One of the biggest motor sport events in north Queensland's history will be held in Townsville from July 10-12 next year.
Sport Minister Judy Spence, together with Townsville City Council and V8 Supercars Australia, announced the finalised dates for the inaugural V8 Supercar race this weekend.
“I'm pleased representatives from V8 Supercars Australia and the Townsville City Council have decided on a date which will provide the perfect opportunity to visit Townsville during one of the best times of the year,” said Ms Spence.
“I have no doubt visitors from across the country will come to Townsville for this exciting event and take advantage of the warm, sunny weather during the last weekend of winter school holidays.
“The Queensland Government is providing more than $14 Million to help construct the $29.58 million Townsville Reid Park precinct, to be ready for this event in 12months time.
“In addition, we will contribute $2.5 million annually for the first five years of the event to ensure it is a success for Townsville. The Townsville race in the V8 Supercar Championship Series will see race teams bring their headline drivers and cars to North Queensland.
“Securing this event cements Queensland's reputation as a motor racing hub, and we are pleased to be working with the Townsville City Council and V8 Supercars Australia to bring this premier racing series to regional Queensland.”
Member for Townsville Mike Reynolds was keen to point out that the event will bring great economic benefits to the region.
“It is expected to generate $10 million dollars and provide an estimated 130 full-time equivalent jobs during construction and an additional 180 full-time equivalent jobs as a result of staging the event each year,” he added.
“Adding the V8 Supercars series to our already exciting event calendar is a real coupe for the people of Townsville and I look forward to seeing things rev into action next year.”
Townsville Mayor Les Tyrell said he is looking forward to the V8 Supercar Championship Series making its way to Townsville.
"I'm looking forward to the economic benefits this race will bring the city, including an upgraded Reid Park and a multi-use facility," he continued. "It will bring our region some great exposure throughout the world.
