Classic Adelaide Rally 2009

Pictured: Driver Gary Tierney, and co-driver David Carra - 1974 Porsche 911RS

VALE Gary Tierney, David Carra, 19.11.2009

Friends and supporters are invited to submit tributes and recollections about driver Gary Tierney and co-driver David Carra, who lost their lives in a rally accident on Thursday 19 November 2009.

(Classic Adelaide reserves the right to reject or edit submissions.)

Email your tribute to: reception@silverstoneevents.com

Funeral Details:

Gary Tierney
Friday 27th Nov 1PM
St Michaels Uniting Church
120 Collins Street
Melbourne

David Carra
Monday 30th Nov 2PM
Leonda by the Yarra
2 Wallen Road
Hawthorn

Date: Monday, 30 November 2009 11:37 AM

I remember that when I joined the Monash Sporting Car Club, David was one of the legends, living the life that everyone else was dreaming about, a larrikin but always very friendly and helpful. His stories of driving a combi around the Nurburgring, going to Le Mans, and later as a mechanic for Mitsubishi and Subaru WRC teams were inspirational. I remember each year when we'd go to the Rally Oz or NZ, we'd run in to him, and be in awe of what he'd been upto. These memories are of great times. Lets remember that passion he had and created in other people.

Richard Eustace

David

I had the privilege of working with you from 1988 to 1992 at Ralliart Australia Sydney doing Asian Pacific and WRC Events. They were good times with a good team, we worked hard but had fun as well. I remember in Thailand we went Go Carting and who got wet!!! And the Malaysian story can wait!! Though it's been a while Good friends are never forgotten.
Rest in Peace My friend

Paul Beaston {Pommie Paul}

Date: Monday, 30 November 2009 11:38 AM

The motorsport community mourns the loss of two of its own, and our thoughts and condolences go to the families of Gary and David. We hope they draw strength and support over the coming difficult days from the heartfelt messages and tributes from those of us touched by this tragedy.

Craig Hunt
RSR Classics

Date: Thursday, 26 November 2009 2:56 PM - Gary & David

I am still trying to come to terms with this terrible loss.

Gary was a great mate and I had the pleasure on many occasions to share dinners, drinks and laughs with him.

David was one of the nicest guys I had ever met. They both loved this sport with such a passion it was devastating news to hear that they had both been taken from us.

My thoughts and my condolences to their families and their loved ones.

Ian Wilson

Date: 24/11/2009 19:25 - Gary & David

To Louise & Mark Tierney, Jennifer Carra and their Families,

On the behalf of the team at Targa Tasmania, I'd like to express our deepest sympathies.

Gary & David were much loved by everyone and extremely passionate about our amazing form of motor sport.

They will be sadly missed by all Targa competitors.

Yours Sincerely

Mark Perry | Director - Targa Events

Date: Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:37

I had the pleasure of meeting Gary, David and the team at Targa West in August and I was looking forward to catch up with them again at Classic Adelaide. I was fortunate enough to briefly chat to Gary before the cars set off for the day on Thursday.
Gary struck me as a nice guy, a serious competitor in the spirit of the event who always had the time to say hello and have a chat.

Events like this serve to remind us of the seriousness nature of our passion, however no words could possibly describe the loss their families and close friends must be feeling at this time.

My thoughts go out to the families and close friends of both Gary & David in this time of grief.

A fellow competitor

Paul Moltoni

Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 16:39 - Tribute To David

David,

Your personality was larger than life. Always with a smile on your face, finding the best of any situation. Whether you were working on a car, co-driving, or sitting at the bar, there was always a funny story to be told. You raised my spirits, when things were tough, with that cheeky grin and never gave up.

One of the best mechanics I have ever known.

I was privileged to have known you, but honoured to call you friend.

Karl Francis

Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:55 - Davd Carra - tribute Classic Adelaide

It was saddening to hear about Mr D Carra, David Carra, on the weekend.

Of the fantastic people I mucked around with in my "younger" days he was perhaps the most colourful, the most naughty and certainly the biggest larrikin of the lot.

And we all loved his company and knew him to be a mate, a very honest and trustworthy mate of the best kind.

I picture his father, Alan Carra - the Plumbing business man. I'd bet Alan was a photocopy of David in his youth. I know how proud Alan would be to have been able to see David in recent years, still fanging about in a Rally car - getting down and dirty changing the diff, swinging hammers to straighten bent struts, pinching brake lines with pliers so he could get to the stage end with One brake only (and probably to the finish in the same state of non-control).

