Dick points west for 2005.

Dick Johnson Racing will enter a new era in the forthcoming Australian V8 Supercar Series, with confirmation that the Westpoint Group will replace Shell Helix as title sponsor.

Having become synonymous with the yellow, red and white colours of the petroleum giant, fans of the DJR Ford Falcons will have to get used to a striking new blue-and-white paint scheme, as one of Australia's largest finance, construction and property management organisations comes on board for the 2005 campaign.

"We are thrilled to announce that the team will be known as Westpoint Racing this - and for plenty more years after this," team owner, and V8 legend, Dick Johnson commented, "And I think that you will all agree that the new Ford looks absolutely sensational. It's a return to the colours that I raced in during the Tru-Blu era, and I know that Ford is very happy to see another of its teams sporting similar corporate colours."

After several multi-year deals with its former sponsor, Johnson believes he has secured an even better deal with Westpoint.

"DJR and Westpoint have committed to each other long term and have signed a multi-year sponsorship deal," he revealed, "Like a team can't win a championship in its first year, Westpoint understands that it needs time to reach its goals, so a short-term contract was not even a consideration. From a team point of view, to say we are happy with the deal struck with Westpoint is an understatement; it is a great deal and forms the start of a new and exciting relationship."

While Shell has reduced its business interests in motorsport, its three decade relationship with Johnson will still continue in 2005 and beyond.

"I am extremely happy to say that Shell will continue its association with my team for the next three years, albeit as a technical supporter," the team boss explained, "Like Shell, we certainly hope that today's Westpoint sponsorship announcement is the beginning of a long and fruitful relationship."

A new title sponsor is not the only change at DJR for 2005, as another series veteran, Glenn Seton joins Richards' son Steven in the two-car line-up.

"With Westpoint and Glenn having joined DJR, and Steven looking as committed as I have ever seen him, we are all looking forward to a very big year," Johnson added,
"They say a change is as good as a holiday and I can't argue with this - Westpoint has revitalised, rejuvenated and revved up Dick Johnson Racing.

"I'm incredibly excited about the future - we've got two very competitive cars, determined and talented drivers and a committed team. We finished last season with some strong results and everything is in place to help us go forward. Today is definitely the start of a new, exciting era for Dick Johnson Racing."