Velocity News and publisher Mark Petch are thrilled to announce the appointment of Jessica Barnes as their new Deputy Editor.
For those who don’t know Jessica, she is a photographer and independent owner of Blissful Photography. She has been covering motorsport and speedway in New Zealand for nearly six years. Jess is also the co-founder of Tauranga Motorfest and a current contributing editor for NZ Dirt Track Racing Magazine.
Jessica is well-known in motorsport and speedway communities for her award-winning photography. She is the official Baypark Speedway and Premier Events photographer and a part-time photographer at Oceanview Speedway in Whanganui. We are excited to welcome her to the team.
Jessica has dabbled in a bit of racing herself, trying out NZ Jetski Racing for a season before focusing on photography full-time. She is a keen automotive and motorsport enthusiast.
“I am beyond grateful to be offered this opportunity to jump on board with Mark and the Velocity News team as Deputy Editor. Working in NZ motorsport and speedway over the years has been a passion of mine, not just in photography but also in journalism.
“I have poured my heart and soul into my photography for many years over various motorsports in New Zealand and Australia and, during that time, founded a new passion for writing. My passion for motorsport ranges from NZ grass-roots motorsport to international motorsport such as F1, WRC, Nascar & Supercars.
“I have worked alongside Velocity’s previous editor, Matthew Sampson, for a little over a year now. I can’t thank Matthew enough for all he has taught me and the support and guidance throughout my journey as I dive deeper into motorsport journalism. I wish him all the best as he starts a new chapter in life overseas.
“I am eager to start my role at Velocity News and represent and bring more exposure to NZ Motorsport and Kiwi racers abroad. I’m excited to see what positive influence I can achieve in the industry through photography and journalism.
“I look forward to working alongside editor Jayden Aben, a massive asset to NZ Motorsport and another legend to work alongside, as well as Publisher Mark Petch.”
