SYKES – WINTON REPORT IS A START

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes said that the recommendations of the Winton Raceway Taskforce were a start but that much more needed to be done to ensure a sound development of the Winton Raceway as part of a Regional Economic Development Strategy.

The Victorian Government appointed a taskforce to review the future of Winton Raceway following the loss of the V8 Super Cars event in 2004.

Dr Sykes said “The Minister for Regional Development must take the lead on the recommendations of the Winton Raceway Taskforce and drive the changes otherwise Winton Raceway will stagnate and a great wealth generating asset will continue to be grossly underutilised.”

Dr Sykes continued, “The first requirement is to resolve the significant planning issues surrounding further development of the raceway. I welcome the government’s assistance to develop an action plan. It is also pleasing that the government does not intend to override decisions made by local council on Winton related planning issues.

“In relation to financial support I am disappointed that the government is reluctant to strongly state that it will fund infrastructure development in the event of Winton attracting a significant series of events such as the V8 Super Cars.”

“The government must take a strong position on funding to enable Winton Raceway officials to negotiate with event organisers with confidence.”

Dr Sykes also commented that a review of the future of motor sport in Australia was essential to enable decisions on future investment at Winton to be made on the best available information.

Dr Sykes concluded “The taskforce has identified the major issues of concern to the future development at Winton Raceway. I call on the government to put words into action and for the government to drive implementation of the recommendations of the taskforce.”

“A successful Winton Raceway is a great boost to the economies of Benalla, Wangaratta and surrounding districts.”

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989