Shepparton and District Car Club put on a display of grit and determination at this year’s Inter-Club Challenge, but not just on the track.
The club unveiled its new centre of operations on October 21 – a testament to the hard work of its members in an anything-but-smooth-sliding affair.
According to club president Justin Aylett, the centre’s execution took years of paperwork and liaising, and was made possible by club members, generous sponsors and government assistance.
“The continued support from KO Motoring Events provided us the opportunity to earn the club money through the struggles that resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.
“When return from COVID-19 grants came out, we got $94,000 from the Victorian Government. We saw that and dreamt big.
“Prices went through the roof, so (Greater Shepparton City) Council threw in $30,000 to help us get there.”
The new space will incorporate a club room, first aid room and more, as seen by the 50 attendees at the centre’s ribbon-cutting ceremony, including City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali.
The ribbon cutting was performed by Motorsport Australia’s regional development executive for Victoria and Tasmania Daniel Gorgievski, whom Mr Aylett praised for putting the club’s attention to the grants and helping them through the process.
“It’s a ‘build it and they’ll come’ situation; we’re hoping to get more members,” Mr Aylett said.
“We also unveiled our new recovery vehicle that day – a very slick bit of gear to complement the new shed and the beginning of a new look for the club.”
- Mr Aylett would like to thank the following for their involvement and support: the Victorian Government, Greater Shepparton City Council, Motorsport Australia, All Sheds, Watters Electrical, KO Motoring Events, GV Stickers and Designs, Jetski Automation, Aylett Custom Fabrication, Haymes Paint Shop Shepparton, and, of course, the Shepparton and District Car Club members.
The club’s next racing event will be on Sunday, November 26, at 25 Little Rd, Mooroopna.
All are welcome to come along and get involved, with free entry to spectators.
For more information about the Shepparton and District Car Club, contact president Justin Aylett on 0413 900 755 or visit the club’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Shepcarclub