VICTORIAN LIBERAL PARTY COMMIT TO SPEEDWAY

Mr Guy labelled improvements to the Mildura complex as ‘Important.’ As they (Victorian Liberal/Nationals) commit $675,000 towards major facility upgrades.

“Victoria has a strong connection to grass roots motorsport, and Mildura as a regional community plays such an important part for motorsport in this state.” He said, “We will make the track safer for competitors and improve the entertainment experience for those on the sidelines cheering along.”

B&S Earthworks Timmis Speedway announced its suspension of the 2022/2023 season earlier this year, as their committee attempts to secure funding to conduct safety fence and track lighting upgrades.

Mildura Liberal candidate Paul Matheson highlighted the importance of motorsport and speedway racing in his community. “Motorsport in Mildura generates over $24m a year to our local economy. The Mildura Speedway is a major contributor to the area and attracts thousands of visitors to the region each year. I am proud to be supporting such a great community ran venue.”

Mildura Speedway Drivers Club President Geoff Fell and project manager Jarod Waters were pleased with the attention their club has received since announcing the suspension of racing. “This venue means so much to thousands of competitors around the country. It was a hard decision to make (suspending racing), but the safety of the competitors, crews, race officials and race fans is and always will be our priority. Mildura has one of the best racetracks in the country, and when it re-open, it will be one of the safest too.”

Speedway Australia General Manager Darren Tindal said, ‘Today’s announcement is a win for our sport.’ “Speedway racing is now recognised as a community sport. Today, we were able to demonstrate the impact that speedway has on communities and how much of an impact they can have on a local economy if they cease to exist.”

Victorian SDO Nev Ross echoed Darren’s statement adding, “We need to keep our sport moving forward, the most effective way to do this is by continuing to work with our venues and increase their opportunity to secure funding for infrastructure upgrades. Victoria in particular has a rich history with some of these venues being the oldest the country. Without funding and support from government its often not viable for the clubs to conduct the infrastructure upgrades to keep operating. Funding announcements like the one today, will future proof our venues and ensure racing can continue for generations to come.”

Speedway Australia Sport Development Officers will continue to campaign to government bodies for funding commitments nationwide.

For more information about funding opportunities in your state, contact your relevant state Sport Development Officer.