Spectators took advantage of the nice weather to attend the opening day of practice.
Photo by
Megan Fisher
The Greater Shepparton economy received an estimated $6 million boost as the region successfully hosted the BMX National Championships, with thousands of visitors descending on the Goulburn Valley for the spectacle.
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Following a recent revamp, the Shepparton BMX Track showcased its potential as a host venue of world-class events, with some 5000 fans packing into the upgraded pavilion between April 13 and 19.
On the track, participants aged between eight and over 60 took part in races, with Olympic elite women’s champion Saya Sakakibara and hometown elite men’s hero Hayden Fletcher among the headline performers.
Now, Shepparton business owners have outlined the significant economic impact of staging the event in the region, reporting a major increase in custom during what proved to be a memorable week.
Sherbourne Terrace owner Nick Zurcas was among those who spoke of the positive legacy that recent high-profile sporting events would have for businesses in the Goulburn Valley.
“We have been full right across the 10 days thanks to the frisbee and BMX events, which has been really good for our business,’’ he said.
Likewise, GV Hotel co-owner John Buzzo expressed his joy as he reported takings akin to pre-COVID levels.
“We feel that we are back to pre-COVID figures. Our bistro has been going strong, where we are seeing visitors who are here for events coming to our venue,” he said.
Moreover, Peppermill Inn manager Todd Van Kerkhof explained that the increased visitation to the region for the BMX National Championships saw business more than double during one evening last week.
State Member for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe gives riders a warm welcome to the Shepparton BMX track.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
“Our bistro has been busy. Without the event we would probably do 80 to 100 meals on a standard day, but we had 220 booked in one night during the BMX event,” he said.
Reflecting on the triumph of the week, City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali said the spectacle demonstrated the region’s ability to put on events on a grand scale.
“With more than 2000 participants and 5000 visitors, there was a strong increase in activity across our local businesses, visitor attractions, accommodation sector, cafés and hospitality providers,” he said.
“Driving through the town you can see the impact that the event has had on the region, with all the ‘no vacancy’ signs up. Greater Shepparton has been bustling with visitors over the last 10 nights, which highlights the magnitude of hosting such a prestigious event.”
Councillors Steven Threllfall and Anthony Brophy, AusCycling chief executive Marne Fechner, reigning national champion Hayden Fletcher, Olympic champion Saya Sakakibara, City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali and Greater Shepparton Council chief executive Fiona Le Gassick.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Building upon the BMX National Championships, it was also announced in the past week that Shepparton would stage two rounds of the UCI BMX Racing World Cup in 2028, the world’s premier BMX racing series.
Taking place in the lead-up to the Los Angeles Olympics that same year, the opportunity to host an international event on this scale represents a major coup for the region.
“Last week showed that Shepparton is well positioned to host major sporting events. We are now taking this to the next level by securing an internationally renowned competition,” Cr Sali said.
“This event will profile Greater Shepparton as a must-see destination, not only across Australia but also around the world.
“Council is committed to providing opportunities for the community to participate in sport at a grassroots level, while also attracting major events that inspire our community, support local businesses and deliver long-term economic benefits for Greater Shepparton.”
