A community is in mourning after Dennis Smith tragically died "doing something he loved" at Queensland Raceway on Wednesday.
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The 68-year-old was racing in a midweek sprint at the Willowbank motor racing circuit when he missed a turn on the track and crashed into a tyre wall about 2.30pm.
Paramedics performed CPR on the northern New South Wales father, however he died on scene.
His son Craig, also a motorsport enthusiast, took to Facebook late on Wednesday night to pay tribute to his "best mate".
"With a heavy heart I lost my best mate and father today doing something that he loved you will always be in our thoughts my (sic) you rest easy Dad," he wrote.
"Thank you everyone for the phone calls and messages it is so good to know how many fantastic people are in our community.
"He died behind the wheel of a race car at Queensland raceway today doing something he loved."
One of Mr Smith's nieces said she was in "disbelief" after hearing the tragic news.
"Still in absolute shock and disbelief, but today my father lost his brother and lifelong friend," she wrote.
"Uncle Den (sic) you were taken way too early."
Fellow drivers and motorsport buffs also paid tribute to the grandfather.
"Had some good times with yourself (Craig) and Dennis at the speedway meetings, Craig, our thoughts are with you and your family he will be missed," one man wrote.
"It was amazing to meet and get to know Dennis, as knowing he was at Dirt Modified Driver in the early 90's (sic)," wrote another.
"Talking to him one day I found out he was the driver of my favourite car. Great guy, great chats, great love for life, family and talking speedway . Will Mis (dic) the chats Smithy (sic)."
Midweek sprints at the raceway are designed for road-registered, unregistered and race cars and are held over 12 rounds with results counting towards end-of-year trophies.
It is understood Wednesday's sprint involved 4 x 5 laps on the Clubman Circuit.
Forensic Crash Unit and Workplace Health and Safety were investigating.
Queensland Raceway was contacted for comment.