Oh, for Godwin’s sake …
the now-famous ute. THE knackered 13-year-old Mazda ute that caused a political storm in June is about to go on a national tour to raise money for charity, but will first return to the spotlight at a car racing event next weekend. The Mazda will not be racing, but has become a fundraising attraction at the Queensland House and Land.Com 300 V8 Supercar event held at Queensland Raceway. Local Ipswich motor dealer John Grant, who loaned the ute to his friend and neighbour Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, triggering the so-called Utegate controversy, is turning the vehicle’s infamy to a good cause by making it available for charity rides on Saturday and Sunday. The not-so-handsome ute will be displayed at the main gate and will do a turn on the track, driven by Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale.