WITH more than 3000 spectators and crew expected to attend the MX Nationals on Sunday, an event which attracts a huge amount of tourism to the Wimmera capital.
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More than 250 riders will attend the weekend’s event and they bring with them parents, managers, media, first aid and crew.
The nationals also have a cult following as people watch the competition on its journey across Australia.
It will also help country Victoria’s exposure to the wider public, nationally and internationally with a live stream of the event online.
Riders from across Australia and the world will be in Horsham and – Horsham Motorcycle Club president Kenny Watts said accommodation is booked up across the city and in Stawell and Warracknabeal.
Horsham Rural City Council co-ordinator of tourism and events, Chris McClure, said Horsham would be in the spotlight.
“We expect at least 2000 spectators to come down for the day,” he said.
“Those people will need to eat – whether they choose to support the cafeteria at the track or eat in town... that money will go back into the economy.”
Mr McClure said expected an injection of at least $350,000 into the region’s economy.
“It is a little difficult to tell exactly how much (money) will come in – but we have hosted this event before and that is roughly the amount,” he said. “The motorcycle club needs to be commended with its vision and taking giant steps to host these events.”
A meet-and-greet with the riders is at the Horsham Motorcycle Club on Saturday from 4.30pm. The event is a fundraiser for beyondblue.
“It’s a good chance to get some photos with the riders,” Mr McClure said.