We have our series winner in Jarrad Filsell but for those mid pack, this race means a lot to ensure that they don’t have to take that risk in the qualifying series in February.

With one of the teammates Brett Loxton and Chris Coxhead favoured to get that all important top 20 there is a name that has the potential to sneak in from a current 22nd position.

Griffin Gardiner has had an adventurous season that has included multiple top 10 finishes amidst some poor results and nonstarters. Changing to a privateer mid-season he has found himself working at times with Jake Burton to get the most out of his ZB Commodore.
We spoke to Griffin before the final race.

Thanks for joining us, Griffin. After a tough season you have given yourself a chance to sneak into the top 20 late, what do you think your chances are?

It has definitely been an adventurous season, moving up and down the championship standings but I think I have a good shot at cracking the Top 20. There is a decent margin between Brett, Chris, and myself. However with proper preparation I think I can finish high enough to get the points I need.

What has been the season highlight for you, and do you think you can reproduce it at Phillip Island?

Detroit was definitely the highlight of the season so far. I didn't expect anything going into the round, with just over 1 hour Practice. I managed to Qualify 6th, race near the front all night and have some fun. I know where I need to be with the car to compete at the front, so getting there will be the focus for Phillip Island.

How important is it to you to make the coveted top 20?

Going into the season I was expecting to finish in the Top 10 and my early season form had me finishing there. Other factors have come into play, missing rounds and getting used to new equipment, which has taken longer than expected. I really want to avoid the qualifying series as there are plenty of quality drivers waiting in the wings to challenge and with only four rounds, anything can happen.

Finally, how have you seen the series in its debut year?

I have really enjoyed the series this year and overall I think it has been a step in the right direction for the Supercars community. The concept behind it is great and the people behind it have put in a lot of hardwork to get it going. At the end of the season I'm sure everyone will look back and be happy with how the inaugural season turned out.

Thanks for taking the time with us, we wish you all the best in the last round.