New Motorsport Complex for South Australia

Forum discussion:
—> http://aussieexotics.com/forum/events-and-racing/garden-island-t1092.0.html

From:
—> http://www.messengerwest.com.au/article/2008/01/22/3532_west_news.html

Motorsport mecca

Adam Todd

A MULTI-million dollar motorsport hub could be built on Garden Island, which is one of four sites being considered by a private consortium.

Consortium spokeswoman Anna Micheel told the Portside Messenger the idea had been in the planning for about 12 months although she would not disclose the names of the private backers or the three northern suburbs sites also under consideration.

“We have backers, we have a plan, we just need suitable land,” she said.

“It is essential for the success of this for it to be close to the CBD but far enough away from residents.”

Ms Micheel a former manager of Adelaide International Raceway at Virginia said it would be a multi-purpose track capable of hosting a range of motorsport categories.

She said it would be loosely modelled on the Kwinana Motorplex in Perth and involved “many millions of dollars”.

Ms Micheel said such a venue would be a much-needed boost to the state’s motorsport industry.

“It could be used for anything from drag racing to sprint cars. It’s also something that will have an impact on hoon driving.”

Ms Micheel said she expected a site to be confirmed before the end of the year. The consortium has held discussions with the State Government and Port Adelaide Enfield council, she said.

“All have received the information with enthusiasm.”

Transport Minister Pat Conlon did not respond to requests for an interview before deadline.

Port Adelaide Enfield mayor Gary Johanson supported the idea. “From a tourism point of view, it’s something that’s missing at the moment what an incredible benefit to the state it would be,” he said.

“This is an opportunity to have a world class facility without any cost to the taxpayer.”

Mr Johanson said if the complex were built at Garden Island, it could replicate the Phillip Island circuit in Victoria.

“When I heard about it, I immediately thought of Garden Island.”