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THE state government has committed to funding a human powered vehicle event in Dimboola after a successful trial last year.
An expo in July featured 150 people from Victoria and South Australia – including riders and support teams – racing at Dimboola Recreation Reserve.
Eight teams in 17 vehicles completed a 1.2-kilometre circuit during the six-hour demonstration race, reaching speeds of up to 55km/h.
Hindmarsh Shire Council hosted the event, and will host a similar one in mid-2018 after receiving money through the government’s Regional Events Fund.
Hindmarsh mayor Ron Ismay said council was keen to capitalise on the success of last year’s event.
“It went well last year, and it's something I think we can definitely build on,” he said.
“The recreation reserve is ideal – it has so much potential to be a great track with all the ups and downs, and the beautiful red gums lining the track.
“There’s the caravan park next door, so it should hopefully enhance visitor numbers there, plus the skate park is now completed at the reserve.
“It’s also right next to the river – it’s a great setting.”
Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford, who announced the funding, said it would give people more reasons to visit the town.
“Major events mean big business for Victoria’s regions, with the human powered vehicle event expected to attract up to 400 people and generate valuable income for Dimboola and district,” she said.
“It’s events like these that keep our pubs, cafes, motels and caravan parks busy, and puts Dimboola on the map for tourists.”
The state government has declined to release the funding amount, subject to a commercial in confidence clause.
The Wimmera boasts a number of human powered vehicle teams that compete in events across Victoria and interstate.
Holy Trinity Lutheran College Horsham, Horsham West Primary School, Ss Michael and John’s Primary School Horsham, Horsham College, Warracknabeal Secondary College, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Warracknabeal, Stawell West Primary School, St Arnaud Secondary College and Great Western Primary School are among the schools with HPV teams.