Executive manager Derek Shotton takes us back to where the idea began, the people who helped bring it to life and the moment he realised jet boat racing could become a reality at Elmore.
When did the idea of bringing jet boat racing to Elmore first come about?
The opportunity first came about in March 2024, when the local tourism manager in our shire suggested we meet with the AFJSA team to explore whether there were opportunities for EFD.
How did EFD first become involved with AFJSA and the V8 Superboats?
We met with a group of AFJSA representatives in April 2024 and were impressed by their vision and desire to bring V8 Superboats back to Victoria.
Both Matt [Malthouse] and Justine [Roylance] were part of that original delegation, and I immediately sensed these were two people we could work with on such a challenging and ambitious project.
What was it about Elmore and the Events Centre that made it such a good fit?
Our knowledge and experience in running large events, combined with our in-house project skills to develop event spaces, made the Events Centre an excellent option.
The site itself also offered plenty of space, existing amenities, parking and roadways, a reliable water source and a sustainable water reuse option after each race.
The close proximity to large potential audiences in Shepparton, Echuca, Bendigo and Melbourne’s northern suburbs was another major advantage. With the exception of Melbourne’s northern suburbs, which are around 90 minutes away, our targeted audiences are all within an hour of the site.
There have been attempts to bring jet boat racing back to Victoria in the past. What made the Elmore opportunity different?
The combination of all those factors, coupled with a can-do attitude from our committee, made the difference.
Who were the key people involved in getting the idea off the ground?
I have been very lucky to have the members of our Executive Management Committee provide such tremendous support in getting this project to fruition.
What were some of the biggest challenges along the way?
The large amount of time we lost due to the weather has been one of the biggest challenges.
At what point did you realise the project was actually going to happen?
Probably about seven months after our first meeting with AFJSA.
My requests for in-kind support to build the track started coming back with much higher commitments of support than I dared to hope for. That saw the discussion change from,“How can we afford to do this?” to,“Hell, this is looking very achievable.”
What has the process of designing and developing the track been like?
It was very easy for us at EFD. We probably caused a few think-tank sessions for AFJSA, who then came up with the map layout they felt would make a good track.
The great team at 5D Surveying then developed all the files and GPS programming for the earthworks contractors.
I know the timeframe and changing conditions caused Kristian Hill, Rob Toller-Bond and Will Hamilton at 5D some hard days, but again, it was another example of how the great companies involved in this project went above and beyond for the benefit of what I think will be a tremendous community asset.
What does having jet boat racing at Elmore mean for the future of the sport in Victoria and the Elmore Events Centre?
In my mind, it means a long and successful presence at their new home at Elmore.
When you think back to that original conversation about bringing jet boats to Elmore, what does it mean to see the first event now becoming a reality?
My stress levels have been high over the last few months, and my first feeling when asked this question is one of relief — but quickly followed by pride.
I’m proud of our committee for having the foresight to support the project, proud that we have pulled it off, and proud to think we have put our community on the map yet again.
The Elmore region does pretty well for a small community.
