Stony Creek Go Karts - A pitstop for the fast and curious

A PITSTOP FOR THE FAST AND THE CURIOUS

There’s nothing like a bit of friendly competition. And there’s no better place to compete than at Stony Creek Go Karts.

The entertainment venue was established in 2008 by Graeme McCaughan and Kim Holness. Twelve months later, Graeme’s son Callum purchased Kim’s shares, and three years ago, Callum took over sole ownership. He continued to grow the successful business, attracting hundreds of thrill seekers and racing enthusiasts from across the state every year.

Whilst Callum has been unable to race due to a knee-injury a few years ago, he looked forward to the day he could get back on the go kart and introduce his children Connor and Emily to the family sport.

Despite not being able to race, he loves providing locals and tourists with a thrilling day out. “Dad enjoyed motorsports his entire life and had wanted to create this business for a long time,” Callum said. “There’s not many other tracks around, and with Stony Creek being in close proximity to the South Gippsland beaches, it really was the ideal location for it.”

Based on the South Gippsland Highway, between Meeniyan and Foster, Stony Creek go karts is one of a handful of go kart facilities in Victoria. The venue features an 800metre circuit and provides hired go karts which reach speeds of up to 70km an hour.

Members can participate in the ‘Bring Your Own Kart and Club’ day, which is held once a month. There is also racing for members of Stony Creek Go Karts race club once a month. If you aren’t already member but want to participate, membership can be purchased on arrival.

“We have about 40 or 50 members who regularly attend the Bring Your Own Kart and Club days” Callum said.

A GIPPSLAND GO KART VENUE HAS BEEN ATTRACTING AMATEUR & EXPERIENCED RACERS FOR OVER A DECADE

Words by Lia Spencer | Photos by Doug Pell

“Covid and restrictions obviously impacted our races the last two years, but I am looking forward to having everything return to as normal as possible this Summer.”

And whilst there are many familiar faces who frequent the track, there are a lot of curious amateurs who are keen to test their skills.

“We have regular members who come to our monthly race days. Many are experienced- some are state and national champions. And then we have others, some as young as four who come out and give it a try,” Callum said. “So, we have a higher-up class of racing, but we also cater to entry level racing. We like to operate at a grass-roots level so everyone can participate.”

Youngsters often have less fear than adults, but sometimes, it can be quite intimidating. Thus, many parents take a back-seat and act as the pit-crew for their little racers-helping and cheering from the sidelines. But often, mums and dads are wanting to get involved too, and they either compete against their own kids or jump behind the wheel for the senior-level races.

“It really is a family-orientated sport,” Callum said.

Besides action on the track, guests can also enjoy foods and drinks at the onsite licensed café, games facilities, racing simulators, and a function centre which caters for up to groups of sixty people- perfect for family reunions, birthday parties, buck and hen’s events and corporate functions.

“We get quite a few businesses holding Christmas functions here,” Callum said. “It’s really good for team-building, but mostly, it’s just a lot of fun.” Pre-booking is essential.

For more information, visit www.stonycreekgokarts.com.au

CALLUM MCCAUGHAN