By Deanne Jeffers
SHEPPARTON’S own rev-head, Steve Edsell, is burning up the track and chasing a spot among Australia’s Top 10 burnout stars. Competing with his iconic 1977 Ford XC ute, known as SKDUTE, Edsell recently dominated four national burnout events, taking home first place each time and raking in about $35,000.
Two of these wins were in Adelaide at the new multi-million dollar Tailem Bend facility, one win in Wagga Wagga, NSW, and a fourth just two weeks ago at the Sydney Dragway.
Edsell’s journey with SKDUTE began when his dad gifted him the classic car as a teen. After extensive modifications to take it from streetcar to burnout machine, SKDUTE has roared to fame as a professional drag car, gathering a strong following online with thousands of fans and views.
SKDUTE’s motor was built by Brett Niddrie at BnR Engines in Melton, and Edsell’s burnout career has been supported by local businesses including Tatura’s Hussln Auto Detailing and Shepparton’s Fabrication and Techniques.
“Nothing is original, except maybe the guards and interior,” Edsell said, highlighting SKDUTE’s extensive upgrades, including roll cages and harnesses for safety. When asked if he ever takes it to car shows, he laughed, “This is a car built to work.”
Off the back of his four recent victories, next up Steve will compete at the Springnats Car Festival in Shepparton from November 22-24, aiming to cement his place in the national Top 10 and secure a ticket to Summernats, the grand finale of burnout shows, where he’ll vie for the highest-ever prize pool of $50,000.
Steve’s passion for burnouts was sparked at Springnats, where he attended his first event as a child with his mum. Now, after 18 years of participating, he eagerly awaits the event each year. With 22 years of experience and an unyielding love for the sport, Steve remains focused on perfecting his craft and pushing the limits of SKDUTE on the national stage.
