’s completed.  The calmness I get when it’s looking and sounding perfect inside and out.  The way people look at what I built. 

It just feels good learning about the car and knowing I’ve done everything from the mechanics to the styling, the upholstery, the paint; there’s not really anything I farm out anymore.  I do however ask for guidance and opinions and 'how do I do this and how do I do that' and 'what the hell does that do'.  I’m always up for learning new things. 

I’m looking forward to seeing more cars and reading about their builds through your site/page cheers fellas 🤙

AARON WILLIAMS

BMW F80 M3

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
Cars for me came from when I was in high school and got my license, from there the addiction just feed. As a group of car mad friends we would go to Autosalon, Jamboree & Powercruise. Then when I got my licence it just fueled even more from there.

What was the first car you ever owned?
R33 gtst & Mirage

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
Probably a 2 part answer: 1. Lamborghini svj with a gintani exhaust, for me this is the pinnacle of Italian design and my god that sound. 2. R34 gtr vspecii nur in silica breath. Again for me it the best that the Japanese market gave the world and I’d build it to be my ultimate gtr dream, built motor, single turbo and 1000hp. But on the outside looking tastefully simple, carbon & perfect fitting volk gt-c wheels. But I would love to do a restoration of a E type jag or 65 mustang fastback.

The Build

Tell us about your BMW

I've owned it for three years.  Nearly everything has been done bar the turbo and engine build, it has the full stage 2 bolt ons with e85. The wheels have been the biggest project to make work, custom sizing the BBS LMR wheels was expensive exercise to ensure they just right. Specs set from BBS themselves weren’t what I envisioned so making them be the best they could was the way to go.

Externally I’ve added carbon fibre to give a more aggressive look, when the front lip and gts hood went on the front was a totally different look to the day I took delivery. All mods have been fitted by myself and being a qualified mechanic, I take ultimate pride and doing my own work. But as I’ve gotten older, I have reached out to the great guys over at Emporium Performance to do the crank hub and diff upgrades as these jobs on your back aren’t what I want to do anymore lol.

Does it have a nickname?

The GOTIME plates gets used a bit haha.

Why this car?

The M3 was bought to be a car that can do it all. Previously having a few GTR’s that I would only drive on the odd occasion, I wanted a car that could put the kids in the back and still have all the fun and enjoyment - with euro car flare. I’d had a few euro daily cars like Golf R & Focus RS but the M cars were definitely on the radar as that 'do it all' car.

Where does this car spend most of its time?

Atm the garage, I love the car to much to daily anymore. But I really enjoy cruising out to a car meet, give a few pulls and head home. I’ve done 2 sprints sessions with it and it’s amazing to drive but I tend to lean to the mechanical sympathy side nowadays lol\

Challenges & lessons learned

I strongly believe in, a poor man pays twice. Build / buy what you really want & do what you can to afford it. Over the last 20 odd years of cars / bike and modifying them if I just bought the right part first, I would have spent far less.

With the M3 I don’t have any regrets on what I’ve done to it, but if I only waited to find a really nice individual colour to begin with that might have been something cool but the black hits just right.

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

Being within the car community for such a long time it’s great to see how in Brisbane our car community has changed.  From humble days of trying to turn a Mitsubishi Mirage into an absolute showstopper at Autosalon (that some people nowadays would laugh at). To the cars that we have of today where a nine second car isn’t really the king anymore.

Our scene has always been made up of enthusiasts that put the money and work into their cars and take pride in sharing that same passion with other people.  I feel this will probably will never really change (well hopefully not).   My time with Own the M3 community has been amazing.  The owners, we all share the same passion in building what we really want and the fact that we can show them at a Cars And Coffee At 4 am on a Saturday morning or display them at a GROWL show is what I really enjoy.

Also with the addition of social media, it has led to meeting some amazing photographers/videographers with this car that has been great and a lot of friendships have been formed around it.  The thing I love the most is the talent and being able to capture the car in different environments and have lasting memories.

From what we had in the early days to what we have now I really look forward to what 2026 and beyond will be.

MITCHELL BATTELLEY

2012 FG F6 FALCON

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
Through my father

What was the first car you ever owned?
NA FG Falcon

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?

Same car I have now, just got even crazier with it!

The Build

Tell us about your FALCON

I've owned it for six years.  All of the work has been done by Precision Performance and Mechanical.

