Holden auction off bonnet for charity.

The Holden Racing Team has publicly auctioned the two commemorative '50 Round Wins' bonnets it ran on the cars of Mark Skaife and Todd Kelly in Darwin, and is to donate the proceeds from Skaife's bonnet to his charity of choice, the Concern Australia - Hand Brake Turn program.

The donation is part of a larger program the team kicked off this year when it opened its 'Online Garage', where members of the public can browse and purchase dented racing car panels and surplus equipment. A dented panel from each round is earmarked for donation to one of HRT's preferred charities, which can then raise funds by auctioning the item.

Skaife is a national board member of Hand Brake Turn, a program established by Concern Australia to help disadvantaged young people break out of the cycle of crime and give them a second chance by providing access to automotive training courses. Both Skaife and fellow Holden hero Peter Brock, have been long-time supporters of Hand Brake Turn which is based in Dandenong, Geelong and Skaife's home town of Gosford.

"It's something that means a great deal to me," Skaife said. "I was lucky enough to have opportunities and options when I was growing up but not everyone is so fortunate.

"For some, turning from a career of crime, or rising above social disadvantage is not a choice because there is no alternative, so I'm pleased to support the work of Hand Brake Turn in giving kids a chance to get a start in the automotive industry."

Concern Australia CEO Jill Mahar praised the support offered to Hand Brake Turn by Skaife and the Holden Racing Team.

"The support from Mark Skaife for our Hand Brake Turn program has been tremendous over the years," she said. "His personal interest in our young people goes a long way in helping them each feel worthwhile and their dreams achievable. The work of Hand Brake Turn with disadvantaged youth will really benefit from the proceeds from this auction. Gifts to HBT are a real investment in both the participants and their communities as well, as the program helps reduce unemployment, anti-social behaviour and local crime rates.

"Every little bit counts in giving young people a chance to get their life on track. HBT does this through developing their skills in mechanics, spray painting, panel beating and detailing to achieve their Certificate One Automotive, giving them realistic chance to get a job, an apprenticeship or further training opportunities."