A coroner’s investigation has concluded that driver error was responsible for the tragic deaths of four competitors during the Targa Tasmania, a famous road rally event. The incidents unfolded in three separate crashes, with the first fatality occurring in 2021 when veteran driver Shane Navin’s 1979 Mazda RX-7 veered off course and crashed into a creek on wet terrain.
In 2022, a second tragic accident claimed the life of Anthony Seymour, whose Lotus Exige S Coupe crashed through a barrier and plummeted down an embankment on a challenging mountain section of the race.
Coroner Simon Cooper stated that exceeding speed limits and driving specialised racing vehicles contributed to the fatalities in all cases. He expressed concern over the appropriateness of racing cars designed for controlled tracks being used under varying conditions on public roads lacking adequate safety features.
Navin lost control of his vehicle in adverse conditions, resulting in his car rolling into a creek. Unfortunately, rescue efforts were delayed, with help taking over half an hour to arrive. Similarly, competitors Mundy and Seymour also experienced critical errors; Mundy was driving at a speed of 188.5 km/h and reportedly disregarded crucial instructions and warnings about the course, while Seymour reacted poorly to obstacles left by other drivers, ultimately losing control at 101 km/h.
The report noted that a lack of systems to report debris had previously been an issue in the event. In response to the fatalities, Targa Tasmania organisers have announced upcoming safety improvements and are shifting the event to a spring schedule. A comprehensive review has led to 94 recommendations being implemented, including adjustments to speed limits, course signage, and vehicle specifications.
During the investigation, it was revealed that the deceased men, all over the age of 59, were taking medications for various health issues, including heart disease and had recently dealt with COVID-19. Despite their experience in competitive racing, the coroner highlighted the importance of individual accountability, asserting that the competitors were aware of the risks and voluntarily chose to participate.
Targa Tasmania, set to return later this year, aims to incorporate these safety changes while ensuring that such tragedies do not recur in the future.