Triple Eight has unveiled a special one-off livery to be campaigned by Craig Lowndes at this weekend's CrownBet Darwin Triple Crown at Hidden Valley Raceway.
The #888 TeamVortex entry will carry a unique colour scheme featuring indigenous artwork as part of a tie up between Caltex and the Clontarf Foundation.
The Clontarf Foundation aims to improve the education, discipline, life skills, self-esteem and employment prospects of young Aboriginal men.
It will mark the second time Triple Eight has run a one-off look at Hidden Valley following its ‘Red Dust' charity scheme in 2008.
“I feel very special to be able to promote Caltex's ongoing partnership with the Clontarf Foundation through such an inspired design, and what better place to embrace the Aboriginal culture and pay tribute,” said Lowndes.
“As our first ever one-off team livery, I am pleased we could do something so creative and colourful. It is really going to stand out on the track.
“The Hidden Valley circuit is a special one for me; I claimed my 100th race win here last year, so I am excited to be back again and this time in some fresh new colours.”
Uncovered at Sanderson Middle School in Darwin, the livery was designed by local student and artist Daniel Thomson. The 14-year-old's artwork tells a story about his family fishing.
“The inspiration behind my artwork is fishing, as it is something I love doing,” said Thomson.
“The significance is that it is a big part of my family, connecting with each other, and we love eating Barramundi.
“It is pretty cool to be working with Craig Lowndes, who is one of the greatest drivers in history.
“I feel proud that I did this artwork for Caltex Australia as they support the Clontarf Foundation, who supports me with my schooling education.”
Lowndes will display the new livery on track for the first time in Friday's opening practice at 1125 local time.