ONE of Ipswich’s greatest tourism drawcards, Willowbank Raceway has received an upgrade worth $11 million unveiled last week.
The Federal Government fully funded the project, with Member for Blair Shayne Neumann unveiling the improvements with Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Education, Senator Anthony Chisholm, at the opening of the 56th Winternationals drag racing championships on Sunday.
The venue is a popular attraction in the Ipswich area and it has long been recognised that the raceway required renovations, with the venue hosting 100,000 spectators and 12,000 race competitors each year.
Some of the new features at the raceway include a new 250-metre racing track, 600-metre braking area, an upgraded track exit and improved drainage to the track and surrounding area.
The 10-month facility and infrastructure upgrade also involved renovating five existing amenities facilities, adding six new multi-function demountable buildings, as well as constructing a new effluent management system.
Track lighting and electrical upgrades were also installed, including two electrical boards, 27 new lighting poles and new track lighting.
The upgrade is set to generate a further $7.86 million in economic activity with ongoing operation, while also having supported 229 direct and indirect jobs during construction.
Assistant Minister Chisholm said the Government was proud to have played a part in making the upgrade to Willowbank Raceway a reality, which will be a welcome boost for the Ipswich community as the Raceway prepares for its 40th anniversary next year.
“These upgrades will ensure the vast number of race competitors and spectators the Willowbank Raceway attracts can safely enjoy the over 100 events that take place each year at the venue,” he said.
Mr Neumann said it was great news that the Australian Government funded upgrade of Willowbank Raceway was completed in time for this month’s 2024 Winternationals and Festival of Horsepower events.
“The Winternationals are the biggest drag racing event in Australia and the largest held outside North America.
“This funding is generating jobs and economic growth for the Ipswich region, and will help the raceway to continue to attract thousands of people to world-class events like this every year.”
