Leading up to the world MX events

history of MANJIMUP 15000 - chapter 2: LEADING UP TO THE WORLD MOTOCROSS EVENTS IN THE 1990's

Photos: [Left] Riders on the startline for the 1992 Manjimup 15000, which was combined with the opening round of the Australian Motocross Championships and was a qualification for riders to make the Australian Motocross of Nations team; and [Right] flag marshall John Day in action (By Peter Kitchingman)

Manjimup 15000 beomes an auditon then dress rehearsal for MXoN's

World attention now on the Cosy Creek circuit in Manjimup

Following the success of the Manjimup 15000 throughout the 1980s—along with the growing international attention it attracted and Jeff Leisk’s standout performances in the 1989 500cc World Championship—Australia had firmly announced its arrival on the global motocross stage.

With the nation’s Motocross of Nations (MXoNs) results steadily improving, the idea of bringing a world-class event to Western Australia began to gather momentum. In 1988, Motorcycling WA (MWA) President Bevan Harewood began seriously exploring the concept.

Under the steady leadership of Manjimup 15000 event manager Trevor Holm, MWA shaped a bold proposal—a three-year campaign to secure the Motocross of Nations for Australia, and bring the world’s best riders to Western Australia.

The Cosy Creek circuit was nominated as the venue, with the final decision resting with the FIM – the sport’s governing body.

1991 Manjimup 15000 becomes a dress rehearsal for Australia's MXoN's bid

Officials travelled to Manjimup for the 1991 Manjimup 15000 to assess the bid firsthand. In preparation, key upgrades were made to the circuit. “Jim’s Jump” was reshaped into a safer tabletop, and the start gates were widened to accommodate 40 riders.

With FIM President Tage Magnusson in attendance, and the event celebrating its 10th anniversary, the stakes were higher than ever. Prize money surged to $36,000, attracting elite international talent, particularly from the United Kingdom.

British Champion Rob Herring claimed victory, overcoming fellow countryman James Dobb and Australia’s leading contenders. The event delivered exactly the statement required—soon after, the FIM officially confirmed Australia’s successful bid to host the 1992 Motocross of Nations.

The decision was historic. Australia became the first nation awarded the Motocross of Nations without previously hosting a motocross Grand Prix. It was also only the second time in the event’s 40-year history that it would be staged outside Europe, following Canada in 1969.

Photo: British riders James Dobb and Rob Herring with FIM President Tage Magnusson are welcomed at the 1991 Manjimup 15000 – By Peter Kitchingman

1992 Manjimup 15000 an audition for riders to make the Australia's MXoN's team

Photos: [Left to right] Three riders in action at the 1992 Manjimup 15000 who quaified for the Australian Motocross of Nations team – Jason Marshall (WA, Kawasaki 500cc class); Dale Britton (WA, Yamaha 250cc class) and Kim Ashkenazi (NSW, Suzuki 125cc class) – By Peter Kitchingman.

If the 1991 Manjimup 15000 served as an audition, then the 1992 event in June became a full-scale dress rehearsal—run in conjunction with the newly expanded multi-round Australian Motocross Championships. At the same time, Australian riders were competing not only for victory, but for selection in the national MXoN team for the 5-6 September 1992 historic showdown down under for the first time.

Western Australia’s Jason Marshall and Dale Britton finished first and second, securing positions in the 500cc and 250cc classes respectively. Rising star Kim Ashkenazi claimed the 125cc berth, completing the Australian Motocross of Nations team.

Behind the scenes, an army was taking shape. Hundreds of volunteers, officials, and organisers united under the guidance of Trevor Holm. Dedicated committees were formed across marketing and operations, all reporting to the man driving the vision forward.

Manjimup was no longer simply hosting an event—it was preparing to welcome the world.

Magic Manjimup 15000 MX documentary

AMX History is proud to announce its latest documentary – Magic Manjimup 15000 MX: 40 years history in one hour. Watch the 60 minute movie here.