Mandurah hopes to host annual motorcycle meeting

The club is Australia’s largest social club of its kind, with more than 25,000 members across 136 clubs, some in countries like Germany, Vietnam, Norway and South Africa.

It is aimed at anybody over the age of 40 that holds a motorcycle license and their partners. 

The club holds their AGM every year between January and June in a different regional location across Australia, and attracts between 2,000 and 3,000 visitors every year.

The proposal to hold the 2020 AGM in Mandurah was raised during the City of Mandurah’s ordinary council meeting on Tuesday, and was approved unanimously by council.

It is anticipated the event would be held in late March 2020 before Easter, and would require a $40,000 contribution by the City to be included in a future budget. 

According to the report presented to council, the club’s base camp could be set up at the Peelwood sports complex in Halls Head, with the main general meeting event being held at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre (MPAC).

During their meetings, the club members attend road safety forums and meet and greet social meals, participate in an opening grand parade and attend a church service before driving back home.

City of Mandurah councillor Dave Schumacher said he was happy to support the initiative.

He said the club was well-known for doing charitable works, and would bring an economic plus to the City.

However, the initiative also raised some concerns by councillor Lynn Rodgers, who hoped the City would have enough accommodation available for the visitors.

“We just don’t want them to go away with a bad impression,” she said.

It is hoped the meeting would increase regional employment and contribute to the region’s tourism industry.