Editor's Note - It is good to hear any positive news in these times of global financial crisis. But this is particularly good, since it has the potential to benefit the Victorian dirt bike community for many years to come.
Of course this is not the end of the story, because further resources may be needed to make it stick.
So, now is a good time to send that letter or email to show your support for this venue and dirt bike riding in general.
Sporting Motorcycle Club Geelong
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Back (left to right): Peter Ovens (Sporting Motorcycle Club save McAdam Park co-ordinator), Michael Crutchfield (State Member for South Barwon and Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment and Water), Peter Lindeman (Barwon Recreation Motorcycling Council), Madison Bird (Bike 356).
Front: Harry West and Jake West.
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$1 Million To Help Keep Geelong Motorcycle Complex
State Member for South Barwon, Michael Crutchfield announced today that $1 million has been set aside by the Victorian State Government to help retain Geelong’s McAdam Park as a dedicated motorcycling facility.
McAdam Park is the only off-road motorcycle facility in the Surf Coast and Geelong region and is currently owned by the family of the late Clive McAdam, who have indicated their wish to sell the site.
Mr Crutchfield said the Sporting Motor Cycle Club (founded in 1932) had been operating at McAdam Park since 1963.
“The Barwon Recreational Motorcycling Council has been instrumental in helping to source the funds required to ensure the Park remains a hub for motorcycle clubs in the region, and I encourage them to continue this good work as it is an important part of the overall fundraising strategy ” Mr Crutchfield said.
“McAdam Park is already widely renowned as a motorcycling facility both here in Australia and internationally and the Victorian Government is happy to put a million dollars on the table to ensure it stays that way.
“I encourage other levels of government and the motorcycle industry to give serious consideration to also investing in the acquisition of this important regional sporting facility,” he said.
The Sporting Motor Cycle Club is a volunteer based organisation which has been responsible for educating thousands of young people in Geelong about rules, regulations and safety in relation to riding motorbikes.
Mr Crutchfield said McAdam Park already hosted international, national and state motorcycling events, which help to deliver significant economic benefits to the Surf Coast and Geelong region.
“Earlier this year, McAdam Park welcomed competitors in the Motocross event as part of the Australian Masters Games,” Mr Crutchfield said.
“The facility also hosts some terrific community events such as the inaugural ‘Back to Barrabool’ social event coming up on the weekend of May 23/24.
“Geelong Motocross Club also jointly uses the facility providing a usable and safe environment for their club members, following the City of Greater Geelong decision to close their former Breakwater facilities.
“As well as a venue for major and community events, McAdam Park also offers new or underage motorcycle riders with a safe place to enjoy the sport they love.
“McAdam Park also plays an important role in helping these riders to gain the necessary skills associated with riding recreational motorcycles in a safe and socially responsible way.
“It’s indeed an important community asset and the Victorian Government is delighted to play a leading role in helping to secure its future for the people of Geelong,” Mr Crutchfield said.
The Hon. Michael Crutchfield MP is Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment and Water
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