Payne shrugs off Bathurst crash on fast Friday

The pain of crashing out late in the Repco Bathurst 1000 is a distant memory for Matt Payne, who ended Friday firmly in the mix at the Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500.

The Penrite Racing driver shrugged off a brush with the tyre barriers at the final corner to end up third in Practice 2, which was topped by Tickford Racing driver Thomas Randle.

Earlier, Payne ended up 10th in Practice 1, having not fired a shot on green tyres at the end of the session.

It was a solid turnaround just 12 days after a heartbreaking end to the Great Race, with Payne the sole victim of a rapid race in his crash at The Cutting.

Speaking after the Bathurst round, co-driver Garth Tander said part of the team’s debrief was piecing Payne’s confidence back together.

Following Friday practice, Payne said going fast in Surfers Paradise was the best way to bury the demons.

"I've just gone into this weekend just wanting to put Bathurst behind us,” Payne said.

“And I think today has been a good day and a good step towards doing that. So, yeah, pretty happy with the car and looking forward to tomorrow.”

Payne gently nudged the tyre barriers at the final corner, but quick repairs saw the New Zealander quickly back on the pace and challenging the fast Tickford Mustangs.

The 22-year-old has form on the Gold Coast, securing his maiden Supercars front row start 12 months ago in a round that set up a crack at victory at the VAILO Adelaide 500.

“Just pushing the limits and went straight at the last corner and it turns left,” he said.

“Found the tyre wall and boys fixed it up and put a bit of tape on it. Didn't look look the prettiest, but it was till fast.

"So, yeah, happy to get back out there after that one."

On track action at the Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 continues on Saturday with Boost Mobile Qualifying at 11:00am local time/12:00pm AEDT. Tickets for the event are on sale now.