The BMW Drivers Club Melbourne has held a successful ‘Come and Try’ day at Broadford State Motorcycle Sports Complex, as the club honoured the memory of a recently passed club member, Alex Baxter.
 
More than 60 entrants were entered in the event, putting a vast range of vehicles to the test, as they pushed their respective cars in a safe, controlled environment.
 
As part of the Come and Try Day experience, drivers of all skill-levels were able to use their track time to learn the ins and outs of the circuit racing with the aid of some experienced instructors at hand.  
 
Not only did the event allow drivers to gain valuable experience behind the wheel, but junior officials were also given the opportunity to practice within a relaxed atmosphere and a stress-free environment to observe the different levels of operations both on track and in race control.  
 
Although the track action presented as a non-timed event, all participants were able to head home with a smile on their face with straight cars and more experience either in the car or as an official.


BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Vice President, Jo Mawson was thrilled with how the day turned out and the opportunities they were able to provide to all that were involved.  
 
“Dedicating the Come and Try event to Alex and holding it at the location of his first ever track day is a great way of allowing his legacy to live on,” Mawson said.  
 
“The day provided plenty of opportunities for drivers to gain some valuable track experience, for young officials to get a taste of what it's like in the world of officiating in motorsport and to hand out some well-deserved awards as well.
 
“From my perspective, everyone went home with a big smile on their face, and we can't wait to keep providing more opportunities like this one going forward.”
 
The venue will continue to host the Alex Baxter Memorial Round from 2023 onwards as it was the location of Alex’s very first track day.
 
One recipient will also be awarded with the Alex Baxter Award every year, with this year's honours going to Richard Van Essen, while volunteer official Adrian White was presented with the Fabulous Officials Certificate.
 
White received the honour for his commitment and dedication to club-run events despite being only five weeks out of a total knee replacement surgery.
 
The next BMW Drivers Club ‘Come and Try’ day will be held at the Broadford State Motorcycle Sports Complex on 5 August.