Circuses make way for new track

John Van Klaveren
THE start of work on a cycling track has ended a 40-year tradition of circuses at Belmont Common, according to Silvers Circus.
But Geelong’s council said the new facility would cater for a boom in bike racing after the city hosts world championships later this year.
Silvers Circus spokesperson Margaret Petersen said she had “hounded” City Hall to allow her one more visit to the site before it was closed to the amusement.
“I’ve know for the last 12 months that it would happen but I wanted to come in one more time – we get so many requests from the people of Geelong,” Ms Petersen said.
“But I was told it’s finished and we have to go to the showgrounds. I’m not happy.
“We’ve been going to that site for 40 years. It’s a shame.
“The management at Geelong Showgrounds is very accommodating and because of all the requests we’ll give the showgrounds a go. We’ve booked for this time next year.”
City Hall expects the purpose-built criterium circuit to be completed by August 31.
Construction of earthworks and drainage systems began this week.
Mayor Cr John Mitchell said the site’s Sunday market would be able to coexist on the land with the criterium.
The track was a key component in the lead-up to Geelong’s hosting of the 2010 World Road Cycling Championships, he said.
The facillity would allow cyclists to train and compete in a “safe, car-free environment”.
“The circuit will allow us to build on the increased interest in cycling that will inevitably arise after Geelong hosts the championships and confirm the Geelong region as one of Australia’s cycling capitals.”
Cr Mitchell said that the criterium circuit would benefit local cyclists while also serving as a regional venue for training and skills development.
“The circuit would be available for additional uses such as school programs, wheelchair sports and in-line skating,” he said.
The City contributed $1 million to the project and State Government $500,000.
Geelong Environment Council president Joan Lindros said in a letter to the Independent she was concerned about council developing “the green heart of Geelong”.
Council had effectively transferred public open space to single-use and “elite events”, Ms Lindros said.
“The philosophy of developing every open space for a particular sporting use or facility is flawed. There are values in the retention of green spaces for their landscape values and intrinsic value as well as informal and community use.”