Mammoth crowds at show

By Bridget Brady
MORE than 25,000 people turned up at the Cranbourne Racecourse for a Monster Trucks Australia show on Sunday night causing major traffic congestion in the area.
Senior Sergeant Daleen Spicer from Cranbourne police said police officers had to alter the traffic light cycles near Grant Street, Cranbourne, to clear the traffic while the organisers said police had to close the street.
“Police weren’t very happy. Obviously those running the event will need to do greater planning … it was difficult,” Sen Sgt Spicer said.
Also unhappy were nearly 10,000 people who were turned away on Easter Sunday as the Cranbourne Racecourse could hold only about 15,000 people.
“I believe there were delays getting into the event and organisers need to look at an alternative location,” Sen Sgt Spicer said.
He said police had no problems with the crowds or the event, with no reports of crime.
“The crowd behaviour overall was quite good, but traffic certainly needs to be addressed.”
Rod Britton from Monster Trucks Australia said it was regrettable that people had to be turned away.
“We thought it would be big but we didn’t expect those numbers,” Mr Britton said.
“We are so sorry for those who turned up and could not get in. I feel sorry for them because they probably spent a while in the car but in the end the venue can only hold X amount.”
Mr Britton said Monster Trucks Australia would look into changing their ticketing to a pre-paid option only to avoid future disappointment. People were able to buy tickets for the show on the night.
“The police had to close Grant Street because of all of the people,” Mr Britton said.
Despite the large crowds, Mr Britton said the night’s entertainment went very well.
One of the highlights was the 13-tonne monster motorbike and the jet vans, he said.
Cranbourne Turf Club chief executive Neil Bainbridge said the show brought a lot of people in to Cranbourne.
“We think numbers like that are good for Cranbourne. The people shop and they stay and it’s a great boost for Cranbourne trades and the entire local community,” Mr Bainbridge said.
If the event was held at the racing centre again, Mr Bainbridge said the Cranbourne Racing Centre would work closely with Monster Trucks Australia to provide the best possible access to the venue for patrons.
According to one patron and Berwick resident Tony Dingle, many left the show before the end.
Mr Dingle said ash hovered over the crowd when jet vans set cars on fire during one of the performances.
“From where we were sitting these big bits of ash came over towards the pavilion. The people sitting next to me said ‘I hope no one gets burnt’.”
If anyone had reserved seats and could not get in to the show, they can get a refund by calling Monster Trucks Australia on 0404 MONSTER.