Putting the foot down on upgrades

A MUCH-needed re-fuel is coming to Bendigo Kart Club, with the State Government granting the club $64,000 for redevelopments.

The money will go towards resurfacing part of the track, putting in a shelter, and purchasing a kart and equipment for women and girls’ come-n-try events.

President of Bendigo Kart Club Brett Arnett said the grant will help bring the club and track up to standard and get more competitors.

“This funding was needed just to cover our out-grid and the upgrade of the track, to bring us towards looking after the kids on the grid and keeping them out of the weather out of the sun,” he said.

Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards said the club is one of 12 across Victoria to share more than $2 million as part of the State Government’s Community Motorsport Program.

She said motorsport in Victoria supports over 4000 jobs and contributes $700 million to the state’s economy.

“Victorians love their motorsports, that’s why we’re making sure women and men, girls and boys, trainers and volunteers have access to quality facilities and programs so they can do communities like Bendigo proud,” she said.

The club currently has no practice karts available for use, which Mr Arnett said makes it difficult for people, especially young girls, to break into the sport.

“We’re going to purchase some equipment for the girls so they can come up here and have a buzz around and see if they like it and tell their friends and hopefully bring a few more up,” he said.

“Once they have a bit of a go in it, they get the bug and you find that they’re hooked and they start looking for a kart.”

Mr Arnett expects the resurfacing work to be completed in the next three or four months.