McLaughlin Wins Race and Event in Nail-Biting Finish

Young Kiwi Scott McLaughlin kept his cool – despite being monstered by Craig Lowndes in closing laps – and has delivered Volvo’s first win.

There's a touch of history repeating at the event, McLaughlin having won the final race at the Formula One Rolex Australian Grand Prix last year.

"Amazing... the car's fantastic. I can't thank the boys enough," McLaughlin said. "The jandals are working today!"

Nissan’s Michael Caruso narrowly made the podium for the event and the final MSS Security Challenge race, taking third from Garth Tander when crossing the line by just 0.003sec.

While Shane van Gisbergen begun the race from pole position, he was mindful he needed a strong result to take out the event win, with double points on offer today.

He battled closely with fellow Kiwi and front row starter Fabian Coulthard, but dropped back through the field during the race, finishing an unpredictable 14th.

Todd Kelly triggered a Safety Car mid-race after stopping on track, his Nissan leaking coolant, and his brother Rick was involved in a substantial accident in the later stages, which saw the #15 Nissan jump on two wheels and go on to clean up Jamie Whincup. James Moffat was also caught in the incident, which appeared to have started with contact between Rick and Caruso.

Coulthard ended the race fifth, with Erebus’ Will Davison, Ford’s Mark Winterbottom, James Courtney, Tim Slade and Lee Holdsworth completing the top 10.

Others to note include Russell Ingall in 12th and Jason Bright 18th after a delaminating tyre.

Click here for full race results.

The V8 Supercars will be back on track at the Tyrepower Tasmania 400, from March 28-30.