The Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS) and MotorSports NT (MSNT) have further cemented their partnership and will continue to work closely on a number of projects in the future.
The recognition of Territorian champions within the Territory is one of those projects CAMS and MSNT had discussed, with confirmation a Motor Sports NT Awards night will be held in the next 12 months.
Both organisations have now agreed there was a need to recognise the Champions of NT motor sport in the Territory.
Previously award winners from CAMS would have to travel to South Australia for a combined awards night, but CAMS CEO Eugene Arocca said the move would allow the NT’s best further recognition in their home state and also provide a more “local feel” for the annual event.
“CAMS is committed to working closely with our affiliated clubs, and MotorSports NT, to ensure that the sport and our many CAMS licence holders are given credit locally and in front of friends and family in their own state,” Arocca said.
“We are thrilled to be working with MSNT on further improving the sport’s reach in the Territory so those who want to experience motor sport are given every chance. We have approached our clubs and they are all very supportive.”
Motor Sport NT President Mark Teakle supported the initiative.
“Motor sport in the Northern Territory is extremely healthy and it’s our aim to ensure that we actively grow the sport, and it receives the recognition it deserves,” Teakle said.
The awards night will be jointly funded by CAMS and MSNT, with the date to be confirmed in the near future.
CAMS and MSNT have also committed to improving safety and continued investment in training and support.
“MotorSports NT is fortunate to be recognised as the Peak Body for Territory motor sports and we have excellent relations with our Department of Sport and Recreation and importantly with our Territory Government,” Teakle added.
“We also recognise CAMS’ expertise when it comes to the regulation of four-wheeled motor sport.”
Arocca echoed Teakle’s sentiments and said there was funding support available from both CAMS and MSNT.
“We are committed to supporting local motor sport and both organisations having funding opportunities for affiliates, with CAMS providing funding to clubs around Australia through the Club Development Fund and MSNT via its funding program, which provides significant financial contribution to the sport,” Arocca said.
“It’s important that any funds allocated by either organisations are retained within the sport, to ensure continued investment in officials training and support.”
Teakle said MotorSports NT has been approached by a few affiliates in relation to private entities who are offering event insurance, but said participants and event organisers needed to understand the full details of any policy.
“It is our view that Northern Territory clubs should carefully consider where their money is actually ending up, and what insurance and support they will receive from these organisations,” Teakle said.