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MEDIA RELEASE – The announcement of Super Cheap Auto as the new naming rights sponsor for the Bathurst 1000 sets the scene for a new era at Mount Panorama.
“With Stage 2 of the Mount Panorama Redevelopment now at the construction phase giving a facelift to the entrance to the circuit, it is exciting to that there will also be a new face for the circuit’s biggest event of the year,” Bathurst Regional Council Administrator Kath Knowles said.
“The sponsorship from such a reputable Australian retail chain that has its heart in the motor industry is a fitting alliance that I am sure will only strengthen the future of the Great Race.
“With the outstanding success of the 2004 event, it is important that Council continue to complete the project that will further establish Mount Panorama as a world class motor racing venue and year round tourist attraction.
“I welcome the involvement of Super Cheap Auto as they prepare to join a prestigious line-up of big Australian companies who have become an important part of the history-making race that is the Bathurst 1000.”
Mt Panorama Redevelopment Stage 2 background
Bathurst Regional Council will undertake $4.25M in works that will include completion of level 2 corporate suits on the end of the pit complex, removal of the existing pedestrian bridge over pit straight to be replaced by a wider bridge, construction of a vehicle access ramp leading into level 2 of the complex, demolition of the old race centre at the entrance to the circuit and completion of recreation and nature works in McPhillamy Park on the top of the Mountain.
Ms Knowles said improvements in drainage and telecommunications, water connections to all garages and the extension of the pit paddock will improve facilities at our major events.
“But just as importantly, improvements to camping areas, increased amenities and better access to the pit paddock for race punters will give spectators the opportunity to enjoy one of the greatest motor racing venues in the world.
“There was a very positive response to the upgrade from the record number of spectators and participants at the 2004 Bathurst 1000 along with constructive feedback on what continued improvements need to be made.
“Council continues to liaise with the motor racing fraternity and others as we further develop important tourism initiatives and an ongoing future business plan that will capitalise on the international reputation of the world famous circuit.?
Project background – Redevelopment total budget of $24 million- $10 million from Sate Government, $10 Million Commonwealth Government and $4 million Council funds.
– State Government $10 Million announced November 2002
– Federal Government $10 Million announced May 2004
– Construction began in December 2003
-Total Stage 2 $4.45M ($3M Council funds and $1.25 remaining from Stage 1)
Main features completed in Stage 1 – New pit complex approx with 36 bays four times size of old pit bays. Features three phase power, communications, secured back and front, new amenities
– Second level corporate suites with sloped windows, outside viewing areas.
– Third level rooftop additional corporate viewing/hospitality.
– Unique 4 storey race control and admin tower 20 m high
– 400 new campsites created in Pit Paddock
– Upgraded paddock area to provide transporter access directly to the rear of the pits
– New spectator mounds in The Chase, Hell Corner, McPhillamy Park Sulman & Reid Parks and Pit Straight to provide better viewing of the race action.
– Wider pit lane by 3m
The project scope includes future development of: – Provision of all-year round tourist entrance to complex
– Continuing upgrades to the top of the mount to provide year round tourist facilities and new amenities for race goers
– Commencement of preliminary stages of drawcard tourist attraction development on top of mount (will enable involvement by private sector)
– Commencement of preliminary stages of Harris Park and grandstand, function room redevelopment, (will enable involvement by private sector)
Economic Impact of Mount Panorama – TV reception in over 600 million homes annually promotes Australia as a tourist destination in 70 countries.
– Current estimated international visitor nights are 75,000 rising to over 100,000 with the redevelopment of the facilities (DOTARS Mt Panorama Business Plan 2004)
– 2.5 million Australians watch V-8 race and approx. – Motor sport is the 3rd most popular spectator and TV sport in Australia.
– 300,000 people drive the circuit every year and 800,000 bed nights in the region (Tourism NSW).
– Biggest annual (ever year for 51 years) event in regional Australia. Mt Panorama generates:
– around $100 million income to National economy;570 jobs and $23 Million Gross Regional Product in Bathurst 630 jobs and $27 Million GRP to Central West and 810 jobs and $46 Million GRP to NSW (figures from WRI study and prior to redevelopment)