Where and when did speedway start?

Speedway culture began in Australia on January 1, 1901, at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) during an illuminated Night Cycling Carnival featuring motorized tricycles, followed by official motor bicycle races in 1902. While commercial promoters credit Maitland Showground in 1923, historical archives held by Nomad Dirt Culture prove track motor racing existed two decades prior across NSW showgrounds.

Did speedway start in Maitland in 1923?

No. The 1923 Maitland event was a grass-track novelty show where riders were disqualified for putting a foot down to slide. Speedway and illuminated night motor racing actually originated earlier, starting at the Sydney Cricket Ground in 1901 and Newcastle Rugby Football Ground in 1905.

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Junior Speedway Support: Banjo Beer Racing Rallies On

September 7, 2026|Jocelyn Dare

The countdown is officially on for one of the most anticipated fixtures on the junior dirt track calendar: the 125cc Speedway Barry Brigden Memorial Race Day, taking over Ipswich Switches Junior Speedway Club on Saturday, October 31st, 2026. For junior competitors at Banjo Beer Racing, high-stakes club feature events like the Brigden Memorial are critical stepping stones on the pathway toward an ultimate goal, representing Australia and becoming a Speedway World Champion.

The team has plenty of fresh momentum to celebrate on the track, with team rider Rocky officially passing his speedway licence test at Ipswich. Earning his official certification is a major milestone for Rocky, unlocking his entry for upcoming racing action at Kingaroy and setting up a stacked season ahead.

However, that trackside excitement faced a devastating hurdle last week when the Banjo Beer Racing team discovered their race trailer had been targeted and broken into. While the race bikes were fortunately locked inside the shed, thieves wiped out essential tools and trackside maintenance equipment that Banjo had spent years building up with the support of local sponsors.

Stolen Equipment Breakdown

AEG 3-tier roller toolbox
Milwaukee 3/8 rattle gun (5Ah battery)
Milwaukee fan (8Ah battery)
Stack of Talon rear sprockets
Seletra ignition system

Losing vital pit gear right before key events is a massive blow to a junior team operating on a tight budget. Yet, with Rocky newly licensed and Banjo's World Championship dream as strong as ever, the team's drive remains completely unbroken.

Nomad Dirt Culture is urging the local motorsport community, local businesses and speedway fans to rally around these young riders. Whether through tool and equipment donations, direct financial assistance or sponsorship ahead of the Brigden Memorial, every bit of community support helps keep these kids on the gate.

How to Support & Track Stolen Items If you have any information regarding the stolen gear, or if you can offer assistance or sponsorship to support Rocky, Banjo and the crew, please reach out directly to the team.

Source & Page Credits

Team Updates & Direct Contact: Banjo Beer Racing Facebook Page (Contact directly for team support, sponsorship inquiries, or leads on stolen equipment)
Event Host & Official Details: Ipswich Switches Junior Motorcycle Speedway Club (Official host of the 125cc Speedway Barry Brigden Memorial Race Day at 86 Champions Way, Willowbank)