LOBBYING for a $20 million helping hand from the Federal Government for the proposed second track at Mount Panorama moves to the nation’s capital today.
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Representatives from Bathurst Regional Council, led by mayor Gary Rush, are due to hold talks with cabinet secretary Arthur Sinodinos to put a case for the funding.
The $50 million vision for the famous mountain circuit is for a dedicated track for motorbike racing, and to host manufacturers’ testing days and car club meets, and associated industrial and commercial infrastructure for businesses to relocate to the precinct.
Council believes the venture can get off the ground if the NSW Government is also prepared to chip in $20 million.
Council’s contribution would be $10 million.
Member for Calare John Cobb, who is helping with the push for the second track, says he has spoken with treasurer Scott Morrison about the project in recent days, showing off Bathurst’s plans.
Mr Cobb intends to brief Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull about the project during the next sitting of parliament.
“The project is an exciting opportunity for the Bathurst community to build on their already world-class motorsport reputation,” Mr Cobb said.
“The current circuit already brings huge benefits to the region, with the Bathurst 1000 and 12 Hour attracting spectators from across Australia and competitors from all over the globe.
“The second track would not only host motorcycling events and club days, but attract commercial and industrial infrastructure on the track.
“This project is not just about building a new circuit, but about creating opportunities in Calare for business and for job-seekers.”
Cr Rush said there had been hopes to include Mr Morrison and deputy prime minister Warren Truss in the talks, but as of yesterday there had been no news as to their availability.
“This is all about economic growth in regional Australia and we believe what is being proposed ticks all the boxes,” Cr Rush said.
“Here we are, a community from Bathurst in the Central West which is prepared to help itself and develop a precinct that will create jobs as well as drawing people from far and wide to the region.
“The fact is that Mount Panorama sells itself and we want to tap into that reputation with this development.
“The increasing popularity of the 12 Hour race is taking the name of Bathurst to a world-wide audience and not many regional centres have that advantage for marketing.”
