A FREESTYLE motocross club targeted by an arsonist earlier this week has received thousands of dollars in donations and dozens of offers of assistance following the incident.
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The culprit snuck onto his property about 4.30am, lit the blaze and took off with one of the club’s motorbikes and motocross safety gear.
The damage and theft could leave the club more than $80,000 out-of-pocket, and it places the club’s future show dates in jeopardy.
Since Wednesday, however, the club has been inundated with support, Mr Woolley said on Friday.
A crowdfunding page started by the club has raised more than $7500 by 48 people in a day, and the page has been shared all over the internet 1000 times.
“It’s been completely overwhelming,” Mr Woolley said.
“I’m humbled that so many people are behind us. We’ve had so many people offering donations and their skills.”
WSM Freestyle has 30 members, the youngest is eight years old.
I’m humbled that so many people are behind us.
- Jay Woolley, WSM Freestyle Entertainment
The group has been riding and performing public displays since 2006 in an attempt to grow the extreme sport in Tasmania.
WSM Freestyle is currently booked to perform over four days at the Royal Hobart Show in October, but the arson leaves a cloud of doubt hanging over the engagement because the truck and trailer are vital to the group’s travel itinerary.
Despite the crime, Mr Woolley said things are already looking more positive for the club.
“(Saturday) we start work on the rebuild.
“Tasmania has so many people who are willing to help. We’re going to do our best and go from there.”
WSM Freestyle club members and members of the Launceston community will meet at Mr Woolley’s Nunamara home on Saturday to start repairs on the torched truck and trailer.
Police are investigating the arson.
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.