BATHURST Regional Council is going all the way to the top of the Australian political ladder this week to get things moving on a second circuit and associated commercial precinct at Mount Panorama.
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Mayor Gary Rush has talks with cabinet secretary Senator Arthur Sinodinos organised regarding the project.
However, Cr Rush is also looking to lock in treasurer Scott Morrison and deputy prime minister Warren Truss for discussions because of the enormity of the $50 million project being proposed.
“We are due to meet with Mr Sinodinos on Thursday, but if we get a call saying the treasurer or deputy PM can see us on Tuesday or Wednesday, we will ensure we can be there,” the mayor said.
“The second track has now evolved into something much bigger than we envisaged. Apart from a circuit that can host big motorcycling events, manufacturers’ testing days and club days, it’s a twofold thing and is also about building associated commercial and industrial infrastructure.
“The aim is to attract businesses into relocating to the Mount Panorama precinct.
“It’s not just about a second track ... it’s about economic development and jobs growth in the Central West.
“What we are taking to sell to Canberra is the whole package.
“That’s our pitch and we think it must have some real appeal.
“We will stress that we are a regional centre which is prepared to help itself. And with the support of government we can make it happen.
“There is a determination to make this happen, but there needs to be support and we are sure the federal and state governments will be very interested in coming to the party because of what this could do for Bathurst and the Central West.”
Cr Rush said the funding could be made up of $20 million from the Federal Government, $20 million from the NSW Government and $10 million from Bathurst Regional Council.
“We know Warren Truss is keen to support economic development, especially in regional areas of the country,” he said.
“The thing is Mount Panorama is an iconic place and sells itself.
“A development like this has got the credentials to bring added prosperity to the region for many years to come.
“It’s the dawn of a whole new era for the Mount.”
