Australia has proven its fitness, finesse with wins at Bathurst, Wellington and France.

Chloe Ranford reports.

TRANSCRIPT

Craig Lowndes is still celebrating his sixth consecutive Bathurst 1000 title.

He and co-driver Steven Richards holding off a frantic finishing dash to claim the first win for Holden in three years.

Craig Lowndes, Bathurst 100 Champion: “For me it’s pretty special, standing here beside the trophy. This is our biggest race of the year and to now say 6.”

He’s three wins away from Peter Brock’s record.

The Newcastle Jets kickstarted their A-league campaign with a 2-1 win over the Wellington Phoenix.

The win came despite the Jets being reduced to 10 men.

Newcastle hosts Sydney FC on Saturday.

Australian surfer Mick Fanning is on track to win his fourth world title.

He’s through to the quarter finals at the World Surf League in France.

Fellow Australians, Bede Durbidge and Owen Wright also progressed.

However, six-time world women’s champ, Stephanie Gilmore was eliminated.

She hasn’t fully recovered from a knee injury.

Chloe Ranford, QUT News.