The Ultimate Backyard: Why the Best Sport Controllers Are Landowners with Private Tracks

 

At COA, we know that the heart of Australian motocross isn't always at a commercial stadium—it's often in the back paddock of a private property.

There is a growing trend among our members: the shift toward becoming a COA Sport Controller. We've noticed a specific preference within this group—many of our most successful Controllers are landowners who have built their own private motocross tracks for the exclusive use of friends and family.

But why is this "private track" model becoming the gold standard for Sport Controllers? It comes down to three things: Control, Community, and Coverage.

1. The Freedom of Your Own Dirt

When you own the land, you own the experience. Landowners who act as Sport Controllers have the unique ability to design tracks that suit their skill level and the specific needs of their "inner circle." There's no waiting in line at a public track and no dealing with over-crowded heats.

By holding a Sport Controller Sanction, these landowners transform their private hobby into a professionally recognised activity. It allows them to manage their "Invite-Only" sessions with the authority and structure of an official sporting body, ensuring that safety standards are met without losing the "backyard" feel that makes riding with mates so special.

2. Protecting Your Legacy (and Your Assets)

The biggest hurdle for any landowner with a private track has always been liability. We all want to invite friends and family over for a ride, but in today's world, the "ride at your own risk" handshake isn't enough to protect your property or your future.

The COA Sport Controller program was built specifically to bridge this gap. When a landowner is sanctioned as a Sport Controller:

• They gain access to tailored $20M Public Liability insurance through the COA Insurance Sanction.
• The sanction provides a legal framework that recognises the activity as a "sanctioned sport," which is a critical distinction for insurance purposes.
• It protects the landowner ensuring that a fun weekend doesn't turn into a legal nightmare that puts the family farm or home at risk.

3. Strengthening the Family Bond

Motocross is more than a sport; it's a lifestyle. We see Sport Controllers using their private tracks to teach the next generation—children and grandchildren—how to ride in a controlled, safe, and private environment.

By being the "Controller" of their own domain, landowners ensure that everyone on the track follows the rules, wears the right gear, and respects the land. It's about building a community of riders who value the privilege of having access to private soil.

How to Get Sanctioned

If you're a landowner with a track (or plans to build one), becoming a COA Sport Controller is the best way to legitimise your setup. It shows you're serious about safety and serious about protecting your land.

The process is designed to be straightforward for property owners. By joining the COA community, you aren't just getting insurance; you're joining a network of like-minded Aussies who believe in the right to enjoy the great outdoors on their own terms.

Ready to protect your track and your mates? View the Sport Controller Sanction Details Here

COA (Camping, Outdoors and Accommodation Cooperative Ltd) is a community-owned organisation dedicated to protecting the rights of landowners and outdoor enthusiasts across Australia.