The team with the longest continuous pedigree in Australian motorsport was established more than 30 years ago when Dick Johnson earned his first commercial support from long-time sponsor, Shell Australia.

For many years Dick Johnson raced Holdens; it was not until 1977 that he switched camps and began campaigning a Falcon – an association which the team that carries his name continues proudly today.

DJR claimed its first Bathurst crown in 1981, a year after Johnson had crashed out of the legendary race, courtesy of a rock rolled onto the track by a spectator. Ford and the Australian public donated more than $70,000 and Johnson repaid their faith and generosity.

Increased Shell involvement in 1987 allowed DJR to field its first two-car effort in the touring car series. The Shell Ultra Hi Racing Team ran the revolutionary Ford Sierra Cosworth and former motorcycle champion – the late Gregg Hansford – joined forces with Johnson.

In 1988, John Bowe signed with DJR, launching a highly successful 11-year partnership that included two Bathurst victories. Bowe left in 1998 and two-time World Touring Car champion, Paul Radisich joined the team.

1999 proved to be a watershed year for DJR. Although there were problems, Radisich proved he was a force to contend with – an important consideration given the fact that team owner and motorsport legend Dick Johnson was spending his last year at the wheel.

In 2000, the new guard took over in full force. Radisich was joined by the young man known then as ‘Junior’ – Steven Johnson. Split for the endurance races, Radisich (and Jason Bright) took second place at the FAI 1000 last year while Steven (partnered by Cameron McLean) took fourth. The results sound a warning of the power and professionalism that the two drivers, DJR – and Shell Helix Racing – bring into the 2001 V8 Supercar season.