Why this car?

I have always liked FG Falcons since I was a teenager.  I always wanted an F6.  It's the ultimate one to won if you can.  I'm just lucky I bought mine before they went crazy expensive. 

Where does this car spend most of its time?

Car meets, weekend driving and track meets! 

jimmy gould 

1993 NISSAN SKYLINE GTS-T R33

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
My dad was a mechanic for Jaguar and would always be tinkering with cars at home which got me interested in cars, then as I got a little older my brother and all his footy mates had their cars they would do up in the mid 90's. That's when the bug bit hard and it's been constant ever since. 

What was the first car you ever owned?
1979 VB Commodore SL/E... thing was in pristine condition and at the time cost me a carton of rum cans

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
It would have to be a TOP SECRET built GTR or a Ferrari 458 Italia

The Build

Tell us about your Skyline 

I have owned it for almost five years.  

Fully built RB25/30 - engine was measured & assembled by myself.  Swifty's Race Engines built RB25 Head with O/S valves and pocket porting done / bottom end has had the machining work done by PLR in Brendale/ Forged pistons / rods / billet spool crank / billet main caps & girdle / all required supporting mods - too many to list.  Fully built TH400 by Mark at OutCast Garage / 4500rpm Dominator converter.  Wiring done by Adam at GenWired.  Fab work by Brendan at Elite Exhausts

Why this car?

I had an R33 when I was 18 and life got in the way leading me to selling it. Hearing my dad always talk about his E49 R/T Charger and how he wished he never sold it made me want another R33 so I could hand down the passion to my kids later on.

Where does this car spend most of its time?

At the moment I can't take it back to the drags until it gets tech'd so it's seen more street driving than anything else. Usually, it sees all duties when the time is available.

Does it have a nickname?

Money Pit ... Regret ... Sh*tbox .... Nah, my wife Sam and I call her Goldie due to the colour

Challenges & lessons learned

Every single step along the engine build was a challenge and learning curve, I hurt 3 engines in the process of the build and each time would learn that little bit more and more. Would have been immensely cheaper sending it to an engine builder, but I'm too stubborn and never give up on something once I start. 

My advice for anyone taking on this type of build, do your research and measure everything then measure it again!

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

Chris and all the people at Growl are exactly what the Brisbane car scene needed.  I take my hat off to the countless hours spent organising events and cruises for everyone to enjoy and Chris asks for nothing in return.

STEVEN BEACH

1978 MAZDA 808

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
When I was an apprentice, a mate was building a HQ Ute. So, we did a RB25 engine conversion in a VL and it all went from there.

What was the first car you ever owned?
Holden commodore VL sedan

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
Mazda RX3 sedan or Holden VL sedan

The Build

Tell us about your Mazda
I've owned it now for thirteen years.  I pretty much do most of the work myself on the car. I've learnt a lot along the way. Proboost Performance built me a bullet proof 13B BPT block for my setup and does all the tuning on my car to keep it alive. Also, Grant has taught me and helped me a lot over the years.

Why this car?

I always wanted to buy a rx3/808 sedan after my rx3 coupe I had back in the 2000s.  I saw this one up for sale. Went had a look at it.  All the stars had lined up at the time. Boom she was coming home with me!!

Where does this car spend most of its time?

Car meets and the track

Does it have a nickname?

Shitbox.  Because it’s nothing special.  It’s not a show car or fast street or drag car. When it breaks that’s what it gets called in the shed lol

Challenges & lessons learned
Work with in your budget. I sure have one lol. Work with one person you trust. Mixed comments can make you judge everything.  No regrets at this stage and no one tell me how’s it’s done.

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

I brought this car to run a 10s passes and street cruise it. When I got Proboost to build the engine for me he said I’ll help you run that 10. 1 year later I ran my first 10 and never looked back. Still to this day I have held the car back to a 10.5 car as I street drive it with my family.

When I heard about the Growl racing group I watched it for a while. I liked the diversity of cars and the events that were happening. So, I decided to involve the business, Harts. Growl racing has been good for me meeting like-minded people and have helped Harts to grow along the way.

brandon slattery

nissan silvia s13

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
Car games on Playstation and Fast and Furious as a kid. 

