Works have commenced on game changing upgrades at the Shepparton BMX Track and Shepparton Cycling Precinct Velodrome, with the suite of works set to enhance the current facilities to better enable local, state, national and international events to be held.
The works, funded through the Victorian Government's Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, include a new Shepparton BMX Club Multi Use Events Pavilion which will provide appropriate facilities for the club for use during major events and for other users within the Shepparton Sports City Precinct.
The new two storey pavilion will provide the club with accessible and all gender toilets, meeting space, storage, first aid room, catering facilities, a flexible event space, and an outdoor undercover viewing area. The contract for these works was awarded to local company Moretto Building Pty Ltd, with works already underway to remove the previous club house facility. The new pavilion is expected to be completed by the end of March 2025.
Moretto Building will also be completing BMX start hill enhancements to improve the five metre and eight metre start hills for racing, along with improved storage for clubs. Works have already commenced, with completion expected in January 2025.
Works are also being undertaken on the BMX track to improve the track surface. The works will improve maintenance management for the club and provide a more aesthetically pleasing surface for broadcasting major events. The works, being completed by Pro Polymer Surfaces, are expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Works are also underway next door to light up the Cycling Precinct Velodrome, with the track set to receive 300 lux LED lighting to support local club training and competition activities, and major events. Local company Watters Electrical is completing the upgrade, with the works set to be finished by the end of the year.
"It is great to see these projects get underway. It means we are now one step closer to the community and visitors being able to enjoy these improved amenities," Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said.
"Our BMX Track is the leading facility in the state and these enhancements will further improve this world-class venue for riders, spectators and visitors. Greater Shepparton is a proven host of local, state, national and international sporting events, and any upgrades which ensure our facilities can manage this is a win for the region.
"The Shepparton Cycling Club will be hosting their annual Christmas Cycling Carnival under the revamped velodrome lights next week and we have already locked in the AusCycling BMX National Series round next year. This event will bring around 1,500 visitors from right around Australia to compete at our redeveloped facilities," Cr Sali said.
"We look forward to these major events supporting our visitor economy, keeping businesses busy and our economy strong."
Cr Steven Threlfall, McEwen Ward, said the suite of projects were a major drawcard for the region.
"We are extremely fortunate to have a world-class BMX facility in our region which plays host to thousands of visitors each year for both national and international events. It is great to see all four projects get underway, with the finished products helping to enhance our reputation as the sporting capital of regional Victoria," he said.
