Go Kart Club of Victoria

We recently took the kids for a day of racing at the Go Kart Club of Victoria, and it was such a fun, adrenaline-fueled outing! This isn't your average indoor, electric go-kart track; it's a proper outdoor circuit located right in Port Melbourne. The club is actually one of the oldest and most well-known in Australia, and you can feel that authentic racing vibe the moment you arrive. They host everything from serious competitive racing events to "Arrive and Drive" sessions for the general public, which is what we did. It’s a fantastic place to give the kids a taste of real motorsport in a controlled environment, with proper karts on a professional-grade track.

Age Appropriateness

One of the first things I checked was who could actually get behind the wheel. For the public "Arrive and Drive" sessions, they have specific karts and requirements. Generally, kids need to be at least 12 years old and meet a minimum height requirement of 150cm to drive the regular karts. This is a firm rule for safety reasons, so it's best to measure your older kids before you promise them a drive! They also offer dual-seater karts where a younger child (usually 4-10 years old) can ride as a passenger with an adult who is at least 18. This was a perfect solution for our family, as our youngest could still experience the thrill of being on the track without having to drive.

The Highlights (Pros)

First off, the track itself is a massive highlight. It's an impressive outdoor circuit, which feels so much more exciting than a small indoor track. The karts are gas-powered and feel seriously quick, which was a huge hit with my teenager. The whole operation feels very professional. Safety is clearly a top priority; they provide all the necessary gear, including helmets and race suits, and the pre-race briefing was thorough and easy for the kids to understand. The staff were fantastic—really patient with the kids and great at explaining how to handle the karts safely. The booking process online was straightforward, which is always a bonus for busy parents.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

The biggest thing to be aware of is the cost. It's definitely a special occasion activity rather than a cheap weekend outing. The "Arrive and Drive" sessions are priced per session (usually around 10 minutes), and if you have a couple of kids who want to do multiple rounds, it adds up quickly. Because it's an outdoor track, you are completely at the mercy of Melbourne's weather. A rainy day can lead to cancellations or a very slippery track, so it's essential to check the forecast. Also, it can get very busy, especially on weekends and school holidays. This means you might have a bit of a wait between your sessions, so be prepared with snacks and drinks to keep everyone happy.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Book in Advance: I can't stress this enough. Don't just show up, especially on a weekend. Book your sessions online to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
• Dress Appropriately: All drivers must wear fully enclosed shoes, so no sandals or thongs. Long pants and a long-sleeved shirt are also recommended for extra protection.
• Parking: There is on-site parking available, which makes life much easier when you're trying to wrangle excited kids out of the car.
• Sun Protection is a Must: Being an outdoor venue, there's a lot of sun exposure. Make sure you pack hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses for everyone, even for those just watching from the sidelines.
• Manage Expectations: Prepare the kids for the fact that their time on the track is in short sessions. A 10-minute session feels fast when you're driving, but the waiting time in between can feel long for little ones.
• Check for Deals: Keep an eye on their website for any special offers or family packages, which might make the day a bit more affordable.