Symmons Plains gears up for V8s
Symmons Plains Raceway is undergoing a substantial refursbishment to regain its V8 Supercar round.
Picture: Motorsports Tasmania
Amajor upgrade is underway at Tasmania's Symmons Plains circuit to bring it up to standard ahead of the visit of the V8 Supercar championship in November.
The initial upgrades involve building 32 new permanent garages, the resurfacing of the majority of the track and the rebuilding of the tyre walls and spectator safety fences.
“These improvements will restore Symmons Plains’ reputation as one of Australia’s premier motor racing circuits,” said Tasmania Premier Paul Lennon, who turned the first sod to begin the works.
“They will help secure our rightful place in the national V8 Supercar calendar for many years to come.
“The event will once again bring tremendous exposure for Tasmania as well as providing fantastic entertainment for thousands of our State’s motorsport fans.”
In the longer term, the premier said there were plans to develop function rooms above the garages, allowing for corporate entertainment.
He said the return of the Supercars would be another boost for Tasmania’s tourism industry – a major factor in the State Government’s decision to spend AUS $3 million over five years bringing the series back.
“The Tasmanian economy is expected to receive a AUS $1 million injection from hosting this event, with organisers anticipating around 4,000 visitors,” Mr Lennon said.
“These include event organisers, car crews and support staff, plus around 300 corporate members who follow the circuit.
“The V8 Supercars are Australia’s third-most-watched sporting series behind cricket and the AFL.
“Television coverage now extends beyond the rest of Australia to Europe and China.”
Mr Lennon said many Tasmanian fans would be eager to see Launceston’s own Marcos Ambrose continue his success on home soil.
“Marcos won the national series last year and is leading again this year, so I’ll certainly be cheering for him at Symmons Plains in November,” he said.
Major contractors appointed to the development are Tasmanian firms Fairbrothers and Van Ek Constructions, plus national firm Emoleum.
Discuss this news story in the e-Tracks forums.
