Source :- PERTH NOW NEWS
It’s the end of an era for the West Coast Jet Sprint Club, with their venue of 36 years closed with not even time for a farewell race around the pond.
The long-standing club was advised six week ago the Baldivis park where they operated from, known as The Cauldron, had been sold for future development and they would need to vacate by the end of October.
Club president Adam Mileham said they had been trying to negotiate an extension for a while but due to noise restrictions by the City of Rockingham, the leaseholder would not oblige.
“While we always knew the land would eventually be developed, we had understood and hoped we would receive considerably more notice, allowing us time to plan for the transition and secure a new home for the sport,” Mr Mileham said.
“Unfortunately, things have unfolded much sooner than anticipated.
“We had dearly hoped to give The Cauldron and our loyal supporters the farewell they deserve.”
Jetsprinting is the rally driving of water sports, with boats capable of pulling 8Gs racing the clock through tight, artificially created water channel course. On board, just a driveer and a navigator, who uses hand signals to communicate upcoming directions.
West Coast’s committee had negotiated with the developers and leaseholder in the hope of holding one last racing season, or at the very least, one final race meeting.
“More than anything, we wanted to put on one last event for the fans who have supported us over the years,” Mr Mileham said.
“To see the banks lined with spectators and hear the engines roar around The Cauldron one final time would have meant so much to us.”
While the developers had been supportive of the idea, the club was unable to reach an agreement with the leaseholder to make this possible.
The club is currently exploring two prospective track locations to reopen its doors in Beverley and Kalgoorlie, with planning and investigations under way.
With processes and approvals yet to be worked through, the club has nothing confirmed at this stage.
“Establishing a new venue is no small undertaking, but we remain hopeful and determined to get the boats back on the water,” Mr Mileham said.
“While our time at Baldivis has come to an end, we remain committed to securing a future for jet sprint racing in Western Australia.
“The chequered flag may have fallen on The Cauldron, but we’re determined this won’t be the finish line for jet sprint racing in WA.”
