Barrabool and the Sporting Motor Cycle Club's history
The
Sporting Motor Cycle Club (SMCC) was formed in March 1932
and has run continuously since, except for a brief hiatus
during WWII. The club was formed in Frank Pratt’s
Motorcycle Store at 2445a Moorabool Street Geelong. Frank
Pratt was the founding member and the club Secretary and
Treasurer for many years.
 The motocross bikes of the 1950's were rudimentary to say the least. Click to view larger. |
A membership fee of 5 shillings to join and three pence per meeting was required from members. The funds were acquired for the purpose of leasing a property for a racetrack.
On a training flight near Point Lonsdale in 1932 Frank Pratt spotted some land that he thought would be suitable for racing and contacted a Mr Wilson who used the land for horse training. This Bonnievale circuit was used by the club regularly from the 8th June 1932 until the start of the WWII then again after the end WWII until it was sold to Lakers for shell grit mining in 1950.
 Early riders had to deal with less than reliable machines. Take a look at whats left of the con rod! Click to view larger. |
The SMCC then moved to Point Henry on flat land between Alcoa and Whinchester. The land was sold around 1962. An advertisement was then placed in the Geelong Advertiser requesting the use of farmland for motorcycle riding. Clive McAdam, who the track is named after, loved motocross and allowed the SMCC to use part of his property.
The track was originally located on the north side of the property, which was on a steep hill. Unfortunately the hill was so steep that when it rained all the spectators cars had to be towed out by a tractor.
 With the new lightweight, purpose built 2-stroke motocross bikes, the sport boomed. Click to view larger. |
McAdam generously allowed the club to move the track to its current site. The track retains much of the original circuit except now it is used in the opposite direction.
The SMCC has endured several occasions when it has almost closed; during World War II and from insurance liability issues. But the tireless efforts of the clubs members have insured that the club is still alive and thriving.
 Sidcar MX was popular during the 60's and 70's. Check out the white coated corner marshalls (or is that markers?). Click to view larger. |
It is extremely important to note that since the SMCC has been at the Barrabool site, all profits from the clubs operation have been put back into capital improvements at the track. The club spends at least $20,000 a year on track and property maintenance.
The SMCC currently has 400 plus financial members. The club holds various club, state, national and international events for Motocross, Enduro, Trail, Vintage MX and Trials around the surrounding areas. These events include:
