MA and taxpayers help buy McAdam Park

The future of the McAdam Park motocross circuit in Barrabool (Vic) is now assured after Australia's peak motorcycle racing body and the Victorian Government contributed $3.2m towards the purchase of the 300-acre expanse.

The survival of the venue, which has been used for off-road racing since the early 1960s, has been hanging by a thread for the last four years, and it was in danger of being lost forever had the required $3.2m not been raised  by yesterday's deadline.

But in a landmark gesture, Motorcycling Australia (MA) has joined forces with the Victorian State Government, the City of Greater Geelong and the Surf Coast Shire in acquiring McAdam Park.

"Following a series of meetings involving the Minister for Sport, the Honourable James Merlino and the State Member for Barwon, Michael Crutchfield, it was clear that without a funding contribution from MA the property would be lost to motorcycle sport," MA CEO David White said.

"Today is significant not only for motorcycle sport, but because it is a wonderful example of state government, regional councils, a national sporting body, motorcycle clubs and the general community working together to achieve an outcome which will not only see the saving of an iconic sporting venue, but ensure its future community use."

In this afternoon's announcement, Mr. Merlino confirmed the Victorian State Government will be contributing $1.2 million to the project.

Mr Merlino said the government would continue working with all parties in the months ahead to ensure the long-term sustainability of the facility.

"There's no doubt this is 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," he said.

Member for South Barwon Michael Crutchfield said McAdam Park hosted international, national and state motorcycling events, which help to deliver significant economic benefits to the region.

"As well as a venue for major and community events, McAdam Park also offers new or young motorcycle riders with a safe place to enjoy the sport they love," Mr Crutchfield said.

"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.

"The campaign to save McAdam Park has involved not only this government, councils, clubs, and the wider community, but also many local businesses which have financially supported this venue through fundraising activities and they should all be congratulated."

McAdam Park, 15 minutes from Geelong, is situated on land once owned by the late motorcycle-loving Clive McAdam, who passed away in 2003.

Clive's family then decided to relinquish the property, but has been selfless in its desire to see it remain as a motorcycle venue.

The first real big-ticket event to save McAdam Park was the 2005 Oceania Motocross Championship, which kick-started a number of other fundraisers.

The Oceania motocross title then returned to McAdam Park again in 2007.