Dear fans,
I would like to update you on the state of play at The Bend and Mallala.
We implemented a set of robust processes that allowed us to navigate the last 10 weeks. We never closed our doors and instead, chose to continue to operate to provide our fans, members, supporters and enthusiasts with a safe place to enjoy motorsport. We are now in a good position to ramp up activity at both The Bend and Mallala in anticipation of the undoubted increase in participation in coming weeks, and hopefully a return to competitive motorsport in the very near future! The Bend and Mallala are open. Our website and social media channels provide frequent updates on activities available.
Firstly, we are excited to confirm that OTR The Bend 500 has been included in the revised Supercars calendar. Whilst the dates are unchanged, all rounds are currently scheduled as two-day events pending clarifications from authorities over coming weeks. Race formats are yet to be announced. It is our absolute priority to work towards holding and running the event as originally planned. We can be positive that with restrictions easing, and with 4 months to go until the event, there is every chance the event will run as originally planned!
We are working with Motorsport Australia on holding a round of the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championship later this year, as we are with all stakeholders of the International MotoFest to hold a competitive motorcycle event this year. In the short term, we are planning to host SA based competition events (more details soon) and when the borders eventually open I know there are many car clubs, and motoring enthusiasts itching to come and visit both The Bend and Mallala
Karting at The Bend continues to run in groups of 10, and it has been fantastic to see some incredible competitive spirit amongst the groups of families and friends who have visited, all desperate to outdo each other. We are really looking forward to a busy June long weekend, with great deals currently available at the BIG4 Holiday Park with kids karting free and by then we expect our FUEL Restaurant & Bar to be available for guests to dine in-house. The Rydges Pit Lane Hotel also remains open for business so everyone’s welcome for a quality meal and a beverage from June 5.
With SA’s more lenient restrictions, we’ve been able to continue to operate track days at a maximum of 10 people per day but I’m pleased to advise we are now able to open our bookings to allow up to 40 people per track day (including pit crew and subject to strict operational requirements). In the coming weeks, we will be adding a broader variety of experiences and activities to the weekly calendar including Driver and Hot Lap experiences. It was great to see two SA footballers compete in a motorsport activity while all other forms of sport have been virtually non existent! If you missed it, check it out here.
During this period we’ve also been working on some exciting new experiences, and a new feature at The Bend with details to be announced soon.
Thank you for your continued support, and patience, we really look forward to your next visit.
Dr. Sam Shahin,
Managing Director
The Bend Motorsport Park
Mallala Motorsport Park