BRISBANE AIRPORT CIRCUIT IN THE WORKS

The Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) is on the lookout for a track and event operator for its exciting new project – the BNE Auto Mall, a racetrack situated just 10km out of Brisbane, next to the city airport.

The 51.3-hectare precinct will contain a two and half kilometre performance circuit which will be able to host a range of motorsport and track experiences.

The venue has been designed by five-time Supercars champion Mark Skaife in conjunction with Motorsport Australia, the FIA and motorsport circuit designers iEDM.

It also contains a dedicated slalom area, manoeuvring course, skid pan and a 4WD experience area. It will also be home to iconic automotive brands and a range of industries including retail, hospitality, entertainment, innovation and education.

The track is scheduled to officially open in 2024, with BAC calling for expressions of interest from businesses with experience in managing entertainment facilities as big as the planned Brisbane venue. The successful party will have exclusive rights to the venue.

BAC CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff is confident that the project will revolutionise the automotive industry in Australia.

“Opening in 2024, BNE Auto Mall is the largest, most visionary, and eagerly anticipated mixed-use development of its kind in Australia, and it will be a game-changer when it comes to the way in which people buy and experience motor vehicles,” Graaff said.

“While aviation is our primary purpose, we have always strongly believed that Brisbane Airport is a destination within itself and so much more than just an airport.

“This landmark automotive precinct is proof of that, as it will provide exponential benefits for Brisbane and for Queensland well into the future.

“I have no doubt that the expansive scope of this Expression of Interest will generate excitement and encourage innovative thinking that will help shape this unique, world-class automotive destination.”

Likewise Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca believes the facility will have a positive impact on motorsport around the nation.

“To have a state-of-the-art facility like this in Brisbane is a significant boost for motorsport in Queensland and Australia,” Arocca said.

“This particular facility will do wonders for grassroots motorsport and for people looking to take their first steps into the sport via track days and other non-speed events.

“The fact that it is so close to the city makes it very accessible for people from all walks of life and I think it’s a wonderful opportunity for an events business looking to expand their brand.

“There are endless opportunities with this precinct, and I am looking forward to seeing it develop, open and support motorsport well into the future.”

Interested businesses looking at running the facility have until Friday 28 January to submit their EOI.

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