Car club grants to keep motors running

Friday, 27 September 2024

The South Australian Car Club Program is tuning up for a third round of grants to drive the ambitions and passions of motoring enthusiasts across the state.

As part of the State Government’s commitment to accelerating the growth of motoring communities, $500,000 in grants will be available for local car and motorcycle clubs to fuel their future plans.

The $2 million program began in 2023 with 128 clubs since sharing in $1 million to kickstart infrastructure projects, host events and activities, and improve operations.

Some of the initiatives to receive funding include a youth driver education program, club room upgrades, track improvements, an international motorcycle rally and a four-wheel-drive skills training day.

The second round of grants, announced in July 2024, is helping 72 clubs shift their operations up a gear to encourage broader participation in motorsport, boost safety and celebrate historic milestones.

The Sporting Car Club of SA and the Walkerville All Cars Club Inc will use their funding to improve safety for participants with track improvements and a new rally control camera system, respectively.

Events given a funding boost include Volksvest, which will see more than 120 Beetles and Kombis cruise to Modbury in November, hosted by the Volks Enthusiasts Club of SA. The Barossa Valley Ford Club will use its grant to purchase event marquees while the Glitter Gang Drift Club will hold a training day to boost female involvement.

There are more than 200 recognised motoring clubs across South Australia, with almost 46,000 vehicles registered under the conditional registration scheme, comprising a mix of historic, individually constructed, left-hand drive and street rod vehicles.

Round three of grants will provide clubs with funding to build capacity through programs and off-road initiatives, upgrade infrastructure and equipment, and host activities and events.

Eligible clubs must be a not-for-profit organisation operating for 12 months or longer. Applications for round three open 30 September and close 13 December 2024.

Successful applicants will be announced in 2025. For further information and to apply, visit the SA Car Club Program.