What was the first car you ever owned?
2000 Hyundai Accent

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
Nissan Skyline R34 GTR 

The Build

Tell us about your Silvia
I've owned the car for twelve years.  With almost nothing left untouched the car has been extensively modified over the years of owning it. Dm me and I can send you a list if you want (Growl Racing). 

Shoutout to: MCA suspension for sponsoring the coil over suspension; Madoc Tuning; Wire Lab; Willman Fabrication; Hocks Mod Shop;  Glossworks Detail Lab; AR Auto Detailing.

Why this car?

After my Hyundai being my first car. I was able to buy a new car which was a 1996 BMW 323 e36 kitted with all M3 gear for $3000. I unfortunately had an accident, and the BMW was written off. Had a payout of $7500 and then went and bought the Nissan Silvia S13 for $6300 from a guy who was painting and flipping cars on the Gold Coast.

Where does this car spend most of its time?

I try to drive it whenever time permits.  As much as I can of a weekend.  Living in Toowoomba I travel a decent amount in the car over the years to attend car meets and events.  Becoming somewhat of a show car but also gets driven! 

Challenges & lessons learned

One thing I will always say is; if you can buy new parts do it!  I have bought a lot of secondhand parts over the time and end up having to replace them with new anyway - spending more money!   

There is so much information on the internet these days. Everything is at your fingertips to go online and research for what you are chasing in your build.

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

The journey with this car has led me to some absolutely beautiful places that I have travelled to. Meeting so many amazing people along the way. It's always a great time going out to events and meeting new faces and sharing adventures with all who are likeminded.

Very thankful for the opportunities I have received along the way and blessed to be a part of this community.

BRETT PAIGE

1967 FORD ZA FAIRLANE

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
Grew up around cars and engines my whole life

What was the first car you ever owned?
Funnily enough, the first car I owned is this Fairlane.  I got it when I was 16 and built it in two weekends.  It was my first car and daily for a few years. 

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
Another Fairlane but full chassis car

The Build

Tell us about your Fairlane
It's a 340ci 8.2 deck blown injected Windsor - all built at home by me and my Dad and Brother.  The car has had a lot of different engine combos; from standard 289 Windsor to a 434ci Clevor to the Blown Windsor that it has now.  The gearbox is a Reid case TH400 with a circle d bolt together converter - all built by Mark at Outcast Automotive.  I can't thank him enough for his help.  The rear end is a full floating 9" with Gazzard Bros. Anti roll bar, split monos, sliders and double adjustable shocks, notched chassis rails springs moved inward - all done by Nick and the team at Radial Fabrication.

Why this car?

It was my neighbor's car.  He lived up the road as a kid and then he moved away.  We didn't see it for a while - then one day he came to my parents and asked if we wanted to buy it.  It had been sitting under a mango tree for years and was fairly gutted out.  But, for the sum of $100 we couldn't say no!  Brought it home and it sat around for a while ... then two weeks before I got my licence, we gave it a quick paint job and wrecked another Fairlane out for the drive line then had it on the road. 

Where does this car spend most of its time?

Originally it was my daily driver.  Now it sleeps in the shed during the week and comes out to party on the weekends.  From street cruising, racing and burnouts - it does it all! 

Challenges & lessons learned

Not going TH400 in the beginning with the blown combo I persisted with the C4 for years blowing countless up

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

I have raced the growl no prep days in both the Fairlane and my XD Ute.  The days have the best atmosphere with some very good racing.  Can't wait for the next one!

KRISH CHETTY

Nissan Skyline GT-R R32

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
My father was a mechanic in Fiji so he would bring home cars like the Datsun 1200, Toyota KE30 etc and when he would drive, I would sit passenger and change the gears. When he would work on cars, I would pass him his tools and slowly, I did more and more and here we are today. Having owned 98 cars and 5 bikes 🫣

What was the first car you ever owned?
1989 BMW E30

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
Ultimate makes it very hard as I have so many! This is tough so I’m going with an R32 GT-R built by Garage Active in Japan but with the R34 Getrag manual instead of sequential.

The Build

Tell us about your Nissan Skyline GT-R R32
500hp on 18psi. Single turbo and support mods, bigger injectors, Link G4x ECU, stronger clutch, all adjustable suspension arms etc so pretty basic until budget allows to do a forge setup as I’d like to go with 650hp at all four and redline at 10,250 👀

How long have you owned it?
Around 3 years.

