Community Recognition Statement for Illabo Motorsport Park by Steph Cooke MP, Member for Cootamundra

On March 19, 2026, Ms Steph Cooke MP, Member for Cootamundra, presented a Written Community Recognition Statement to the NSW Parliament recognising the efforts of Kerry Phelan, the founder of Gasworks Motorsport Inc, in creating “The Heart of Vintage Speedway” at Illabo Motorsport Park. Ms Cooke also acknowledged the efforts of our entire volunteer team.

Community Recognition Statement as listed in Hansard

Ms STEPH COOKE (Cootamundra) — Illabo Motorsport Park began in 2012, thanks to local resident Kerry Phelan. Kerry gathered community members to help create "The Heart of Vintage Speedway." What started as an empty paddock now hosts more than a dozen events each year, with participants from age 6 to over 80.

Today, the Motorsport Park is home to several clubs, such as the Vintage Speedway Club, Speedway Karts, Car Club, and Khanacross. The park's main goal is to build community and support young people. The park promotes Women Active in Motorsports, with girls and women participating as drivers, support crew, track officials, flag marshals', scrutineers and emergency first responders.

Events held at the Illabo Motorsport Park attract participants, their families and many visitors, giving a significant boost to the local and regional economy. Congratulations to Kerry and all the volunteers who help keep the motor sport community together and thriving in Illabo.

Community Recognition Statement from Steph Cooke MP

Gasworks’ Response

23 June 2026

Ms Steph Cooke MP

Member for Cootamundra

Parliament of New South Wales

Dear Steph,

Re: Community Recognition Statement – Illabo Motorsport Park

On behalf of the Committee and members of Gasworks Motorsport Inc., I would like to sincerely thank you for your Community Recognition Statement presented in the Legislative Assembly Hansard on 19 March 2026 acknowledging the achievements and contribution of Illabo Motorsport Park.

Your generous words recognising the growth of our club since its inception in 2012, and the efforts of our many volunteers, are greatly appreciated. What began as a vision to create "The Heart of Vintage Speedway" has only been possible through the dedication of countless community members who have given their time, skills and enthusiasm to build and maintain this unique facility.

We are particularly grateful for your acknowledgement of our focus on encouraging young people into motorsport, promoting opportunities for women in motorsport, and creating a family-friendly environment that welcomes participants of all ages and backgrounds.

It is especially rewarding to know that the contribution our events make to the Illabo, Junee and wider Riverina communities has been recognised in the Parliament of New South Wales. This recognition belongs not only to our club, but also to every volunteer, competitor, official, sponsor and supporter who has played a part in our journey.

Thank you once again for your continued support of regional communities and grassroots motorsport.

Your recognition of Illabo Motorsport Park and Gasworks Motorsport Inc. is a tremendous honour and will serve as an inspiration to our members and volunteers as we continue to develop opportunities for future generations.

Yours sincerely,

Kerry Phelan

Founder and Secretary

Gasworks Motorsport Inc.