But it was his own Brabham racing cars - designed and engineered with friend and fellow Australian Ron Tauranac - that led to him winning the 1966 championship.

Jack Brabham (left) receives the Key to the City from Sydney Lord Mayor Harry Jensen in 1960. Credit:SMH

Brabham is the only person to have won the formula one world championship in his own car.

He was born John Arthur Brabham on April 2, 1926, but was known as Jack and later picked up the nickname Black Jack.

Brabham is survived by his second wife, Lady Margaret, and sons to his first wife Betty - Geoff, Gary and David, each of whom has enjoyed success in motorsport.