Where does this car spend most of its time?
Spends most of its time at a United service station getting E85!

Challenges & lessons learned
Next time, I’ll save up for longer and get a much higher spec coilovers by HKS or Ohlins instead of the more common ones as they might be budget friendly, but they don’t last and can easily leak. ALSO, the suspension arms will likely end up being Ikeya or Nismo next time as the current ones are just not built to last.

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

I don’t have to drive an GT-R. I would be just as happy driving any of my previous R34’s, EVOs, E30’s, 180SX’s, Datsun 1200 Ute etc. because the car you have NEEDS to be for you. You are the driver and if that car makes you happy, that’s the car for you.

Growl Racing has been absolutely killing it lately, and it’s been a privilege to be part of the Performance Pulse Expo events from the start. What they’ve built in SEQ is so much more than just a car club; they’ve created a massive, high-energy community where everyone feels welcome, from the hardcore builds to the family fans. By putting on world-class shows at the Brisbane Showgrounds and supporting the local scene through things like club rego and track days, Chris and the team have truly raised the bar for Australian car culture. They’ve been amazing to work with, and it’s great to see a group that genuinely cares about the people as much as the cars, bringing the whole community together like one big family.

FRANK TESTA

2009 Ford Falcon FG XR6 Turbo

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
My dad! He worked for Ford and I grew up around classic Falcons. Watching Bathurst as far back as I can remember!

What was the first car you ever owned?
FG XR6 Sedan

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
I am genuinely happy and enjoy what I have, but a GT40 or Vermillion Fire XY GT are on the list!

The Build

Tell us about your FG XR6 Turbo

Basic rundown of the car is Atomic Engine, Powerglide, Haltech, E85, 800hp.

Tuned by Forced Performance, Fabrication, Haltech and Powerglide Conversion by Matthew Hollis, Gearbox by Gregory Brooks, MCA Suspension.

Ultimately, the car has been built at home in dad’s shed with help from the right people!

How long have you owned it?

8 years. 

Why this car?

As a kid I knew my first car had to be a Dash Green FG. It was a realistic thing to work towards and fast forward 11 years this is still the car and colour I want. I paid $9000 for my first FG in 2015 which I kept until 2018 when I sold it to purchase the one I have now. Time flies!

Where does this car spend most of its time?
These days mostly track events. This is where I can drive the car the way I want and properly enjoy it. It is hard to turn down the opportunity to be part of the odd show and shine too!

Challenges & lessons learned

Enjoy the ride and love every moment. Build for you, the way you want.

I don’t regret anything about this car.

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

Enjoy being part of greatest club in QLD!

CODY HUNT

2009 HSV CLUBSPORT TOURER

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
All thanks to my old man 💪 An ex-president of the rebel car club seen me amongst cars at a young age 🙏

What was the first car you ever owned?
VK Commodore

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
I guess next step would be a Promod 🙏

The Build

Tell us about your Clubsport

Original build was performed by ASG MOTORSPORTS - home of the turbo LS, and still returns to its home ASG for all major works 💪💪

Maintenance performed by myself at OZTORQUE

How long have you owned it?

4 years now

Why this car?

Originally, I was building a Maloo to resemble my good mate Ritchie's wagon... after much deliberation and weighing up build costs to finish the Maloo it made sense to just purchase the wagon off of him 🙏

Does your car have a Nickname? 

"Urluzn" - I just came across the plates and thought they suited perfectly 💪

Where does this car spend most of its time?

Loves a good No Prep session and has had some good fun with dynos!

Awards and Achievements:

• Summernats Horsepower Heroes: Winner twice – once outright and once in the Boosted8 class.

• Horsepower Hero: Overall 4th winner of all time with 1,953 hp.

• Rockynats: Current record holder.

Challenges & lessons learned

NO REGRETS 💪💪

Full send don't let nothing stop you 🙏

The sky is the limit 🔥🔥🔥

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

Over the years, we’ve taken the wagon all over Australia, from racing and dyno competitions to show-and-shines, and even our very own beloved Performance Pulse Expo that our besty Mr. MORRIS + FAMILY +CO put on every year for the car community 😘

For that legends 🙏 we thank you.  More than glad to be a part of the GROWL COMMUNITY since day 1, and my family will continue to do so till days end 💪

MAX CLARKE

2008 FG Falcon XR8 Ute

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
Fast and furious movies!

