By Darryl Maslin – President, NZRCA
Hey racers,
Welcome to From the Big Chair — your monthly update on all things RC from the NZRCA Executive.
Each month, we’ll keep you up to date with events here in New Zealand and overseas, highlight upcoming initiatives, and share any changes that could benefit clubs and racers across the country.
In October, the NZRCA held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) — bringing a bit of a changing of the guard within the Executive team. Some long-serving members have stepped aside, while a few fresh faces have come on board.
Matthew Banks
After 11 years of tireless service, Matt has decided to step back from his long-standing Executive duties. His leadership and deep understanding of the NZRCA rule book have helped lay the groundwork for a consistent and professional approach to racing across all classes.
Luckily, Matt isn’t going far — he’ll continue to support the Executive as Health & Safety Officer.
Luke Prattley
Luke has served as EP Off-Road Technical Officer for several years, joining the Executive at just 19 years old. He’s represented New Zealand at three World Championships, including serving as Team Captain for his most recent campaign.
Luke’s passion and experience have been invaluable, and while he’s stepping away to take up a once-in-a-lifetime overseas opportunity, we hope to see him trackside again somewhere in the world.
Logan Toia
Taking on the EP Off-Road Technical Officer role, Logan brings proven racing pedigree and a fresh perspective as part of the next generation of NZ racers.
Grant McEwan
From Christchurch, Grant steps into the EP On-Road Technical Officer position (previously held by me). With decades of racing experience and countless 1/10 and 1/8 scale national events under his belt, Grant’s technical expertise will be a major asset.
John Fitness
Joining us as Secretary, John’s enthusiasm for the sport is infectious — and with his son Matthew already showing serious pace at the track, it’s clear RC racing is a family affair.
Welcome aboard, team! 👏
The NZRCA website has been updated to reflect these role changes.
We’re also setting up new official Executive email addresses to improve communication with members. Once these are live, we’ll share details with all clubs.
Voting is now open for the five remits passed during the recent AGM.
This is your chance as a licensed NZRCA member to help shape the direction of our sport — please take a moment to read and vote on each proposal.
During the EP Off-Road World Championships, we shared daily video updates with our Kiwi team.
The response was incredible — over 40 000 page views across the 10-day event and our community has grown to 1 952 followers!
We’d love to keep that momentum rolling.
Clubs — please share your event results, race reports, photos, or short videos on the NZRCA Facebook page.
Let’s keep telling the story of New Zealand RC racing together.
Need a hand crafting your post?
Our Publicity Officer, Mathew Spackman, can assist with editing or polishing your reports before they go live.
Thanks everyone — and as always, see you at the track!
Darryl Maslin
President – New Zealand Radio Control Car Association
