Track is secured for club

Discussions were initiated at the beginning of 2015 after the club was re-activated at its meeting held in November 2014.

The club previously occupied a track located on Mitchell Avenue, however due to noise issues associated with the encroaching urban development they were forced to close.

As a result, the motor cycle club have been without a track for a number of years.

“There is an increasing need for an appropriately located site within the Shire where motor bike riders can undertake their activities in a location in which disturbances to residences is minimised," Shire President, Cr Steven Pollard said.

“Northam is an area which has a vast array of recreational pursuits, with this in mind the development of a motorcycle recreation park is very much supported and fills a gap which has been in existence for a significant amount of time”.

Council undertook a public consultation process through placing public notices in local papers and also notifying adjacent and nearby landowners.

No submissions were received during the public notification period.

“The motor bike recreation park would likely attract visitors to the Shire who are also likely to visit other local activities supporting the growth of the regional tourism and events whilst also increasing the associated economic benefits that these visitors bring to the Shire," Cr Pollard said.

Club president, Robert Hughes, said he was excited about the agreement with the Shire of Northam.

"This is a very exciting time for the club and we are very keen to begin this new chapter," Mr Hughes said. 

The lease agreement between the Shire of Northam and Club was signed by Council on June 13 and is also subject to the approval of the Minister for Lands, this was approved by the Minister on June 20.

The lease has been granted for a period of 10 years plus the possibility of two five years extensions.