Greatest Achievements

ON: Making it to F1 has to be my greatest achievement because the odds were stacked against us.

OFF: Getting ready for the ’09 season after smashing up my leg and shoulder in Tasmania. Crutches on the side of the pool, pain when I tried to do anything; constant dependence on people to do things for me – it was very tough psychologically.

Mentor

ON: Mick Doohan. He’s always given me advice and support, and was very good during my recuperation in ’09. Mick’s broken a few bones in his time, so helped me deal with it. Jackie Stewart. He’s worked very hard to get where he’s got, and he continues to work very hard. He’s remained poised and elegant all the way through his career. He’s a class act; he’s an inspiration.

OFF: David Moffett. Ex Group MD at Telstra. A very successful businessman who knows how to get things done.

Funniest Moment

ON: Australia ’02. Before the race Stoddy told me to stay out of trouble and bring the car home. With 10 laps to go he came on the radio and told me under no circumstance to let Mika Salo through!

OFF: My brother-in-law and father and I trying to do a long paddle in Australia. They were stopped by the coastguard for not having the correct flares and torches. I did the whole thing alone. When I got back they were waiting for me at the jetty!

Scariest Moment

ON: Going upside down at Le Mans in ’99. Twice. Valencia 2010

OFF: Seeing my mate Morris Denton have a head-on with a car while we were cycling near Monaco. I just missed the car and he hit it head-on, totally writing it off with his body. I thought he was dead but, thank God, he wasn’t.

Favourite Country

ON: Australia. It’s the best race of the year.

OFF: Italy. The Dolomites are stunning, the food is great, I just love that place.

Stress Buster

ON: Watching sport on TV. I have a little room in the Red Bull Energy Station, where I chill out and see what else is going on in sport.

OFF: Hanging out with the dogs, whether it’s ragging with them on the lawn or taking them for a walk.