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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THROUGH THE LENS OF A LEGEND: HONOURING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF COLIN STRATFORD

June 1, 2026|Jocelyn Dare

Published: 21st May 2026, Brisbane

The trackside fence won’t feel the same without Colin standing there, camera in hand, capturing the absolute heart of our sport. He lived for the bike riders, the dust and the family we build out in the dirt. Colin Stratford wasn’t just taking photos, he was keeping our history alive.

Sending all of our love, strength and deepest condolences to your family.

HONOURING COLIN STRATFORD (03/07/1965 - 21/05/2026)

If you have a memory of Colin trackside or a photo he took of you racing, please share it below. Let’s keep his smile on the dial.

A special thank you to Racing Fix Media for providing the beautiful remembrance photo of Colin doing what he loved most.

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