V8 Supercars storm back into Perth

The V8 Supercars have stormed back into Perth with a 'Meet the Drivers' function in the city today kicking off a weekend festival of motorsport.

Sport and Recreation Minister Terry Waldron welcomed the V8 Supercars roadshow back to Perth after a 12 month absence.

The 2011 Trading Post Perth Challenge starts at Barbagallo Raceway tomorrow with practice, followed by the three 50 lap races over Saturday and Sunday.

Speaking at the 'Meet the Drivers' function in Forrest Place today, Mr Waldron said the State Government was proud of its pivotal role in bringing the V8 Supercars back to Western Australia.

"We have invested more than $15million to ensure a round of the V8 Supercars remains here for at least the next five years,' Mr Waldron said.

"West Australians love their motorsport and the V8 Supercars is a world class event, so we just had to get the series back."

V8 Supercars Australia withdrew Perth's 2010 round over concerns about the state of paddock and pit facilities at Barbagallo Raceway.

"The Government has committed more than $10million for capital works to redevelop Barbagallo raceway," Mr Waldron said.

"A lot of planning and consultation work has gone into the proposed upgrade already and works are due to start after this weekend's round."

The V8 Supercars have come back with a bang, bringing the best support program ever seen in Perth including the Auto One V8 Ute Racing Series; Porsche Carrera Cup; Fujitsu V8 Supercar Series (making its Barbagallo Raceway debut); Australian Superbike Championships and the Autobarn Touring Car Masters.

"We are in for a motorsport feast," Mr Waldron said.

"While there is a different, and better, traffic management plan in place for this weekend than the one for the Festival of Speed last year I still urge fans to plan ahead and arrive early.

"And I want to remind fans that their ticket into the V8 Supercars also provides train and bus transport at no extra cost."