The state’s top politician is coming to town after accepting an invitation from mayor Gary Rush to see firsthand what the V8 Supercar action at Mount Panorama is all about.

Mr Baird will be a guest in Bathurst Regional Council’s suite on the first floor of the pit lane complex.

And to ensure he’s in pole position to get in the Premier’s ear, Cr Rush has ensured he’ll be sitting next to Mr Baird during the mayoral luncheon.

Cr Rush told the Western Advocate yesterday the Premier’s office got back to him late last week to confirm his presence in Bathurst on race day.

“We’re absolutely delighted he’s decided to come up to see firsthand what the Great Race is all about,” he said. 

“It does present an opportunity for us to do a few things, firstly to thank him for the $5 million from the state government to get things moving on the second track proposal for Mount Panorama and for the upgrade works which are about to start on the Great Western Highway at Kelso.

“There is also the chance to further discuss our plans for Bathurst in terms of developing major capital works and infrastructure projects over the next few days.

“Obviously the continuing support to bring the second circuit to fruition, developing an entertainment and cultural precinct in the city, stage two of our Adventure Playground and the raising of the Ben Chifley Dam wall again are all on my list,” Cr Rush said.

The mayor said he is also keen to showcase what a significant event the Bathurst 1000 is to the Premier, not only for the city, but for the Central West. 

Hopes for a second circuit also adds further value to the state’s economy, with potential to host Superbikes and Moto GP races.

Bathurst MP Paul Toole said yesterday he believes it will be Mr Baird’s first time in Bathurst for the Great Race.

“Apart from meeting with the mayor, he will also catch up with representatives from the V8 Supercar organisation and be shown all the great facilities at the track and improvements that have been made in recent times,” he said.

“The Premier said he loves motorsport and the V8s. This clearly showed – when he was the treasurer he handed down the Budget which included $5 million for the second circuit.

“I know he loves running and surfing and he was there to watch Souths win last weekend,” Mr Toole said.