Darwin-based international standard Motocross Grand Prix track unveiled

The NT’s first international standard Motocross Grand Prix track has been completed as Darwin prepares for its debut on the Motocross World Championship calendar. Watch the video

The Northern Territory’s first international standard Motocross Grand Prix track has been completed as Darwin prepares for its debut on the Motocross World Championship calendar.

Australia’s leading motocross builders Protraxx designed, and constructed the 1.6km track at Hidden Valley following foundational work from Sitzler.

The track features 22 corners, 21 jumps, a 90m start straight, rolling waves, a triple step-up, and 30m jumps.

In the final stage of the project, 46,000 cubic metres of soil were moved in 25 days, which is the equivalent of more than 1,930 truckloads.

It opens the way for the FIM Motocross World Championship’s return to Australia for the first time in 24 years when it touches down in Darwin from September 19-21.

Motorcycling NT chief executive Cilla Thomas, NTMEC Chair Penny Priest, Motorcycling Australia chief executive Peter Doyle, Protraxx owner and director Josh Proctor NTMEC executive director Aimee Luxton and Minister Marie-Clare Boothby at the track completion ahead of the MXGP in Darwin.

The event is expected to inject $20.9 million into the Territory economy each year until 2029.

Motorcycling Australia Chief Executive Peter Doyle said the build up to the MXGP has been huge.

“The anticipation has gone to another level with the official unveiling of this magnificent grand prix layout,” he said.

“It’s no shrinking violet either: it’s been engineered to provide the ultimate challenge for all riders, from the MXGP elite to the juniors who will be competing in the MA Motocross State Challenge.”

Major Events and Tourism and Hospitality minister Marie-Clare Boothby said the track completion was a significant milestone ahead of next month’s event.

“With just under three weeks until the gates open, excitement is building among motorsport fans locally, nationally, and internationally,” Ms Boothby said.

“We’re getting things done, creating new opportunities, and delivering on our commitment to rebuild the economy and restore our unique Territory lifestyle.

NTMEC Chair Penny Priest, Motorcycling Australia chief executive Peter Doyle, Minister Marie-Clare Boothby, Protraxx owner and director Josh Proctor and Motorcycling NT chief executive Cilla Thomas.

“This follows another huge weekend of motorsport in the Territory, with Nitro Up North bringing two nights of nitro-fuelled drag racing action to Hidden Valley.”

About 32,000 attendances are expected across the three days travelling from across the country as well as international visitors from the USA, UK and New Zealand.

“Now’s the time to grab your tickets and be part of the excitement,” Ms Boothby said.

“We’re showcasing the Top End as a top-tier destination for sporting events, set to be broadcast to an audience of 700 million across 100 countries and attracting riders, teams and spectators from around the world.”

Protraxx director Josh Proctor said they were proud to deliver a Darwin based track that meets international standards.

“It has been a significant effort from our team, and everyone involved in the lead-up to this build,” he said.

“The result is a world-class circuit designed to challenge the best riders in the world and provide fans with an unforgettable racing experience.”

Originally published as Darwin-based international standard Motocross Grand Prix track unveiled