Luke & Kerry Harding have constructed a private family motorbike track on their land at Backwater Road in Narromine, but their Development Application to Narromine Shire Council for track approval was rejected.

Their children currently participate in Motorcross training and are excelling at it. With no local facilities to train, this track will allow them to continue to prepare for their sport, build their confidence which enhances their safety, and continue to rise through the competitive levels. The family are committed to supporting the children and regularly travel long distances for participation in competitions. The children are already competing at a state level and have potential to be national competitors.

The children currently ride/train on their Backwater Road property on a flat track directly adjacent to the track that Council won't approve, and they don't need DA approval or a noise assessment for this, the only requirement is they are unable to go over jumps. Jumps are a significant part of motorcross and it is essential they have exposure to this practice, as previously mentioned for confidence and safety.

A lot of background research and preparation went into the proposal to Council, but Council still rejected it. Work that was done included, consultation, engineering reports, noise impact assessments and professionally drawn plans of the track. All reports and assessments passed set requirements. There would be no access to the public for usage or spectators.

There would be strict parameters around the track usage including dedicated time frames for usage, planting of trees/shrubs to the eastern and southern boundary, dust will be suppressed by a personal water truck and security addressed through existing fencing and new site signage.

Research has proven that exercise and participation in sport is good for both mental and physical health. With these children being motivated and talented these characteristics should be encouraged and nurtured.

In a small, rural community where entertainment and sporting options can be limited, we should be supporting those who are building their own pathways in activities they enjoy and rewarding them for being proactive and using initiative. 

Council believe that this track would not be in the interest of the public. We disagree, based on the high levels of support we have received since our Development Application was rejected. We are regularly asked how the children are going, how their performance is from their last competitions. Local businesses are identifying their talent and commitment by sponsoring them.

We plan to use this petition to demonstrate to Council the level of support there is in the community.