Geelong Sports Museum highlights BMX history

GEELONG Sports Museum has unveiled its latest exhibition, uncovering the history of BMX racing in Geelong.

Officially launched last week, Soaring Eagles, Roaring Thunder: Geelong’s BMX Story is a collaboration with the Australian BMX Museum and celebrates the culture of the sport.

Geelong’s history in BMX racing dates back to 1980 when Barwon Eagles BMX Club formed, by 1981, there were new clubs and tracks popping around the regions.

The Bellarine BMX Club also joined in on the action, hosting state-level events and the first UCI BMX World Cup Round in Australia.

Today, the sport continues to thrive with the Geelong Thunder BMX Club, operating as a family-friendly club, run by passionate volunteers.

“The Geelong Sports Museum collaboration has given the Australian BMX Museum a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on Geelong’s incredible contribution to BMX in Australia,” Australian BMX Museum chair Cameron Mitchell said.

“The region has produced world champions, passionate administrators, talented pro riders, and even played host to major international events.

“This showcase is really a celebration of the community spirit that has always empowered BMX in Geelong – the dedicated people who have nurtured, supported and grown the sport for decades.”

The current exhibition honours Geelong’s history in the sport with bike and riding gear on display from former top pro-rider and local Grant Williams.

Geelong Sports Museum general manager Jessica Reid said it had been fantastic collaborating with the Australian BMX Museum.

“The exhibition is a wonderful example of how local stories come to life through partnerships and passion.

“Soaring Eagles, Roaring Thunder is a great reason to visit the museum over summer, whether it’s your first time or you’re coming back to see something new.

Soaring Eagles, Roaring Thunder: Geelong’s BMX Story will be open until August 2026.

For more information, head to geelongsportsmuseum.vic.gov.au