BMX riders and cyclists across Victoria are moving up a gear with new, upgraded facilities in Shepparton now complete, thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence today opened the Shepparton BMX Track and Cycling Precinct upgrades, made possible by the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program.
The project has delivered a new two-storey pavilion that will give spectators better views of the BMX track and serve as a new hub for events and community gatherings.
Other upgrades include enhancements to the BMX track and start hills - improving conditions for riders, spectators and broadcasters, along with new lighting for the adjacent velodrome to support training at night, competitions and major cycling and BMX events - drawing thousands to the region.
The velodrome lights were completed in time for the Shepparton Cycling Club to host the opening event for the Victorian State Christmas Track Carnival Series on 28 December 2024.
The upgrades were delivered in partnership with Greater Shepparton City Council and local Shepparton companies - creating more than 76 local jobs along the way and engaging more than 50 businesses.
The upgrades will support the Shepparton BMX Club to host Australia's top BMX racers for the 2025 AusCycling BMX Racing National Series on Saturday and Sunday April 26-27, which will bring thousands of competitors and fans to Shepparton, boosting local jobs, businesses and the visitor economy.
The Regional Sports Infrastructure Program is delivering 16 projects across the state to make rural and regional Victoria an even better place to live, work and visit.
The Shepparton BMX Track and Cycling Precinct is complemented by other sport infrastructure upgrades in the area including VISY Community Stadium, Shepparton Sports Stadium and Shepparton Sports City. These upgrades are now under way and will make the venues more accessible and enjoyable for the local community.
As stated by Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence
"Shepparton's BMX Track and Cycling Precinct is home to some of Australia's best riders. These upgrades will give them the best chance to succeed now and into the future, while attracting more visitors to the region."
As stated by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
"These upgrades will welcome more riders and spectators to enjoy world-class BMX facilities, boosting the local economy. I also look forward to seeing works completed at the VISY Community Stadium, Shepparton Sports Stadium and Shepparton Sports City which complement this amazing sporting precinct."
As stated by Cr Shane Sali, Mayor of Greater Shepparton City Council
"These upgrades are a game changer for BMX and cycling in Greater Shepparton, ensuring we are ready and able to host world class events, attracting riders and spectators nationally and internationally to our region."
As stated by Ben Fitzsimmons, Shepparton BMX Club Co-President
"The new two-storey pavilion and track upgrades will improve the club's training abilities and provide us with dedicated amenities, catering and meeting spaces for events and competitions."
As stated by Brett Lancaster OAM, Shepparton Cycling Club President
"The new lights improve viewing at night and ensure the region's cycling facilities can support the next generation of up and coming riders."
