VALE Doug Sharp
Australia’s motorcycling and motorcycle sport community is mourning the loss of Doug ‘Dougie’ Sharp, who passed away suddenly in October, aged 72. A co-founder and Director of GAS Imports Pty Ltd, Sharp had a long association with motorcycling, including time in the GP paddock, where he spannered for some of the sport’s top names.
Born in Adelaide in 1953, Sharp was enamoured with motorcycles from a young age. That passion led him all the way to the pinnacle of the sport. As a mechanic in the 500cc World Championship, Sharp worked with the likes of Wayne Gardner, Daryl Beattie and Tohru Ukawa, as well as Alex Criville in his 1999 World Championship-winning year with Repsol Honda. Sharp was also present for the premier class’s transition from 500cc two-strokes to the MotoGP four-stroke era, when he worked with Nicky Hayden at Repsol Honda.
In 1993, Sharp co-founded GAS Imports Pty Ltd in Melbourne with Sean Gallagher, who had raced in the Shell Oils Superbike Series. After leaving the MotoGP circus to settle back in Australia, Sharp was able to devote more time to GAS Imports, with the efforts of he and Gallagher turning the business into one of the largest independent distributors in the Australian motorcycle industry.
GAS Imports currently supplies products from Michelin, Brembo, Akrapovic, Spy, Yuasa, Rock Oil, Thor, Rizoma and others in a portfolio that covers 16 brands. Being Michelin’s local rep meant Sharp became a regular sight in the Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) paddock, with many on first name terms with ‘Dougie’.
Sharp’s dedicated, knowledgeable and methodical approach to his products made him a respected figure, in both ASBK and the broader motorcycle community. While he accomplished a lot in the local industry, those who knew him well describe Sharp as being modest about his achievements.
A no-nonsense character, Sharp may not have returned phone calls as rapidly as some would like, but his genial manner meant he was always forgiven!
Following Sharp’s passing, GAS Imports’ Gallagher issued the following statement:
It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Douglas (Dougie) Sharp, Director of GAS Imports Pty Ltd.
Doug was a deeply respected figure, not only within our business but also in the wider motorcycle community. His leadership, passion, and dedication shaped GAS Imports into the trusted company it is today. Doug’s legacy will continue to guide us, and he will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
As we navigate this difficult time, we want to assure you that GAS Imports Pty Ltd will continue to operate as normal. However, we kindly ask for your patience and understanding as we manage this transition.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Doug’s family, friends, and all who are mourning his loss. Thank you for your continued support and compassion during this time.
Respecting Sharp’s wishes, the funeral service was a small affair for family, close friends and colleagues, held at Essendon FC’s Windy Hill club rooms on 14 November.
JUST BIKES extends its sympathies to Sharp’s family and friends, as well as the team at GAS Imports Pty Ltd.