Who can remember that car re-shelling exercise, all hands on, peeling out the roof lining and finding "that message" srawled across the inside of the roof - Dave, you've done it again!

Priceless.

I wonder where that great P510 of his has ended up - anyone know? Wherever its got to I hope the owner realises what a piece of history they have, and how much David loved that part of his life, as he did all his life.

Remember the party at the beach house, the (practice) farm up near Yea and the Spa bath at Mum & Dads that eventful night. Perhaps the food fight at the chinese - no doubt one of many - all well remembered - with a smile.

News item:
Andrew Carra last night said his brother had worked for international world rally teams as a mechanic and had devoted his life to motor sport since the 1980s.

"He knew the risks and that was his life," he said.

"Dave absolutely loved his rallying. Everyone has to jump off this life at some stage and he did it doing what he absolutely loved.

"We're obviously very proud of David and what he achieved."

and didn't he love Ralliart . . . and his Datto !

I've posted the below @ the below link:

David, you were always one of the bestest Larrikin mates a bloke could ever want for, loving to your parents and your datto 1600 to the end. 2 great brothers meant 3 of you into motorsport and sadly its you whose left your mark. The donuts, the practice days at the farm, the beach, the food fights - Sprintski with all your mates from Monash Sporting Car Club we'll always remember you mate. Your father Alan would be so proud of you, a mate of the very best and thats exactly how I remember you.
As your elder bro said - "you loved rallying" and thats an understatement - you lived it David !.

All the best David Carra - greatly loved always and sadly missed by all.
Dave Bird (aka Dodji Bros mid 1970's) "

http://www.news.com.au/story/0,27574,26375170-421,00.html

http://home.vicnet.net.au/~mscc/mscchome.html

http://home.vicnet.net.au/~mscc/spinout.html

Kind regards,

David Bird

Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:00 - Gary & David

It almost seems incomprehensible.

We take so many precautions yet occasionally something goes terribly wrong.
Gary and David have probably competed in every Tarmac Rally I have ever entered, and more. It won't seem right without them.
Rest in Peace.

Condolences to both families and loved ones.

Ray Vandersee
Skelta

Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:45 - Gary Tierney and David Carra

The feeling of emptiness was overwhelming when I heard the tragic news of Gary and David. The generosity of Gary in both word and spirit perfectly complimented the enthusiastic and joyful good nature of David; no doubt all who new them will be having difficulty comprehending this enormous loss.

I last saw Gary only two weeks ago at Sandown, and even though busy in preparation for his on-track events, he nevertheless spontaneously made time for another of our enjoyable and wide ranging conversations. I will carry with me forever the fondest memories of these true gentlemen, passionate competitors and most importantly, dear friends.

Rex Broadbent

Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:19 - Gary & David

A terrible loss, Georgie and I are deeply saddened by the news.

A recent and fond memory of Gary & David was in Launceston at Targa Tasmania in April at a little Thai restaurant. Gary & David were cheekily commenting on Georgie’s tracksuit pants and messy hair, because she had hoped to sneak into a restaurant without anyone noticing, but they did! We have shared many fun times with them both at Rallies and with Gary and his family at social events.

We will miss their funny commentary at Rallies, their competitive spirit and their wonderful presence at the events. We will treasure the memories we have.

Our condolences to both families.

Drew & Georgie Jorgensen

Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:44 - Vale Gary Tierney and David Carra

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Gary and David. A loss to all and the Rally fraternity.

Organising Committee, Red Centre to Gold Coast Trial 2008 and the Classic Outback Trial 2009

Phil Rainer

Date: Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:07 - tribute

David

I sat in stunned disbelief when I read the news on the internet - I just could not believe what I was reading - I didn't want to believe what I was reading.

What you have achieved in rallying is testimony to your incredible professionalism and ability - firstly as service crew all around the world on the WRC for some of the great drivers of our time - Dunkerton, Bourne, McRae, Vatanen...

Then you turned that professionalism to co-driving on tarmac rallies in Australia and quickly achieved a reputation of being amongst the best around.

So I felt very privileged to have you service for me on events in Victoria - having you there made everything just run like clockwork on the day, no matter how much chaos I threw at you.

We are all going to miss you mate! Possum, Rodger and Colin will welcome you up there with open arms though as they will be wanting you to service for them again.

My thoughts go out to David and Gary's families at this terrible time.

Kent Bedford

Date: Sun, 22 Nov 2009 23:26 - Gary and David

David. There are no words to describe the empty feelings I have as one of my closest friends has been taken.

