Motocross plan is revving up

By Bridget Cook
MOTOCROSS enthusiasts could soon see a facility in the area, with Casey Council revving up the campaign for a track in the region.
At last week’s council meeting, a motion was passed to write a letter of support to the chief executive of Cardinia Shire, Garry McQuillan, relating to planning proposal for a motocross facility on McGregor Road, Pakenham.
Councillor Amanda Stapledon, who raised the item, said she also planned to raise a notice of motion at the next council meeting to explore potential sites for a motocross track in Casey or form a partnership with Cardinia Shire Council to find a suitable site.
A plan for the 50-hectare Cardinia Council-owned site is currently with the State Government Planning Department.
The proposal could include a go-kart track, an off-road motorbike track, a car track for autocross and motorkhana events and a driver education and training centre.
“In my discussions with council officers it has been discussed as to the possibility of a Casey/Cardinia partnership on a piece of land in the Casey Shire,” Cr Stapledon said.
“In my discussions with Cardinia Shire, a request was made for a letter of support from Casey Council to the CEO of Cardinia Shire to be presented to the planning minister while the application is on his desk.
“It would be great to get behind Cardinia Shire on this issue and could also be of benefit to Casey bike riders in the future.”
Cr Stapledon said she supported a facility in the region for a number of reasons.
“Having such a large and diverse municipality, residents have diverse interests and leisure activities that need to be accommodated,” she said. “The same applies to a rapidly growing Cardinia Shire.
“It would ensure that motocross, supercross, mini-bike, quad-bike and go-kart riders had a safe and purpose-built facility in which to ride within close proximity.
“It would seek to offer an alternative to riding in open space areas and back roads that are of concern to residents and riders alike.”