All roads lead to hill climb

BURY WEEKEND: While public access to the Valley Lakes precinct this weekend is limited to the Legend of the Lakes Hill Climb event via regular busses, the area will be a hive of activity as the major motorsport event takes place from today through to Sunday. Picture: BRETT KENNEDY

THE 12th annual Legend of the Lakes Hill Climb kicks off today, with competition set down until Sunday afternoon.

As a result some road closures are in place to allow the event to run smoothly.

Members of the public are advised there will be no private vehicle access to the Valley Lake recreational area (including the Valley Lake waters) from today through to Sunday.

Mount Gambier mayor Andrew Lee said the hill climb was a major event for the city.

“The Mount Gambier Legend of the Lakes has become an elite event on the national motor sport enthusiast’s calendar, which adds greatly to our motoring history and is a significant coup for the city as a regular major event,” he said.

“Access to the Valley Lake recreational area will be available to people attending the event by way of a regular shuttle bus service (today), Saturday and Sunday.”

The Valley Lake Conservation Park area will also be closed to public access, but Mr Lee said the disruption was necessary throughout the event.

“While council recognises some inconvenience to people wishing to use the Valley Lake on this particular weekend, council is pleased with the arrangements put in place by the South Eastern

Automobile Club and believes the benefits of the weekend will outweigh any inconvenience,” he said.

The admission fee for adults is $10 (single) and $15 (couple), with children under 14 free.

“I hope everyone goes along for a look and to support the organisers and competitors involved in the event,” Mr Lee said.