A FREESTYLE motocross club is in shock after a calculated arson attack in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Way South Militants Freestyle Entertainment president Jay Woolley awoke to find the club’s customised truck and trailer on fire in his Nunamara backyard about 4.30am.
A motorbike and motocross equipment were also stolen from Mr Woolley’s shed.
The club has spent hundreds of hours refurbishing the truck so it could be used to transport motorbikes to various events and promote the extreme sport to children.
WSM Freestyle’s future show dates – including a four-day event at the Royal Hobart Show in October – are now up in the air and the damage bill could exceed $80,000.
“We're trying to give the younger riders in the state a future in this.
“This could cost us more if we can’t turn up for our shows.”
WSM Freestyle has 30 members – the youngest is eight years old.
Mr Woolley – who has devoted his life to promoting the sport – has called on the community’s support to ensure the club’s dream of growing freestyle motocross in Tasmania does not die.
The 30-year-old is in the process of setting up a crowdfunding page, with the proceeds to go towards getting the club and its members back on their feet.
Mr Woolley said any financial donation, or donation of truck refurbishment material would be appreciated.
Hundreds of Facebook users have already rallied behind WSM Freestyle.
Mr Woolley’s Facebook status about the crime has been shared more than 1500 times.
Police are investigating.
Anyone with information should contact Launceston Criminal Investigation Branch on 131 444, or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000.
Anyone looking to donate can contact Mr Woolley by visiting www.wsmfreestyle.com, or on the club’s Facebook page WSM Freestyle Entertainment.
Originally published as Burnt out by The Examiner.