Big Kart Track celebrates 30 years of operations

Leading Sunshine Coast attraction The Big Kart Track is celebrating its 30th year of operations this year.

Established in 1983 by Aime and Jacqueline Proost, the business moved on a generation when their daughter Mieke and her husband and current owner/manager Ferre de Deyne joined the business in 1989 after De Deyne arrived from Belgium to live on the Sunshine Coast.

Welcoming the 30 year milestone, Ferre de Deyne stated "what we have achieved over the past 30 years is quite a rare achievement in the volatile tourism industry and to do it under the ownership of one family is tremendously rewarding.

"However, it's important to note that we are 30 years young not old as we've continually updated the karts, the track and our facilities over the years in order to keep it fresh and challenging for our customers. It's been a massive investment but it's also been really rewarding to see the business grow and the way the Sunshine Coast community and tourists alike have embraced our venture.

"I've had a long history in the entertainment and tourism industry and my philosophy has always been based around giving people a unique experience, having fun and we top it off with great customer service. It's what we instill into all our staff and I firmly believe this has been the cornerstone of our success."

Ferre said the introduction of innovative on-site activities and events such as the hugely popular Bungy Bullet, corporate nights and the annual 'CEO v Celebrity' challenge continually reinforce the profile and brand values of The Big Kart Track.

Opening on 5th March 1983 with 25 karts, the go-kart business has consistently grown in size over the past three decades making it the largest commercial go-kart track in Australia - measuring 1.2 kilometres in length.

The Belgium born entrepreneur is well known among local business and tourism circles having served on a number of local tourism bodies and supporting numerous schools, charities and sporting teams.

A personal highlight for Ferre was being inducted into the Hall of Fame at the 2012 Sunshine Coast Multi Cultural Awards.

He recalls "I was really thrilled to be given that award, particularly as a previous winner was my good friend Terri Irwin. It's humbling the way the Sunshine Coast community has embraced me and recognised those who have come from other parts of the world to contribute to our community."

The Big Kart Track will be open every day over the Easter holidays from 9am until 10pm.

For more information visit www.bigkart.com.au