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GOVERNMENT BACKING FOR NEW TOOWOOMBA MOTORSPORT FACILITY

Government backing for new Toowoomba motorsport facility

By Bruce Williams

Government backing for new Toowoomba motorsport facility

Government backing for new Toowoomba motorsport facility

Queensland motorsport has received a major boost with the government backing a new race track and entertainment precinct near Toowoomba.

By RHYS VANDERSYDE

The $175 million plan to develop the Wellcamp Entertainment Precinct which includes the proposed Will Power Centre for Motorsport and Driver Training Excellence near Toowoomba has attracted $40 million in state funding.

Proposed by the Wagner Corporation, the company behind the Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport, the new facility which is planned to begin construction next year will incorporate motorsport, driver-training and 40-000 person performing arts venue.

“The Wagner family will invest with the state and federal governments support in the order of $95 million of our assets and funds into this project,” said John Wagner, Wagner Corporation chairman.

“We are keen to start construction early next year to help kick-start the economy post COVID-19.”

Wellcamp Entertainment Precinct will target both local and international events with the circuit designed by Mark Skaife built to cater for all levels of motorsport up to and including Indycar and Supercars.

“Motorsport desperately needs more permanent venues in this country, and one such as that planned by the Wagner family will bring enormous social, economic and community benefits to the people of the Darling Downs and Queensland in general,” said Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca.

“The circuit design has the potential for the venue to host international and even World Championship motorsport events, something sorely needed in this region.”

“Today’s announcement of a $40 million contribution by the Queensland Government is the largest investment by any government in a permanent racetrack in Australia’s history.”

“The State Government clearly recognises the major economic benefits of motorsport in this country. On behalf of all motorsport lovers we thank the Government for its outstanding support of our sport in the Sunshine state.”

“This heralds a new era for Queensland motorsport and both the Palaszczuk Government and the Wagner family are to be congratulated for this historic announcement.”

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the plan had the potential to revolutionise the economy of Toowoomba and the Darling Downs.

“The Wagner family’s record of delivering world-class projects, especially in this region, is without peer,” said the Premier.

“Their vision, imagination and drive to succeed has turned paddocks into an international airport and trade distribution centre that, with the support of my government, is also home to the Qantas Group Pilot Academy.”

“Now, the Wagners are ready to take Wellcamp to an entirely to new level – a vision that the Palaszczuk Government backs.”

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