News
10 September, 2024
Reving up renewal vote
Somerset council is once again asking the community to decide the fate of Kilcoy’s local Motocross Club.
The lease for the land the club occupies is coming to an end and Council is asking people to have their say before committing to a renewal.
Club Secretary, Chris Powyer, said the club and the sport have deep roots in the local community.
“Motocross is a dominant sport and it’s important to the community here because it’s been around for such a long time,” he said.
“It’s one of the largest clubs, if not the largest club, in the country as well.”
Kilcoy Motocross Club, which is located on Neurum Road, Glenfern, is run by volunteers and provides members, both young and old, the opportunity to engage in the sport of motocrossing.
In the past, the club has successfully renewed their lease thanks to the support of the local community.
Despite some concerns from neighbours, Powyer said the club works hard to follow the strict guidelines provided by Council.
“The council has set rules and regulations around the way we operate and we work very hard and pride ourselves to make sure we follow those rules,” Powyer said.
“If they have any concerns or issues, it’s an open door and they can come and talk to us and we can try and resolve them.”
The support for the lease renewal has remained largely positive thanks to the backing of clubs’ members and local businesses.
“We like to think that we give a lot back to the community,” Powyer said.
“We generate some business for the hotel, we use the local service station to fuel all our machines, there’s also some guys that live locally, who come and do track work and coaching, we buy all our breads, pies and sausage rolls and all that from the local bakery.”
Powyer said the potential loss of their venue would have far-reaching consequences on the sport of motocrossing.
“Motocross is essentially running out of places to hold these events, and it would be a loss to the motorcycling community,” he said.
The club has played a role in nurturing future motocross legends, including world-class riders Hunter and Jett Lawrence, who raced at the Kilcoy club as juniors.
“They’re two of the best riders in the world but it’s because of the platform that was created for them as juniors,” Powyer said.
“A lot of people would be devastated, myself included, if that opportunity was taken away from the future superstars of the sport and what it brings to everyone else.”
Powyer also highlighted the importance that families play in keeping the club running.
“Whilst the racing itself is an individual sport, it’s also very family orientated,” he said.
“It’s well supported in the way of family supporting families.”
To support the Kilcoy Motocross Club and ensure its continued presence in the local community, participate in the feedback process by Monday, September 16th, visiting www.somerset.qld.gov.au/ homepage/223/have-yoursay---kilcoy-motorcycleclub-inc