I first met David in 1989 as we both became works mechanics for Mitsubishi Ralliart in Sydney.
We were part of the service team who contested the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship and during the four years, we were in the same service vehicle together for every rally.

At the end of 1992 we both left Ralliart Australia with strong W.R.C. aspirations and in 1993 David had secured a position with Prodrive Subaru and myself with Ralliart Europe – Both of us now residing in the U.K.

Over the years we enjoyed several snow-skiing trips (and he was a great skier as well ) to Austria, France, and not forgetting Buller and Thredbo. David would always make time when in Perth to catch up with my family and I.

I’ll miss your Tommi Makinen impersonations on the phone !!

David was a true friend – a soul mate, will always be remembered and never forgotten.

Rest in Peace mate – the world is lesser without you.

My deepest condolences go out to the families of both David and Gary at this heartfelt time.

Graeme McKinley ( Perth WA )

Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:00 - Gary and David

It was with much shock I heard of the tragic loss of David and Gary last week. My heart goes out to their families and all friends in what is an extremely trying time.
Both Gary and David were held in very high esteem in our close knit rallying community, and they will be forever missed.

Kind regards,

Ben Wooster

Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:49

Hail Gary and David.
Two fine men taken from us doing what they loved best.
Farewell to a beautiful 911 Porsche as well.

Tony DuBois

Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:27 - Vale: Gary Tierney and David Carra

Our thoughts and condolences go out to the Tierney and Carra families during this difficult
time. We understand the passion these guys had and sadly the underlying risks that come with that passion.

Simon & Sue Evans
Evans Motorsport - ARC

Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:08:18 +1030 - Gary and David

Words just seem totally inadequate to express the loss we as Tarmac rally friends feel at this time. You guys were great competitors and friends. Our sport will be the poorer for your loss. Thanks for the memories. Miss you both.

Kind regards to your families Kevin and Val Weeks

Date: Sun, 22 Nov 2009 16:31 - Gary and David

Paul telephoned me with the devastating news, as he was on his way to the airport to fly overseas. We have been deeply saddened by this sudden and tragic event. I have lovely memories of all the boys endlessly discussing their various states of preparedness before each event, and many laughs were had at the dinners following, as they regaled stories of all their exploits, disappointments and triumphs.

On behalf of Paul, I would like to convey deepest condolences to Louise, Haydn and Mark, and also to the loved ones of David.

Liz and Paul Stuart

Date: Sun, 22 Nov 2009 11:13 - Gary and David

Total disbelief was my first reaction, to loose one of my closest mates and fellow rally competitor was almost too hard to bear. But as the days pass I am now recollecting all the great stories we shared and the fun we had doing all the rallies. From the early days in his cobra with Mark at Targa to the present in his beautiful Porsche. I know we will all miss him but our great memories we made will always bring him back.

Both Helen and I send our thoughts and love to Louise, Mark and Haydn.

I also would like to send our thoughts to Davids family, he was a true professional in his motorsport endeavours, we will miss him.

Greg Cook

Date: Sat, 21 Nov 2009 21:32 - Vale - Gary and David

As a previous competitor in Classic Adelaide and one that was lucky enough to walk away from 2 big accidents, I know personally the risks that we all take in pursuing our passion.

As a fellow competitor I remember the level of preparation and focus that these guys had and respected that and never thought that something so tragic could happen.

To the families of both Gary and David my deepest condolences and thoughts at this time.

Jon Williams
Driver TR6

Date: Sat, 21 Nov 2009 07:14 - My Thoughts

I would like to express my deepest sympathy and condolences to the family and friends of Gary Tierny and David Cara

I'm a motorsport competitor and car enthusiast Ive never met these two gentlemen but was so saddened to hear of the tragic accident

I'm sure they loved what they did and they were passionate about it.

Elias

WA

Date: Sat, 21 Nov 2009 21:50

David

I will miss you so very much........You were always there smiling at the end of every stage and I love the chats we’d have, so many laughs and memories shared together.
Xxxxxx

Always thinking of you, Bec #534
(Rebecca Crunkhorn)

Date: Sat, 21 Nov 2009 18:32 - Tribute to Gary Tierney and David Carra

To the families of Gary and David,

We enjoyed some wonderful Rallies together and I have great memories of some fun times.
Rally Tas- 2009 . they showed me the ropes and best restaurants in Burnie.

Targa West 2009- your car broke down in the Prologue and I lent you my car to Qualify. AND you beat me….

