DANIEL SANDERS | FIGHTING FOR OUR SPORT

For more than forty years, our family farm in Three Bridges has been more than just rows of apple trees. It’s been a sanctuary for motorbikes. A place where kids learned to ride without worrying about getting chased out, where clubs ran races and fundraisers, where juniors lined up for coaching days, and where locals could spend a Sunday doing laps instead of laps around the pub. It’s one of the last private spots in the country where this kind of grassroots dirt bike culture is still alive.

It gave me the start that led me all the way to Dakar wins, and it’s done the same for plenty of Yarra Ranges riders who’ve gone on to make a living out of racing. It’s brought thousands of people through the valley, putting much-needed dollars into local businesses and keeping our sport alive at the community level.

And now, the Yarra Ranges Council has told us: “No existing use rights. Stop immediately.”

After more than two years of back-and-forth, despite four decades of evidence, despite Motorcycling Australia backing us, despite the fact we’ve been running events here since 1982, the Council has decided our proof isn’t enough. No planning permit, no more racing. That’s it. End of story.

So, we’re taking this to VCAT. Four or five times a year, this property comes alive with bikes, families, volunteers, and community spirit. Without this track, I wouldn’t be standing where I am today. I wouldn’t be a Dakar winner. That’s the reality.

Grassroots venues like this are rare. Every year, more riding areas disappear, and every time one does, we lose a little bit more of our sport’s soul. This isn’t about some dodgy business trying to make a quick buck – it’s about a family opening their gates, keeping people safe and legal, and giving back to a sport and a community that’s given us everything.

So here’s the call: we need help. If you know a gun VCAT or planning law expert who knows existing use rights inside out, get in touch. Comment, tag, DM me, or send an email to daniel@chucky11.com.

The objective is simple: we want to work with the Yarra Ranges Council, not against them. We want this property to keep hosting come-and-try days, club races, fundraisers, and community events. We want it to keep creating pathways for the next generation of riders.

The farm has always been about more than apples. It’s about giving people a place to ride, to learn, to grow, and to dream. And we’re not about to let that disappear without a fight.