A New Home and a Bright Beginning (1956) Five years after its initial planning, Brunswick Cycling Club relocated from Allard Park to Harrison Street in 1956. The track officially opened on 17 November, illuminated by fluorescent lights installed solely on the track—thanks to club legend Alf Walker, who generously donated his time and expertise to install them. The original track was notably wider than its later concrete version, allowing up to 12 riders to sprint side-by-side to the finish.​ Lighting the Way for Night Racing (1960) Night racing began in 1960, spearheaded by Henry Hill and George Nelson. An advanced lighting system of 180 fluorescent tubes replaced the original globes, making Brunswick the only lit velodrome in Melbourne outside Olympic Park. The first open race under lights was a fundraising carnival for the family of the late Dick Carson—a testament to the club’s enduring culture of generosity, still reflected today in stalwarts like Cam McFarlane and Dave Morgan.​ Traditions Take Root That same year, the iconic Thursday night motor pace training began, and on 28 October, the Mayor of Brunswick officially “switched on” the lights to launch Friday night racing. By the early 1970s, Harrison Street had become Melbourne’s premier venue for track racing, hosting major events previously held at Olympic Park. Though Northcote and Coburg later rose in prominence, Brunswick remained a vital hub for grassroots cycling.​ International Prestige and Local Passion (1970s–1980s) The 1970s saw world-class riders grace Harrison Street, including Giordano Turrini (Italy), Hugh Porter (UK), Ezio Cardi (Italy), Leijn Loevesijn (Netherlands), and Niels Fredborg (Denmark). In the 1980s, racing shifted to Wednesday evenings and Saturday afternoons. A tradition emerged: race at Brunswick in the afternoon, grab a quick bite, then race again at Northcote that night.Monday nights evolved into training sessions led by Ray Bowles and Alf Walker, where retired riders passed on wisdom to the next generation. These sessions continue today, blending experience and enthusiasm in a welcoming environment. ​Mentorship Through Madison Wednesday night racing introduced the “minute Madison,” pairing juniors with seniors to teach tactics and etiquette. Saturdays culminated in a one-hour club Madison, reinforcing the club’s commitment to mentorship and development.​ Racing Through the 90s The 1990s brought varied racing formats—Italian Pursuits, Points Races, Scratch, and Motorpace. Despite competition from Northcote, Harrison Street hosted successful Keirin series and championship events featuring stars like David Dew, Stephen Pate, Baden Cooke, Dylan Boone, Leigh de Luca, and Shane Collins. ​ A New Era with DISC (2000s Onward) With the opening of DISC, racing at Harrison Street declined, but the club’s reputation as a training ground for serious cyclists grew. Saturday racing continued, and Tuesday night club racing began at DISC. Cam McFarlane revived Thursday Motorpace, introducing three sessions: juniors at 35km/h, intermediates at 40km/h, and the “hour of power” at 45km/h—offering riders over 100km of midweek training.​ The Heart of the Club: Junior Clinic Founded by Henry Hill in 1948, the Junior Clinic has been a cornerstone of the club, originally created to support under-16 riders who couldn’t compete under the rules of the time. Today, the Clinic offers a fun, safe, and inclusive environment for children aged 4–16 to learn track cycling. Weekly summer sessions and monthly winter sessions focus on developing motor skills, confidence, and community.The Clinic embodies the spirit of Brunswick Cycling Club—free-spirited, inclusive, and deeply rooted in tradition. Generations of champions and mentors have passed through its ranks, ensuring the legacy continues.