SA Road Rally Championships 2009 - David navigated for me and had a great time ,even the Recce was fun, we stayed down the beach house and got into a bottle of my best Red…

Never forgotten for their happy smiling faces and wonderful friendship.

Rest in Peace

Rob Black

Date: Sat, 21 Nov 2009 17:41 - Vale: Gary Tierney & David Carra

I first met Gary and Louise Tierney at the Three Peaks Rally back in 1994. The Tierney's competed in an AC Cobra in those early days and so did we, so Gary instantly befriended us and was so generous with his knowledge. It was Gary's enthusiasm that inspired both Hans and I to continue with our love of rallying.

My thoughts are with Louise and family in the difficult days ahead.

My condolences also to the Carra family.

Lee Ryan

Date: 21/11/2009 12:43

I had known David for many years, firstly as one of my Ralliart mechanics and of late as a fellow competitor. His happy disposition will always be remembered. Deepest sympathy to both David and Gary's families and friends.

Ross Dunkerton

David, I can't believe we sat on the tailgate of your ute last weekend in the service park at the Alpine Rally having a chat and a laugh. You used to call me "Mum" - you said it was because I used to look after you at events. Wish I could have done so this time. Will miss your beautiful smiling face. Condolences to Gary's family as well.

Lisa Dunkerton

Date: 21/11/2009 13:33 - Vale: Gary Tierney & David Carra

It was 1992 when Nerida and I did our very first rally, in the winning team with Louise and Gary.

This was the start of 17 years of so many good times, wining and dining, and many more rallies.

A terrible loss to us all, almost impossible to comprehend.

Much love and sympathy to Louise, Mark and Christie, Haydn and Jane, and also to Grattan and Caroline.

David Carra was one of the few brilliant co-drivers in tarmac rallying.

Always great company, a really nice guy.

Sadly missed by us all. Our deepest condolences to his family.

David we will always treasure the old Coralba trip meter you left us in the GTR

Jeff and Nerida Beable and family.

Date: Sat, 21 Nov 2009 07:46 - Gary Tierney & David Carra

To Louise, Mark, Hayden, Christie and Jane, and the Carra family,

We are so saddened and shocked by the loss of both Gary and David.

We will Gary’s beaming smile & sense of humour, his great company and friendship.

Motorsport enabled our two families to meet and create the friendship and memories that we have today.

He truly was one of the great guys of the world, and we along with everyone else that knew him, will miss him forever.

All of our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this most difficult and sad time.

We will miss you boys. Rest in peace.

Stewart & Alex Webster (Car 296) & Ingrid, Stephanie and Sonya Webster.

Date: Sat, 21 Nov 2009 07:53 - So Sorry

I was so saddened to hear of the tragic accident as I arrived home Thursday evening; I had spoken to the guys at the end of Special Stage 3 that day (I was Stage 3 Safety Officer). They were on a high, telling me what a great stretch of road that stage had been. My thoughts go out to the family and friends of Gary and David. It’s a terrible loss.

Richard Bowden
Senior Hygienist/Director
Safe Services Pty Ltd

Date: 20/11/2009 20:52 - May they rest in what they loved .....

To the families of Gary and David all the best in these hours and days, but they did what they did and enjoyed, i can remember Gary in the Duttons Grand Prix days in his beloved Ford Mustang and being introduced to him personally by Tim Lynas at Strahan in 2008 Targa, and he did what i have enjoyed doing since the early 70's, competing at what we all did best, Motorsport at its best at whatever level we excelled at.

Mal Sinfield ...................................................

Date: 20/11/2009 20:59 - For Gary and David

It must be 20 years since I first did Tour t'Adelaides with Gary and Louise, it is impossible to think days like those can never happen again.

I will cherish the memory of David Carra's face smilingly entering times onto my road card last weekend at the Alpine Rally.

Gary and David, thanks for the memories.

Kaye Kilsby

Date: 20/11/2009 23:23 - Vale - Gary and David

To the Families of Gary and David,

The Family of Classic Adelaide offer our heartfelt wishes to you at this time.

We all grieve the loss of competitors and friends.

And though I only ever shared the road with them and the joy of our common passion, now we must all share the pain of their passing.

Strength in memories.

Sympathies to you all.

Craig Williams

Nav. TR6

Date: Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:03

To the families of Gary and David.

Please take what you can from the guys really enjoying what they were doing at the time of this terrible tradgedy.

A fellow motorsport competitor who has never met these gentlemen but offers my deepest sympathy and condolences to you all.

Jeff Hogg
OPTI-Flex