What was the first car you ever owned?
Daihatsu Charade

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
Porsche GT3RS

The Build

Tell us about your XR8 Ute
During the Covid times in 2020 I had the opportunity to supercharge my engine.  I did this in the comfort of my garage and had the team at Real Dyno Performance check over the work and tune the vehicle.  This was filmed and displayed on YouTube in 2020!  Many shops like Harts Transmissions and Precision Performance & Mechanical have also worked their magic on the Ute over the years.

How long have you owned it?
11 years.

Why this car?

Grew up in a Ford family, and when this model was released in 2008, I knew I wanted to one day own this particular model in the V8 range.

Where does this car spend most of its time?
Car meets, track events and some Show & Shine events

Challenges & lessons learned
Most difficult was putting a driveline package together to suit the power and its use.

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

This car has had an incredible journey from the day I got it in 2015. Now, it’s a supercharged 6-speed manual with 620 hp - so much fun! 

Being part of the Growl Racing Club and surrounded by like-minded enthusiasts just makes it that much more enjoyable.

BRODIE GLENDINNING

1990 Nissan 300zx

THE Story

How did your interest in cars begin?
My Father

What was the first car you ever owned?
My 1990 Nissan 300zx 

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
Bagged 64 Impala or a bagged Lambo.  Ha ha, we can dream right?!?!

The Build

Tell us about your 300zx 

Physically everything has been modified.  Full custom interior, Ford 9" rear end, full back half with cage, 383 SB Chev with a 98mm turbo.  Everything you see is custom to the vehicle. 

How long have you owned it?

13 years. 

Why this car?

My parents actually picked it.  They bought it for me when I was 13 as a project for me and Dad to do.  Dad has always said if there was ever an import he would own, it would be a 300zx ... so here we are! 

Does your car have a Nickname? 

I got a set of number plates for my 16th birthday, being ZEE300.  Ever since we've always called it Zee. 

Where does this car spend most of its time?

A bit of everything.  Shed pony, set up on show at events or being flogged at track days! 

Challenges & lessons learned

I don't regret a single thing.  The memories and love I have for the car, I'll never ever regret.

DRIVER'S PHILOSOPHY

My Thoughts

The car means the world to me, and being able to show it off is a reflection of both me and my Dad. When people say they love it or that it looks sick, etc. it really ticks all the boxes for me. If I can pass that passion on to other kids and families, I just want to keep the idea alive of kids working on cars with their Dads.

Chris Morris

1981 TF Cortina

The Story

What car do you drive, and how long have you owned it?
1981 TF Cortina — I’ve had this car for over 12 years.

What made you choose this car?
I’ve always loved the TF model Cortinas.

What was the first car you ever owned?
Nissan Bluebird TRX.

What would your ultimate dream car / dream build be?
My dream car is an XY GT.

The Build

What mods have you done? Any favourite features or custom touches?
FG XR6 Turbo built motor, G35 1050 turbo, Powerglide transmission, BorgWarner Truetrac diff.

What type of event is your favourite in this car?
Love all track events and just cruising with mates. Growing to love the Growl No Prep Battle — running 10.5 @ 147mph.

Driver’s Philosophy

My Thoughts

Growl started as a simple idea, built from a genuine love of cars and racing, and has grown into something far bigger than I ever imagined. What makes it special isn’t just the events or the builds, it’s the people. The support, passion, and sense of community from everyone involved has turned Growl into what it is today. Seeing it grow through shared experiences, friendships, and a common love for the scene is something I’m incredibly proud of, and it’s all thanks to the people who continue to show up, support each other, and be part of the journey.

AMANDA MORRIS

2006 FPV MKii TYPHOON

The Story

What car do you drive, and how long have you owned it?
2006 FPV MKII Typhoon.  I owned her for 8 years - then regretfully traded her for the current GT.

What made you choose this car?
It was a waiting game for this car to come up for sale.  Definitely love at first drive! 

What was the first car you ever owned?
1985 Peugeot 505 GTI Executive Sedan - my first love! 

The Build

What mods have you done? Any favourite features or custom touches?
Absolutely stock until the day I sold her. 

What type of event is your favourite in this car?
Just cruising the Coast - was my daily and my dog was always riding shotgun!