Vale Tom Williams

Motorcycling Australia and the ASBK Management Team are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of one of the country’s leading motorcycle racing officials, Tom Williams.

After years of officiating experience, Tom was at the forefront of ensuring successful, fair and safe motorcycle competition for everyone.

Over the last two decades, Tom’s knowledge and deft decision-making skills were channelled into the Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) where he began as Clerk of Course before being promoted to ASBK Race Director – heading up a team of dedicated volunteer officials, marshals who managed a massive event workload and were the first to arrive at the circuit and the last to leave.

Tom also held the exclusive FIM ‘Superlicence’ status, which also saw him rise to the role of one of the Clerks of Course of Australian WorldSBK and MotoGP rounds and attending FIM training in Geneva, Switzerland – joining other international officials from around the world.

All that knowledge ensured that ASBK was always in the best hands, and Tom led a team where critical decisions were made in the blink of an eye – but it was one that Tom took on in an ice-cool, measured demeanour. His position of responsibility demanded nothing less.

Riders in the ASBK paddock were often subjected to ‘no-nonsense’ chats with Tom about adhering to the rules, but he did have a gentle side: not every misdemeanour was met with a sanction but instead a chance for reflection and not making the same mistake again.

Tom’s time in motorcycle sport over many decades started as a grid marshal for local Queensland-based races, then climbing through the ranks of local, state and national races before reaching the top job for ASBK. However, Tom was not just an official, he enjoyed motorcycle riding, track days and the occasional local race in his younger years. Tom was known as a proud and passionate Ducati owner and Ducati fan.

Tom’s ASBK family meant the world to him and, after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease earlier this year, he got to say a final farewell to the paddock at the final round of the 2026 ASBK Championship at Queensland Raceway on June 27. It was an outing that brought him immense joy.

Tom passed away on Thursday, July 9, surrounded by his family. He was 69.

To honour his memory, Tom’s family have set up a FightMND page where you can donate vital funds that will go towards finding a cure. Donations can be made by clicking on the link here.

RIP Tom RIP and Mr Race Director.