$1 million has been set aside in the State Budget to help retain Geelong’s McAdam Park as a community recreational and motorcycling facility, State Member for South Barwon, Michael Crutchfield announced today.
McAdam Park is currently owned by the family of the late Clive McAdam, who have indicated their wish to sell the site.
It is now the only remaining off-road motorcycle facility in the Surf Coast and Geelong region. 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.
Chairman of the Barwon Recreational Motorcycling Council, Peter Lindeman, said “This announcement today is vital to help ensure that the Geelong and Surf Coast regions continue to have this State significant motorcycling complex that could also provide a multi use facility for other community groups.”
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 and Mototrials events 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.
Sporting Motor Cycle Club coordinator for the Saving McAdam Park campaign, Peter Ovens, said “This is what we have been waiting for and the club is indebted to Michael for his belief in the need to save this Australian icon of motorcycling. Now we have to forge ahead with our own fundraising efforts which are integral to the overall funding strategies.”
“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.
Photo courtesy – Adam Olive
Front – SMCC members Harry and Jake West
Back – Peter Ovens, SMCC Saving McAdam Park coordinator - Michael Crutchfield MP, Member for South Barwon – Peter Lindeman, Chairman Barwon Recreational Motorcycling Council – Madison Bird, SMCC member
Can't the government see the writing on the wall, if they put lots of money into these adventures that they keep our kids off the streets and entertained etc...saves them money in the long run..common scene.. 
cheers alison
