Image: Russell Colvin.

Motorcycling Australia has announced Matt Barton will compete in the Moto3 category at the Phillip Island grand prix next month as a wildcard entry.

Despite being a non-finisher in his debut appearance last year due to an engine failure, Barton is using his experience from the event to ensure his preparations will allow him to finish the grand prix with a positive result.

“Being a two-time wildcard is better than being a one-time wildcard rider and it’s pretty exciting to be taking to the track again this year. Coming in to 2016 I am in a very different position to where I was last year.” Barton explained.

“Just from the experience of last year it has given us a bit more of an insight as to how to come in to it this year, and how to structure and approach the event when we are there. With all that in mind it should give us a better end result.”

Representing his title sponsor Suus, the 20-year-old will use the upcoming GP to further his experience against an international field as he anticipates racing in Spain full-time next year.

“This year was purely the case of spending the time finding funding and spending the time preparing myself and preparing all other aspects that will be going in to the next couple of months at the end of this year,” he continued. “We are hoping to go over to Spain and do the final round of the CEV, and will leave all the bikes over there ready for next year.”

The 2016 Michelin Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix will take place at the Victorian circuit on 23 October.