Story courtesy Coast Lines Magazine

Words: David O’Brien

Since 1922, the Levis Motorcycle Club has captivated audiences with its adrenaline-charged beach races, featuring a mix of historic and modern bikes. Over its 102-year evolution, this iconic event has stayed true to its roots, offering an exhilarating spectacle on the 1.6km stretch of sand between Silver Sands and Sellicks Beach.

The highlight is a daring 180-degree hairpin turn at each end of the course.

Brenton Matters, organiser of the 2025 Sellicks Beach Races and President of Motorcycling South Australia, paints a vivid picture of the sidecar action.

“Sidecar races on the beach are awesome! We have a father-and-daughter team who are exceptional at what they do. They’ll come down the beach at close to 100 miles an hour, throw the bike sideways and slide past the barrel, the engine roaring as they power through the corner. It’s truly spectacular to watch.”

He joined the event’s leadership in 2015 after a call from a local enthusiast, and reigniting the races in 2017 was a passion project. As a historic bike aficionado, Brenton is deeply invested in this biannual spectacle, which has become a must-see event on the Fleurieu, with a growing national reputation.

Each event draws around 3,500 spectators and features an average of 170–175 motorcycles and sidecars, all meticulously organised by just 40 volunteers.

“They’re either Levis members or from other historic race clubs,” he says, underscoring the community-driven nature of the event.

The economic impact is significant, with an estimated $4.7 million pumped into the local economy through food, drink, and accommodation spending. Despite its success, the event maintains a modest footprint.

“We’re limited by the size of the pits, which are in the car park of the Surf Life Saving Club,” Brenton says.

Environmental and cultural heritage protection is also a top priority, with the event carefully scheduled to avoid disrupting the breeding season of the Hooded Plovers that nest on the beach.

For competitors, the race is governed by Motorcycle Australia regulations, focusing on Historic Road Classes that span pre-war and post-war categories up to 1963. Entries are judged on whether they embody the spirit of the event.

“Competitors send in photos and details of their bikes for consideration, and the race committee reviews them,” Brenton says.

Spectators can expect an incredible line-up this year, including classes for under 250cc, 500cc, and open bikes, as well as sidecar scratch races. The finale will see a breathtaking Top 10 shootout featuring the fastest bikes on the beach, regardless of era.

Despite its popularity, the organisers are committed to sustainability.

“We don’t aim to make the event bigger every year,” Brenton says. “Instead, we focus on maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere—a picnic-style event where you can dig your toes in the sand, enjoy great racing, share some laughs, and relax with food and drinks.”

The Sellicks Beach Historic Races will take place on March 15–16. For more information, visit levismcc.asn.au.

Photo Brenton Matters.