Motor sport fans will get to watch the V8 Supercars action on a new-look Barbagallo Raceway, with Sport and Recreation Minister Terry Waldron confirming the $15million redevelopment will be ready for the May event.
Speaking at a media update at the track today, Mr Waldron said this was great news for the many Western Australian fans of what was one of the most closely followed sports in the world.
"Motor sport has a huge following in Western Australia, and the V8 Supercars is without a doubt the biggest Australian racing series, so completion of this development in time for this year's Perth event is a great result," he said.
"To now have an infield pit complex, improved measures for the entire circuit, three-storey media centre with administration, race control and all the other facilities required for this highly technical sport is certainly a great improvement to the raceway.
"The new facilities will make it more efficient for drivers and their crews and more interesting for spectators, but most importantly the improvements will also bring increased safety.
"The new footbridge linking the infield to the outfield will allow the full spectacle of the V8 pit lane experience to be brought to Perth and will also increase accessibility for people with disabilities."
The Minister said benefits of the redevelopment would extend to local motor sport participants. He acknowledged the integral role of the WA Sporting Car Club, which contributed to the planning of the project and also some funds, and construction company Diploma in bringing the works to fruition.
"I can't wait come May to see Barbagallo packed with motor sport enthusiasts watching the Perth round of the 2012 V8 Supercars with these super new facilities," he said.
Fact File
As part of the Barbagallo redevelopment 12,500m³ of topsoil has been removed from the infield and repositioned to elevate spectator embankments; 24,000 tonnes of sand fill, 3,200 tonnes of limestone road base and 55 tonnes of reinforcing steel has been imported and placed; and more than 1,000m of underground conduits laid for power and data communications
The Trading Post Perth Challenge is the fourth race in the 2012 V8 Supercars Championship
WA drivers Garth Tander, Karl Reindler, Dean Fiore and Michael Patrizi will compete with the hometown advantage again in 2012
More details on the event at: http://perth.v8supercars.com.au
Minister's office - 6552 6100
