Published: 21st May 2026, Boonah Showgrounds.
There are moments in life so heavy with heat and doubt. And then, out of nowhere, a single sentence from a legend changes your entire universe forever.
Back in 2024, the air in Boonah was hot. I was standing behind a row of stadium seats with my husband and our two year old daughter, setting up a gazebo over a single table. It was only the second time I’d ever set up a stall to sell my work. I had just poured my soul into publishing my very first speedway biography book, which had taken me 2 years to write all on my own.
I was a ghost in the paddock, nobody knew who Jocelyn Dare was. I truly believed nobody would look, it was that hot my balloons were popping.
Then, the dust kicked up and a miracle rolled in.
A vibrant red vintage car pulled up directly at the front of my table. The door opened and stepping out into the heat was none other than the legendary Midget racer, Blair Shepherd (99) and his son.
I invited them to stand under the shade. He wanted to know what my display was and I said, “I’m Ron Johnson’s youngest daughter and I self published a book about his life in the sport”.
The moment those words left my mouth, Blair’s face lit up with absolute, pure happiness. A lifetime of deep, cherished memories instantly rushed back into his eyes right there in the dirt. “I remember the big man”. He bought a book, we smiled for a photo and as I signed it, he looked at me and said: “I hope you succeed in your dreams and that you sell many copies!”
That small act of kindness from a person, an Australian Speedcar Champion gave me hope.
Not long after that hot day, Blair took his last breath and passed away. When I heard the news, the tears just came. I hadn’t known him for long only that brief, beautiful moment but the weight of his kindness stayed with me forever. In a world that can often feel so harsh, he chose to use his time to believe in my dreams.
A few years later, here I am running Nomad Dirt Culture, using my platform to give that exact same dream back to others. Miracles happen when those small acts of kindness are given. May you rest in peace, Blair. And thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for believing in me.
Was there someone who completely uplifted you trackside when you needed it most? Let’s honour them. Comment your stories below.
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